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Many of the world’s leading brands have announced commitments to incorporate more post-consumer resin (PCR) in their packaging within the next 5-10 years. This sentiment is echoed by companies in a variety of industries around the world. Post-consumer resin is one solution to curbing the growing plastic pollution problem and decreasing the depletion of natural resources.
To meet the rising demand for post-consumer resin, the return and recycling of specific types of used, empty plastic packaging by consumers is key. One of the ways Mauser Packaging Solutions addresses the increased need for post-consumer resin and supports the transformation from a linear to a circular packaging industry is through our integrated life cycle management program, which includes collection, reconditioning, recycling and manufacturing of products from PCR materials.
So, what is post-consumer resin, how is it made, and what are the benefits?
What is Post-Consumer Resin (PCR)?
According to the International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) “Plastics Vocabulary” list, post-consumer or post-use material, is defined as “material generated by the end-users of products, that has fulfilled its intended purpose or can no longer be used (including material returned from within the distribution chain).” This differs from post-industrial, or pre-consumer material which is defined as “material diverted during a manufacturing process”.
Post-consumer resin (PCR) includes consumer packaging items such as plastic film, bottles, milk jugs, buckets, and also industrial packaging items such as IBC totes and poly drums. These items can be reprocessed into recycled plastic that’s used to make new products.
How is PCR manufactured at Mauser Packaging Solutions?
When an IBC or plastic drum reaches the end of its usable life and is no longer suitable for reconditioning, the first step in the recycling process is collection through the Mauser Packaging Solutions collection program. Empty containers and used plastic components are then sorted, shredded, ground, washed, dried and repelletized as high-quality post-consumer resin in compliance to ISO 16103:2005 standards. We call this in-house generated PCR “RecoleneTM.”
RecoleneTM, our premium recycled resin, is used to manufacture our own components and packaging, such as the Infinity Series of products. It offers the same benefits of reusability and recyclability as virgin resin and comparable technical performance. In 2019 alone, Mauser Packaging Solutions generated more than 51,000 metric tons of post-consumer resin from empty IBCs and plastic drums returned through our collection program.
What are the benefits using PCR?
Post-consumer resin offers a lower carbon footprint compared to virgin materials. Use of PCR diverts waste from landfills, decreases the consumption of virgin raw materials, and reduces emissions while promoting the circular economy.
How can your company contribute?
If you want to learn more, please visit our website pcr post consumer resin.
With such high demand for recycled materials, collaboration among the supply chain with the packaging manufacturer, filler and end user is extremely important to establish a true circular economy. To learn how you can participate in our global collection program of IBCs, plastic and steel drums, contact us
Both savvy shoppers and consumer packaged goods companies are placing more emphasis on sustainability, reducing waste, and using less energy. As a brand owner, your sustainability goals are more important now than ever, as consumers begin seeking out brands focused on the environment.
When it comes to packaging, it’s no surprise that brands are looking for eco-friendly packaging. While recyclable or compostable packaging are the two most common types of sustainable packaging, there is a third choice gaining traction on the shelf – post consumer recycled (PCR) packaging.
Post-consumer recycled content, often referred to as PCR, is material that is made from the items that consumers recycle every day, like aluminum, cardboard boxes, paper, and plastic bottles. These materials are typically collected by local recycling programs and shipped to recycling facilities to be sorted into bales, based on the material. The bales are then purchased and melted (or ground) into small pellets and molded into new items. The new PCR plastic material can then be used for a variety of finished products, including packaging.
Need it fast? We can help. Rollstock orders can ship in as little as 10 business days after artwork approval. Formed pouches in as little as 15!
Get Your Free Quote NowThough PCR, recyclable, and compostable packaging are all sustainable packaging options, they each differ in the way that they are processed and what they can offer consumers.
PCR packaging is manufactured with film that is made from recycled materials. In general, PCR packaging, such as post consumer recycled plastic, cannot be recycled again since it’s already made from recycled materials. This allows brands to fulfill their sustainability goals, without relying on the consumer to recycle or compost the package after use.
A package is deemed recyclable when the materials can be processed and used again. Once the package enters the recycling stream, it is broken down into raw materials and sold to manufacturers. One potential downside of recyclable packaging is that the benefits are dependent on the consumer actually recycling the package, and knowing where to recycle the package.
Lastly, compostable packaging is packaging that breaks down completely in a compost site and leaves no toxic residue. In order for a plastic to be called compostable, it must biodegrade, or break down into carbon dioxide, water, or biomass at the same rate as cellulose (paper). One potential downside of compostable packaging is that not all consumers have access to industrial composting facilities.
While all eco-friendly packaging options are a step in the right direction for brands looking to be more sustainable, PCR packaging, in particular, has some benefits that are worth discussing.
In general, PCR films are a great packaging option for brands looking for eco-friendly flexible packaging, and can be developed into stand up pouches, lay flat pouches, and rollstock. These films can be used in most industries including confection, coffee, baked goods, snacks, pharmaceuticals, herbal remedies, pet treats, and sports nutrition.
PCR packaging also matches the quality of regular flexible packaging. PCR film can offer the same level of protection, barrier performance, and strength as regular plastic film. You can rest assured knowing that PCR film will still block light, oxygen, and other gases from penetrating the package layer and getting into your product.
Lastly, and quite possibly the most obvious benefit, is that using PCR material can help your company reduce its carbon footprint, lessen its impact on landfills, and meet its overall sustainability goals.
The best part? PCR packaging is a great option for brands who want to offer a sustainable solution for consumers, with no requirements or actions needed on the consumer end, unlike recyclable and compostable packaging.
As you examine your company’s sustainability goals, consider partnering with a PCR packaging manufacturing. At ePac, we offer PCR pouches, rollstock, and lay-flat pouches in varying percentages, for any of your project’s custom flexible packaging needs. Our PCR film is FDA-compliant for direct food contact and can accommodate high-impact, photo-quality graphics. It’s just one of our sustainable flexible packaging services that we deliver for our customers. Ready to get started, or want to learn more? Call us today or request a quote and see how using PCR can help you meet your sustainability goals.
Want more information on recycled abs plastic material? Feel free to contact us.