7 effective ways to improve packaging recyclability

Concerns about climate change and protecting the environment are on the rise, and that means recycling and waste separation are more important than ever. It’s not just a personal issue, businesses like producers, distributors, and manufacturers also need to step up. Products now have to meet environmental standards and live up to the expectations of eco-conscious customers.

As we explained in our Butterfly Diagram post, recycling should always be the last choice for any product, only desirable at the definitive end of its life. But the reality is citizens care deeply about the recyclability of anything that enters their homes.

In response to these concerns, the European Union has been enforcing legislation in order to ensure recyclability as a priority for producers and distributors. And packaging is one of the main issues. After all, almost everything we buy is contained, protected, or delivered inside some form of packaging.

Why not all packaging gets recycled: Sorting and recyclability

Not everything is recyclable, but the reason is often more practical than technological. From a scientific point of view, almost any material can be recycled. However, since space and resources for recycling plants are limited, only the most common ones are recycled on a large scale. It wouldn’t be cost-effective or energy-efficent to recycle absolutely everything.

Similarly, recyclability is limited by sorting. Components must be identifiable and separable by the machinery (or, in some cases, by human workers) at the recycling facility. For packaging to be recyclable in practice (not just in theory) it must be designed with recycling systems and limitations in mind. This includes material selection, separation potential, and even labeling.

So, taking all this into account, how can you make your packaging more recyclable?

1. Design for easy disassembly

Ensure your packaging can be easily taken apart. This makes it easier to separate and shred during the recycling process.

2. Favor easy recycling materials

Remember what we said about common materials and recycling facilities? Try to design packaging with materials accepted by recycling systems across countries. Paper, cardboard, PET, and certain HDPE plastics are strong choices.

3. Avoid carbon black plastics

Black plastic, especially when dyed with carbon black, is difficult to recycle. This dye absorbs almost all light, making most black-colored plastics indetectable by the near-infrared polymer sensor used at recycling facilities. Opt for lighter colors or carbon-free dyes to improve detectability.

4. Use mono-materials

Avoid mixing materials. Packaging made of a single material (like all-paper or all-PE) streamlines recycling and increases recovery rates.

5. Incorporate recycled & recyclable materials

Where possible, use recycled materials that can also be recycled again. This reduces environmental impact and supports circularity.

6. Reduce excess packaging

Lightweight, minimalist packaging not only saves on shipping and materials, it also makes the recycling process more efficient. Remember that the ideal recycling process would involve plants that, when processing a city’s waste, have minimal work to do.

7. Instruction to consumers

Do your customers know what to do with your packaging? Inform them! Let them know how and where to dispose of it. Some European countries now require labelling to explain how to recycle packaging and, even when it isn’t required, it can be extremely helpful.

Eco-Friendly packaging builds brand trust

Consumers are taking sustainability into account when they make purchases, so keeping this in mind is not only important from a compliance or environmental perspective but also adds value to your brand.

Offering eco-friendly, recyclable packaging signals your commitment to sustainability, helping you build credibility and brand loyalty. Studies show that customers are more likely to support businesses that align with their values, particularly when it comes to environmental impact. Transparent communication about recyclability, materials used, and instructions for disposal can significantly influence purchasing decisions. Furthermore, recyclable packaging helps companies meet EU regulatory standards, reduce waste, and minimize their carbon footprint, all while enhancing their reputation in an increasingly competitive, green-driven market.

If you need more help in making your company and products more sustainable, don’t hesitate to contact us!

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