Recyclable packaging are an important step towards a sustainable future. Yet practice shows that far from all recyclable materials are actually reused. In this blog, we explore why this is so, and what we can do about it. With a look to the future and European regulations (PPWR), we offer a practical guide for companies, designers and consumers who want to make sustainable choices.
What does 'recyclable' actually mean? A clear explanation
The concept recyclable packaging sounds simple: packaging you can recycle. But in practice, there is more to it than that. 'Recyclable' means that a material can technically be reused, provided it is properly separated, collected and processed into a suitable recycling stream.
In reality, many materials labelled as 'recyclable' are still incinerated or landfilled. This is due to factors such as pollution, lack of collection infrastructure, or the presence of composite materials (such as plastic-laminate on cardboard).
Important to remember: recyclable does not automatically mean it is actually recycled.
The role of recyclable materials in the circular economy
Recyclable materials are essential within the circular economy, where raw materials stay in the chain for as long as possible. Think of materials such as PET, monoplastics, glass, aluminium and certain types of paper that can be efficiently collected and reused.
Yet not every 'recyclable' material is equal. Some plastics are technically recyclable, but are not accepted in existing systems because of contamination, colour or mixing with other substances.
For a circular approach, three things are crucial:
- Design for recycling: packaging should be designed with recycling in mind.
- Clear sorting instructions: consumers need to know what belongs where.
A strong market for recyclate: the reused material must be of sufficient quality to be reused.
Why don't some recyclable packaging get recycled anyway?
There are several reasons why recyclable packaging is not recycled. We explain the main ones:
- Poor sorting
Many consumers do not know exactly what belongs in which waste stream. As a result, recyclable packaging ends up in residual waste. - Contamination of material
Food waste or other contamination can make packaging unsuitable for recycling. - Composite materials
Multi-layer packaging (e.g. cardboard with plastic) is difficult to separate. - Lack of infrastructure
Not every country or region has access to advanced recycling facilities, so some materials simply do not get processed. - No economic incentive
If new material is cheaper than recyclate, less will be recycled.
The future of recyclable packaging: design as key
The key to increased recyclability lies in design. Design for recycling is becoming an essential part of packaging development. This means:
- Using monomaterials instead of combinations.
- Avoid dark plastics that are difficult to detect.
- Easily removable labels or caps.
- Adapting smaller packaging to the technical requirements of sorting lines.
Companies are increasingly encouraged - and in some cases required - to design their packaging so that it actually can be recycled within existing systems.
PPWR: European legislation changing the norm
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is the new European regulation that is revolutionising packaging. This regulation, aims to:
- Reducing packaging waste.
- Increasing reusable and recyclable packaging.
- Creating a level playing field within Europe.
Specifically, what does this mean for recyclable packaging?
- Packaging must be demonstrably recyclable.
- Producers become responsible for the end-of-life stage of their products (extended producer responsibility).
- There will be strict requirements for the minimum amount of recyclate in new packaging.
PPWR is thus actively steering towards a future in which only truly recyclable materials are used.
How do you recognise truly recyclable packaging as a consumer?
As a consumer, it is sometimes difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff. Here are practical tips to help you choose more consciously:
- Check the material: glass, paper, PET and aluminium are easy to recycle.
- Look at symbols: note the möbius symbol ♻ with a numerical code - this indicates which material it is.
- Feel the packaging: feels like a mix (e.g. cardboard that feels smooth), then it's probably a combination.
- Use apps: apps such as Recycle Manager or Waste separation pointers can help with proper disposal.
By choosing and sorting more consciously, you increase the chances of your packaging actually being recycled.
The role of packaging specialists: how PurePack contributes to real progress
The transition to recyclable packaging requires expertise, chain cooperation and practical solutions. This is where the role of a packaging specialist like PurePack evident.
Why PurePack makes a difference:
- Choosing materials with vision: PurePack works exclusively with recyclable materials that are also recycled in practice - think mono-materials, degradable packaging or circular plastics.
- Design for recycling: PurePack advises brands on how to get their packaging designed in such a way that it passes better through sorting and recycling systems.
- Always up-to-date with regulations: Whether it is the PPWR or national rules, PurePack translates the complexity of legislation into clear solutions.
- Chain knowledge: From production to collection - PurePack understands the entire packaging process.
Working with PurePack means:
- Less time spent researching.
- Greater certainty of compliance with future legislation.
- A partner that translates sustainability into concrete packaging solutions that work for your brand and the planet.
Concrete steps towards a circular packaging strategy (together with PurePack)
Want to make the switch to truly sustainable packaging as a business? Here is a practical step-by-step plan that PurePack can walk you through:
- Packaging scan
PurePack analyses your current packaging line and assesses where optimisation is possible in terms of material, design and recyclability. - Design and material advice
Together, we develop packaging based on mono-materials or innovative recyclable materials, tailored to your product and brand experience. - Consumer Communications
Good recycling starts with the user. We help develop clear, attractive sorting instructions and packaging labels.
Pilot & production supervision
From prototype to production, PurePack supervises the entire process and liaises with producers and printers to achieve the best possible result.
Conclusion: The future of packaging lies in true circularity: designing with recycling in mind, transparency about materials, and regulations such as the PPWR which ensures acceleration and a level playing field.
Recyclable materials play a key role in this, but only if they are actually brought back into the chain. This requires better designs, smart choices and cooperation between designers, producers, policymakers and consumers.
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