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PolyCycle Innovation, LLC will exhibit its latest post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic solutions at PACK EXPO International 2024 in Chicago November 3-6, 2024. As the demand for sustainable packaging grows, PolyCycle offers a suite of PCR options that help companies reduce their reliance on virgin plastics while meeting industry and regulatory standards. Attendees can visit Closure Systems International (CSI) at Booth S-3430 to learn more about PolyCycle PCR resin.
Advancing Sustainable Packaging with PCR
PolyCycle’s key offering is mechanically recycled PCR, available in HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) and PP (Polypropylene). The company provides bulk resin that can be used in the manufacturing of closures with up to 100% PCR content. PolyCycle is also extending its product line beyond caps and closures, concentrating on innovations in the plastic converting industry for food and beverage packaging. Both PCR resins are compliant for food contact, offering a sustainable alternative suitable for a range of packaging applications.
Market Drivers for PCR Adoption
A growing number of factors are pushing companies to reduce virgin resin consumption in favor of PCR, including legislative changes and shifting consumer preferences:
- Regulatory Pressure: Ten U.S. states have introduced legislation to reduce virgin resin use, and five states have passed laws. For example, Oregon's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law will take effect in July 2025, requiring companies to increase the recycled content in their packaging to avoid fines.
- Consumer Demand: Consumers increasingly prefer sustainable packaging, with many willing to pay more for products that align with their environmental values. Brands using PCR can meet this demand while improving their sustainability profile.
- Environmental Impact: PCR manufacturing requires less energy and water than virgin resin production, which can help improve a company’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) scores.
"Brands are realizing that adopting PCR materials isn't just a compliance strategy—it’s a key differentiator," said Grey Moore, Vice President, Commercial, PolyCycle Innovation, LLC. "Consumers want sustainability, and regulatory bodies are pushing for it. Incorporating PolyCycle PCR allows brands to meet those needs while maintaining high-performance packaging solutions."
PolyCycle’s Value Proposition
PolyCycle Innovation's extensive expertise in PCR makes it an ideal partner for brands looking to achieve sustainability goals and integrate PCR into their packaging processes without compromising quality or brand identity. Several key advantages include:
- Color Sorting and Matching: PolyCycle ensures that PCR materials meet brand color specifications, helping companies maintain consistent packaging aesthetics.
- Organoleptic Testing: PolyCycle resin, when used with closures, consistently meets or exceeds all performance requirements including taste, odor, ESCR, dimensional stability, and CO² retention.
- FDA Compliant: PolyCycle resin holds an FDA Letter of No Objection for direct food and beverage contact in PP and HDPE.
- Increased Capacity: By January 2025, PolyCycle will have additional mechanically recycled resin capacity to meet the growing demand for PCR solutions.
Industry Partnerships and Certifications
PolyCycle’s commitment to quality and sustainability is reinforced through its partnerships with key industry organizations:
- Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR): PolyCycle Innovation, LLC works with APR to support and promote plastic recycling standards.
- U.S. Plastics Pact Activator: As a U.S. Plastics Pact Activator, PolyCycle Innovation, LLC collaborates with other industry leaders to reduce plastic waste and increase the amount of recycled content in packaging.
- GreenCircle Certified: PolyCycle’s PCR products undergo third-party audits, ensuring that its environmental claims are accurate.
- ISCC+ Certification: PolyCycle Innovation, LLC’s PCR products are on track to receive ISCC+ certification by the end of 2024, which will provide brands with an additional level of verification of the sustainability of its recycled materials.
PACK EXPO International 2024
PolyCycle Innovation, LLC invites PACK EXPO attendees to visit CSI Booth S-3430 to learn how PCR solutions can support sustainability goals while maintaining packaging performance. The PolyCycle team will be available to discuss how companies can reduce their reliance on virgin plastics and meet regulatory requirements through integrating PCR materials.
