The flexible packaging industry is increasingly adopting mono-materials and other recyclable solutions to improve the sustainability of flexible packaging. This shift is largely driven by full value chain consortiums, which aim to make recycling more economically viable for recyclers. By producing a more homogeneous recycled output, the value of recycled materials increases, which in turn encourages the recycling of flexible packaging.
While some pouches are marketed as ‘recyclable,’ they often aren’t accepted in kerbside recycling programs. This is due to limited collection by recyclers, even though these pouches can technically be recycled. As a result, consumers must take them to large store drop-off points or participate in specialist recycling schemes like Terracycle.
The industry has continuously innovated, making these mono-material structures more versatile and suitable for a wide range of products. However, the success of these efforts now hinges on government support. The government has introduced taxes on plastic importers and manufacturers to fund the necessary recycling infrastructure. These investments are crucial for scaling up the recycling of flexible packaging and achieving broader sustainability goals, as well as the development of regulations to ensure that businesses are adhering to sustainable practices.
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Pouches designed for recyclability are typically made from mono-materials, consisting of a single type of plastic, usually polyethylene (PE). Common mono-material constructions include MDO PE/PE, BOPE/PE, and HDPE/PE, each offering different qualities. These pouches are often identified by the recycling logo featuring the number 4, indicating they are made from LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene). In contrast, mixed-material pouches are marked with the number 7, as governed by Resin Identification Codes (RICs).
The industry has seen continuous innovation, making these mono-material structures more versatile and suitable for a wide range of products. However, the success of these efforts depends heavily on government support. The introduction of taxes on plastic importers and manufacturers aims to fund the necessary recycling infrastructure. These investments are crucial for scaling up the recycling of flexible packaging, achieving sustainability goals, and ensuring businesses adhere to sustainable practices.
The implemention of kerbside recycling regulations has been delayed due to ongoing discussions between the packaging industry and Defra. These discussions focus on aligning definitions for multi-laminates within the Simpler Recycling framework and ensuring consistency with the upcoming packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) regulations. It is understood from industry experts that pEPR funds will now be allocated to local authorities to pay for more collections, not for wider recycling infrastructure as originally anticipated. While a conclusion was expected by now, we are still awaiting the final outcome.
Although progress may seem slow, significant strides are being made to advance kerbside recycling in the UK. The Simpler Recycling Scheme, launched in 2021, is leading efforts to improve recycling rates for flexible packaging such as pouches. Currently, the scheme is being trialed in seven local authorities, with plans for nationwide rollout by 2027. Additionally, two more local authorities are expected to join the scheme in 2024.
According to an interim report, the UK market sees 215 billion items of flexible plastic packaging, totaling 895,000 tonnes, placed on the market annually. However, less than 15% of waste collection authorities currently collect flexible plastic packaging (FPP), and those that do often offer limited services. The ongoing project aims to help industry and government understand how to effectively implement a flexible plastic packaging collection service across diverse collection systems, population densities, and socio-demographics.
While there is excitement around the development of mono-material pouches for their recyclability, many brands continue to favor paper-based pouches for their perceived environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal.
Currently, kraft pouches with less than 15% plastic are considered 'kerbside recyclable' by OPRL. Pouches with higher plastic content can still be recycled at large supermarkets or store drop-off points along with other forms of multilaminate flexible packaging such as crisps packets and microwaveable bags. The 15% plastic content limit for kerbside recycling of mixed paper/plastic pouches is currently under review with the Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI), with an anticipated reduction to 10% in the near future.
At SPS Pouches, we’re dedicated to keeping you informed about the latest innovations in packaging design. We understand the importance to your business of maintaining packaging quality whilst you transition to eco-friendly alternatives. That’s why we’ve invested in developing industry-leading recyclable pouches that meet the highest standards of sustainability and performance.
We share your commitment to sustainability and are here to support you with the latest industry insights and government regulations. Connect with us today and take the next step in your journey toward a more sustainable future.
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