Flexible packaging offers a low carbon footprint alternative to rigid plastic and glass containers. One truck load of flexible equates to 30 truckloads of rigid. Flexible Packaging also offers additional material savings as able to package more efficiently versus rigid containers. In the end, around 70-80% less plastic than rigid, flexible packaging limits the environmental impact of waste on society.
As an important fact, pouches are mostly used for food packaging. They extend shelf life and eliminate food waste. Food waste is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gases; thus, flexible packaging is an important pillar for a modern world.
There are two main trains of thought for circular economies; Mono Material strategies creating a recycling chain where the package is recycled back into the package and Waste to Value, were as all the different packages are recycled into energy or chemical feedstock. Both strategies are being developed in parallel globally by multiple governments, associations and NGOS, and we support them all.
To follow marketing assets, information and weblinks to show case vision and our efforts.
For Shrink Sleeve sustainability, new resins, materials, and process are aligning for the completion of the circular economy. Currently, PETG & PVC shrink sleeves are not recyclable unless separated and labels removed. New CPET and Polyolefin resins along with new processes are paving the way for total circularity. We work closely with the major material & resin companies to accomplish this goal.
There are two main approaches: washable inks and floatable materials. Each solution offers advantages, our industry works with the Association of Plastic Recyclers (The Association of Plastic Recyclers (plasticsrecycling.org)) to bring these solutions to the market.
In the Miami Technology Center, Karlville is investing to showcase sustainable shrink sleeve solutions with a focus on recycling. From Seamers to Applicators & Tunnels along with QC Equipment, Seaming Solvents & Expertise, Karlville demonstrates the complete vertical solution. Please see first-hand our machines in Miami and learn about the movement toward shrink sleeve sustainability.
Lastly, without demand there is no circularity. The integration of Post-Consumer content back into film is critical to completing the circularity. Far Eastern / Klear Plastic Ventures have developed 30% post-consumer content shrink sleeve films for this purpose. We collaborate as well to showcase this option to the shrink sleeve industry.
To follow some marketing assets, information, and web links to showcase vision and efforts.
