The ongoing rise in global population and the consequent surge in demand for consumer goods have led to the widespread adoption of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). Its durability, cost-effectiveness, and capacity to preserve the quality of products makes it a preferred choice for manufacturers.
Despite these advantages, the increasing utilization of PET packaging causes significant environmental concerns. As PET waste is typically disposed of in landfills or oceans, and its decomposition can take several decades, causing contamination and pollution.
A report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation has highlighted the concerning fact that out of the 78 million tons of plastic packaging produced annually, only 14% of it is recycled worldwide. This disparity highlights the critical issue of low recycling rates, especially regarding labeling materials. Consequently, addressing sustainability challenges in packaging necessitates advancements in research and development toward recyclable labeling solutions.
At Avery Dennison, we recognize the importance of addressing such sustainability challenges. As a step towards addressing this, we are proud to introduce our latest innovation, CleanFlake™ Technology, which enables recycling for rigid plastic packaging. This revolutionary technology addresses sustainability concerns without compromising the packaging’s performance.
Let us learn more about CleanFlake™ Technology and how it can help your business achieve its sustainability goals.
CleanFlake™ Technology: Enabling Sustainable Recycling of Rigid Plastic Packaging
Multiple technologies exist for recycling rigid plastic packaging, including mechanical and chemical recycling. However, both methods face limitations related to label contamination and high operating costs during recycling, leading to reduced efficiency and accuracy in the recycling process. CleanFlake™ technology has emerged as a promising solution that effectively addresses label contamination in a cost-effective manner.
Primarily designed for rigid plastic packaging, it enables the separation of the label from the plastic during the recycling process, allowing for the production of high-quality recycled materials that can be used to make new packaging products.
In recognition of its effectiveness, the technology has received accolades from respected organizations such as EPBP (European PET Bottle Platform) and APR (Association of Plastic Recyclers) for its ability to facilitate PET recycling. Furthermore, it received recognition from APR and RecyClass for its success in recycling HDPE.
These recognitions highlight the potential of this innovative technology to contribute to a more sustainable economy, reducing waste and promoting responsible use of resources in a variety of sectors.
Analysing the Benefits of CleanFlake™ Technology
CleanFlake™ Technology provides a multitude of benefits to PET packaging, including enhanced recyclability, decreased contamination, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to sustainability regulations and goals. This innovative technology addresses the challenges associated with low recycling rates and promotes a circular economy.
Enhances PET Recycling Efficiency
The low recycling rate of PET containers in the US, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2018, highlights the need for innovative solutions to enhance the recyclability of PET. CleanFlake™ Technology addresses this issue by improving the recycling efficiency of PET packaging.
PET packaging with CleanFlake labels enables efficient recycling by facilitating easy separation of labels from the plastic during the recycling process, enhancing the quality of the recycled materials.
Addresses Contamination in PET Recycling
The issue of contamination from label adhesives and inks during the recycling of PET containers has been a longstanding challenge. CleanFlake™ Technology eliminates this problem by providing a clean separation of the label from the PET container during the recycling process.
Cost Effective Solution for PET Recycling
CleanFlake Technology enables a cost-effective recycling process for PET containers by eliminating the need for extra resources, equipment or processes, such as hot water or steam, that are generally required to remove traditional labels.
Compliance With Regulations and Sustainability Targets
Avery Dennison's CleanFlake™ Technology is an exemplary sustainable solution that facilitates brands in meeting their sustainability targets and regulatory obligations. This technology increases the availability of recycled plastic, reduces waste and supports the sustainable utilization of resources.
We invite you to take the first step towards sustainable packaging with Avery Dennison’s CleanFlake™ Technology. Our innovative solution facilitates efficient and cost-effective recycling while reducing contamination and promoting a circular economy.
To learn more about how CleanFlake™ Technology, you can connect with our experts or visit label.averydennison.com
