Packaging the Future Responsibly

While the idea of compostable/biodegradable packaging might sound appealing, it’s not yet a fully reliable or practical solution. Many consumers believe that compostable/biodegradable materials can simply be thrown away in nature and will break down naturally. However, this is not the case. Compostable/Biodegradable packaging still requires specific industrial processes and conditions to decompose properly, which are not always readily available. Under the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) regulations, recyclability is preferred over compostability. Only a few types of packaging shall be industrially compostable, such as sticky labels and permeable tea bags/coffee and beverage bags. These will be processed in bio waste treatment facilities.

At ePac, we are committed to minimising environmental impact and avoiding further pollution. That’s why we focus on offering recyclable packaging. Recyclable materials can be processed within existing infrastructure, ensuring a more sustainable and practical approach to reducing waste and conserving resources. By prioritising recyclability, we support a circular economy and make it easier for consumers to make eco-friendly choices.

In the UK, several recycling symbols are commonly used to indicate recyclability and provide guidance on waste disposal. Here are some key ones:

1. Mobius Loop: Indicates that the item is capable of being recycled. Sometimes, it includes a percentage to denote the recycled content.
2. On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL): Provides clear information on whether the packaging can be recycled or how to dispose of it properly. To use the OPRL symbols you will need to be a member.
3. Plastic Resin Codes: Numbers inside a triangle of arrows (e.g. HDPE 2) that identify the type of plastic for recycling purposes. This can be found on our material specification, attached to your ePac quote.
4. Tidyman: A reminder to dispose of the item responsibly and not to litter.
5. Widely Recycled: Found on packaging that is collected by most local authorities in the UK for recycling.

In the UK, you can usually determine if packaging is recyclable by looking for specific indicators on the packaging itself or by referring to guidance from local authorities. Here’s how:

1. Check for Recycling Symbols: Look for recycling symbols or labels on the packaging. Common symbols include the Mobius Loop (three arrows in a triangle), the Green Dot, and the On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL). These symbols typically indicate that the packaging is recyclable or provide instructions on how to recycle it.
2. Read the Label: Packaging may include information about its recyclability or disposal instructions. Look for phrases like “widely recycled,” “check local recycling,” or “not yet recycled.” Additionally, some products may have specific instructions, such as “rinse before recycling” or “remove labels.”
3. Refer to Local Guidelines: Check with your local council or recycling authority for guidance on what can be recycled in your area. Many councils provide detailed information on their websites or through leaflets about which materials are accepted for recycling and how they should be prepared.
4. Plastic Resin Codes: Look for the resin identification code, usually found within a triangle of arrows, which indicates the type of plastic used in the packaging. Some councils accept certain types of plastics for recycling, so knowing the resin code can be helpful.
5. Use Recycling Apps or Tools: There are apps like Recyclable Now and online tools available that can help you determine if packaging is recyclable. These tools often provide information based on your location and the type of packaging.

By paying attention to these indicators and staying informed about local recycling guidelines, you can make more informed choices about recycling packaging in the UK.

The difference between recyclable material and recycled material lies in their current state and potential for reuse:

1. Recyclable Material: Recyclable material refers to items that can be collected, sorted, and processed into new products through recycling systems. These materials have the potential to be recycled, meaning they can undergo a series of steps to be transformed into new products instead of being disposed of as waste. For example, many types of plastics, paper, glass, and metals are recyclable.
2. Recycled Material: Recycled material, on the other hand, refers to materials that have already been through the recycling process and turned into new products or materials. These are materials that have been collected, sorted, cleaned, processed, and manufactured into new items. For instance, recycled plastic bottles can be transformed into new plastic containers, recycled paper can be used to make new paper products, and recycled glass can be melted down to create new glass bottles.

In summary, recyclable material can potentially be recycled, while recycled material has already undergone the recycling process and been transformed into new products. Recycling is a cyclical process that involves both the collection and processing of recyclable materials and the manufacturing of new products using recycled materials.

PCR material is as recyclable as its virgin stock equivalent.

Flexible packaging made from PCR material, such as recycled plastic films or pouches, can be collected and recycled through specific recycling schemes or facilities depending on the material structure used. However, it’s essential to ensure that the packaging is clean and free from contaminants to maintain the quality of the recycled material.

Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) material, while recyclable, has limitations, particularly in its suitability for certain applications like food packaging. Due to regulatory requirements and safety concerns, PCR material is often not recommended for direct contact with food products. Therefore, ePac doesn’t currently offer packaging made from PCR material for food products to ensure compliance with food safety standards and regulations. However, we will continue to review the options as PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) progresses.

In the UK, the recycling process for packaging involves several key steps:

1. Collection: Recyclable materials are collected from households and businesses through curbside collection programs, recycling centers, and drop-off points.
2. Sorting: At a Material Recovery Facility (MRF), the collected materials are sorted into different types (e.g., plastics, paper, glass, metals) using both manual and automated processes such as conveyor belts, magnets, and optical sorters.
3. Cleaning and Processing: The sorted materials are then cleaned to remove any contaminants. For example, plastics are washed, and labels are removed. After cleaning, the materials are processed into forms that can be used in manufacturing. This can include shredding, melting, or pulping.
4. Manufacturing: The processed materials are sold to manufacturers who use them to produce new products. For instance:
   • Plastics: Recycled plastics can be turned into new packaging, clothing, and construction materials.
   • Paper: Recycled paper is used to produce new paper products, including newspapers, office paper, and cardboard.
5. Distribution: The new products made from recycled materials are then distributed and sold to consumers, completing the recycling loop.
6. End-Use: Consumers purchase and use products made from recycled materials, continuing the cycle of consumption and recycling.

The goal of recycling packaging in the UK is to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, conserve natural resources, save energy, and reduce carbon emissions. Effective recycling relies on proper sorting and contamination-free recycling streams to ensure high-quality materials for manufacturing.