What You Need to Know About Post-Consumer Recycled ...

Author: Evelyn

Aug. 12, 2024

What You Need to Know About Post-Consumer Recycled ...

pcr packaging Need to Know About Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Packaging Content

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.  

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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.

What are Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Plastics? 

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.

 

How is PCR Packaging Different from Recyclable and Compostable Packaging?

Though 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. 

The Benefits of PCR Packaging 

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. 

Finding a PCR Packaging Partner

As you examine your company&#;s sustainability goals, consider partnering with a PCR packaging manufacturing. 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. 

What Is PCR Plastic and Why Is It a Good Solution for Sustainable Packaging?

Responsibly sourced, sustainable packaging has been at the heart of our philosophy from the beginning.

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.

What does PCR stand for?

PCR 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).

What is PCR plastic?

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.

How is PCR plastic made?

Plastic waste is collected and colour-absorbed, then shredded into fine granules. These are then melted down and reprocessed into new plastic.

What are the benefits of PCR 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.

Does PCR plastic have disadvantages/limits?

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.

Can PCR plastic be recycled?

Yes, PCR plastic is recyclable depending on how it is used. 

How many times can PCR plastic be recycled?

PCR plastic is a circular material, so it can be recycled after use. You can safely recycle PCR plastic approximately seven-to-nine times.

Is PCR plastic biodegradable?

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.

What is the difference between PCR and other eco-friendly packaging?

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.

Our 100% Recyclable Refill System

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.

For more pcr plastic recycling companyinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

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Our Multi-Protection Mist

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.

 

Why Use PCR?

U.S. Pact&#;s PCR Commitment Statement

Postconsumer recycled content (PCR) or responsibly sourced biobased content use is one of the critical paths to reduce the environmental impact of plastic products and achieve a circular economy in the plastics packaging industry. The U.S. Plastics Pact (U.S. Pact) abides by the ISO definition for PCR, which states that PCR is, &#;material generated by households or by commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities in their role as end-users of the product, which can no longer be used for its intended purpose. This includes returns of material from the distribution chain.&#; 

The U.S. Pact has voluntary PCR usage requirements for all its Activators based on their place in the plastics value chain, with the goal of creating momentum to reach Target 4 of the U.S. Plastics Pact Roadmap of an average of 30% (by weight) postconsumer recycled content in plastic packaging sold within the United States by . The U.S. Pact expects that Activators who already have a publicly stated general recycled content commitment specifically call out PCR commitments instead of or in addition to using the term &#;recycled content.&#; For U.S. Pact Activators who produce and distribute plastic packaging, such as consumer product goods companies (CPGs), retailers, and converters, we expect each to publicly state a commitment to a quantifiable target of PCR that is incorporated into their plastic packaging by . For Activators that are non-plastic packaging producers, such as government entities, nonprofit organizations, and recyclers, we expect that each Activator publish external statements on quantifiable internal PCR procurement. PCR internal procurement includes, but is not limited to, office supplies, trash bags, pallets or bins/totes, and trash and recycling bins. The U.S. Pact also encourages non-packaging Activators to have a public statement supporting the use of PCR to address PCR markets on a larger scale, closing this loop of the circular economy.

post consumer resin,polypropylene recycling,ps recycling,abs plastic recycling,pet plastic recycling,post consumer recycled material,post consumer recycled packaging,Recycled Plastic Manufacturers,Post-Consumer Recycled Plastics is a modern comprehensive enterprise with production and management. Our company is a vigorous and innovatlve enterprise, also has modern management and service awareness, it maintains &#;Quality is the soul and Cerdibility is the life&#; as the purpose of enterprise.

Everything You Need to Know About PCR and PIR ...

In today&#;s environmentally conscious world, it is becoming increasingly important for business owners to put sustainability first. With environmental issues like global warming and deforestation, we are seeing consumers becoming increasingly conscious and selective in their purchasing choices and habits.

As a business owner, one way you can demonstrate this commitment to the environment is through the use of environmentally friendly packaging materials such as PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) and PIR (Post-Industrial Recycled) packaging.

This article will guide you through PCR and PIR packaging materials, covering their differences, examples, and benefits of each type. Read on to learn more!

What is PCR and PIR Packaging?

PCR packaging, or Post-Consumer Recycled packaging, is created from materials that have been used by consumers and then discarded, collected, and recycled. These materials are processed to create new packaging materials for reuse.

