News

The Future of Flexible Packaging

-Episode 2

https://www.flexpackmag.com/articles/89602-the-future-of-flexible-packaging

October 5, 2018

 

Waste Management and Recovery for Flexible Packaging

Maximizing value recovery and minimizing environmental impact at the point of package disposal requires a conscious choice by the consumer. The Store Drop-Off Program/Wrap Recycling Action Program allows consumers to recycle flexible packaging that is made from polyethylene (PE). This include items such as grocery bags, newspaper bags, produce bags, bread bags, dry cleaning bags, overwraps for napkins/paper towels/bath tissues, and air pillows used in e-commerce.

How2Recycle package labels provide consumers with instructions on which flexible packaging components can be recycled and how. The program informs consumers about flexible package components that may be dropped off at stores with their plastic grocery bags for recycling.

Materials Recovery for the Future (MRFF) is an industry coalition across the flexible packaging value chain that is engaged in finding solutions for improved recovery of flexible packaging. The MRFF project is an industry initiative committed to advancing auto-sorting of flexible packaging at materials recovery facilities (MRFs) from single-stream waste collection systems, including end-markets for sorted material.
 

Integration with Smart Technology

Advances in technology help solve challenges within the packaging supply chain and encourage positive consumer behavior associated with end-of-life management of flexible packaging. Smart technology, mobile devices, and the growth of the “Internet of Things” will enable printed electronics to be included on packaging to communicate with consumers and educate them on where and how they can recycle flexible packaging.
 

Optimization for e-Commerce

Lack of sustainable e-commerce packaging is increasingly a concern among consumers. Flexible packaging has an opportunity to reduce the amount of material used in e-commerce shipping, optimize shipping space on trucks, and design packaging for easy returns.