What Is PCR Plastic and Why Is It a Good Solution for Sustainable Packaging?
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What Is PCR Plastic and Why Is It a Good Solution for Sustainable Packaging?
Our dedication to leaving a lighter footprint on our planet means we have an ongoing commitment to sourcing pioneering sustainable packaging materials. Whether it's our signature glass bottles, made from recyclable glass sourced in Germany, or our innovative refill system made from 75% post-consumer material (rHDPE), we work hard to ensure every element of our packaging is sustainable as possible. Join us on our sustainable journey and learn how our PCR plastic and sustainable innovations are kinder for our Earth.
Shop Our Refillable Skincare CollectionPCR stands for Post-Consumer Recycled material or Post-Consumer Resin. These are recycled plastics referred to as rPET (Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate), rPP (Recycled Polypropylene Plastic) and rHDPE (Recycled High-Density Polythene).
PCR plastic is made from recycled plastic that can be widely recycled and then reprocessed into a resin, used to create new packaging. Giving packaging a second life, this process reduces the amount of plastic waste.
Plastic waste is collected and colour-absorbed, then shredded into fine granules. These are then melted down and reprocessed into new plastic.
Many benefits come with using PCR plastic. This type of plastic is less wasteful than new plastic, as a reduced amount of waste is produced and collected, creating less waste in landfills and water sources. PCR plastic also reduces your carbon footprint for a more positive impact on our Earth.
During each recycling process, the materials can begin to lose their substance/quality, which is why there are high-grade recyclates and low-grade recyclates. As well as this, not all PCR plastic can be recycled, depending on its use.
Yes, PCR plastic is recyclable depending on how it is used. At Susanne Kaufmann, all of our PCR packaging is 100% recyclable.
PCR plastic is a circular material, so it can be recycled after use. You can safely recycle PCR plastic approximately seven-to-nine times.
No, PCR plastic is not biodegradable. Biodegradable packaging naturally breaks down into non-toxic component substances once consigned to a compost heap. PCR packaging has already achieved the goal of sustainability before the consumer even purchases it, with no need for further reprocessing.
There are many different eco-friendly packaging options out there, such as recyclable packaging and biodegradable packaging. When looking at recyclable or recycled plastic, recyclable plastic needs to be a 'one material plastic' and not a mixture of different plastics to be considered 100% recyclable. For example, if you have a refill packaging with a cap-closure and this cap is made from another plastic, it would not be considered 100% recyclable. For this reason, we created our unique capless design, reducing the number of plastic materials needed and ensuring the packaging is 100% recyclable. Additionally, our secondary packaging uses 100% recyclable paper.
We recently launched our 100% recyclable refill bottles for our best-selling 250ml cleansing products: Purifying Cleansing Gel, Hair & Body Wash, Invigorating Hair & Body Wash, Hand Soap, Soothing Cleansing Milk and Soothing Toner. Each recyclable refill not only helps reduce landfill waste, but also cuts carbon emissions by 69%. Made from 75% post-consumer material, it is 60% lighter than standard plastic bottles making it our most environmentally friendly packaging ever. We believe that sustainability is a never-ending journey and promise to continue to explore opportunities to reduce our environmental impact in the long run. We are committed to this philosophy and plan to expand our scope by adding more products to our refill system.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website pcr plastic pros and cons.
Our Multi-Protection Mist is made from 100% recycled post-consumer material and is packaged in FSC-certified paper that is fully recyclable. Embracing our commitment to sustainable manufacturing, this is the next step towards even more sustainable product design.
At Susanne Kaufmann, we believe that we all have a part to play in looking after our planet and our sustainable packaging efforts go a long way in helping to reduce carbon emissions and waste. However, when it comes to recycling, we need to create a partnership between you and us. Thank you for joining us on this journey.
Learn more about our sustainable packagingBoth 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.
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