PIR packaging, or Post-Industrial Recycled packaging, is made from waste materials generated during the manufacturing process rather than from the consumed product. These materials are collected and recycled to create new packaging materials, reducing waste and promoting a more sustainable production cycle.

Both PCR and PIR packaging materials support a greener supply chain by reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

3 Key Differences between PCR and PIR Packaging?

Although both PCR and PIR packaging materials are eco-friendly, they have some key differences:

  • Availability: PIR materials are more readily available, as they are generated during the manufacturing process, while PCR materials rely on consumer recycling efforts.
  • Material purity: PIR packaging tends to have higher purity levels since it&#;s sourced from a controlled manufacturing environment. PCR packaging may require additional sorting and processing to remove contaminants.
  • Source of materials: PCR packaging is made from post-consumer waste, while PIR packaging is made from post-industrial waste.

Examples of PCR packaging materials

PCR packaging materials are versatile and can be used in many different ways.

Examples of PCR packaging materials include:

  • Recycled paper and cardboard &#; Used for boxes, mailers, and other paper-based packaging.
  • Recycled plastic &#; Used for bottles, containers, and flexible films.
  • Recycled aluminum &#; Used for cans, trays, and foil packaging.

Examples of PIR packaging materials

While PIR packaging materials are not always as versatile as PCR packaging for consumer-level use, they can be very effective for commercial and industrial applications.

Examples of PIR packaging materials include:

  • Industrial scrap paper &#; Used for paperboard, corrugated cardboard, and molded pulp packaging.
  • Industrial scrap plastic &#; Used for injection-molded containers, thermoformed trays, and films.
  • Industrial scrap metal &#; Used for metal cans, caps, and closures.

Benefits of PCR and PIR packaging

Both PCR and PIR packaging materials offer significant benefits for business owners and consumers. Some of the shared benefits include:

  • Reduced environmental impact &#; By using recycled materials, PCR and PIR packaging help conserve natural resources and reduce waste.
  • Lower energy consumption &#; The production of recycled packaging materials requires less energy than virgin materials.
  • Enhanced brand image &#; Showcasing your commitment to sustainability can help differentiate your brand and attract eco-conscious customers.

While these benefits overlap, PCR and PIV packaging also each have some unique advantages over the other type. Unique benefits of PCR packaging include a greater positive impact on waste reduction and the promotion of consumer recycling efforts. PIR packaging, on the other hand, has the advantage of material purity and consistent availability.

How to Purchase PCR and PIR Packaging Materials

Now that you are well-versed in the differences and advantages of PCR and PIR packaging, let&#;s explore how you can acquire them. Finding the right PCR and PIR packaging materials is crucial for both you as a business owner and your customers, especially when it comes to quality control and buyer satisfaction.

Here are 6 key steps to help you find the best recycled packaging materials for your needs:

Assess your packaging requirements &#; Determine the size, shape, strength and functionality needed for your products.

  1. Research suppliers &#; Look for reputable suppliers that offer PCR and PIR packaging materials and prioritize sustainability.
  2. Request samples &#; Obtain samples of packaging materials to get a feel for their quality and suitability for your products.
  3. Compare costs &#; Consider the price differences between PCR and PIR packaging materials and how they fit into your budget. Keep in mind that investing in environmentally responsible packaging can lead to long-term cost savings and boost your brand image.
  4. Verify certifications &#; Ensure that the supplier&#;s materials meet relevant environmental certifications and standards, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for paper products and the Global Recycling Standard (GRS) for plastics.
  5. Customize the packaging &#; Work with your supplier to customize your packaging materials with your brand logo, colors, and messaging to highlight your commitment to sustainability. Customized packaging unlocks other benefits to your business as well!

Purchase Quality Sustainable Packaging with Crownhill Packaging

By understanding the differences between PCR and PIR packaging, exploring examples of each, and identifying the unique benefits they offer, business owners can make informed decisions about the right eco-friendly packaging materials for their needs.

Following the steps outlined in this article will ensure that you purchase the best PCR and PIR packaging materials to support your brand and satisfy your customers&#; growing demand for sustainable products.

If you are looking to purchase sustainable packaging materials you can rely on for your business needs, consider Crownhill Packaging. Proudly serving businesses across North America, Crownhill Packaging is dedicated to delivering innovative, sustainable packaging products at affordable prices. Learn more about our range by getting in touch with us today!

Contact us to discuss your requirements of pcr plastic pros and cons. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

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