Pregis highlights trends, insights from SPC Advance and How2Recycle Summit, including new version of NREL’s US Lifecycle Inventory Database, Google’s new playbook for going plastic-free, and alternative fibers taking a backseat to alternative polymers

During an exciting week of activities, Pregis also hosted the Pregis Innovation Headquarters (IQ) Tour + Evening Social, showcasing our commitment to providing customers data-backed packaging solutions rooted in sustainability, innovation and customer experience. The tour showcased Pregis IQ’s protective packaging materials and testing systems, emphasizing packaging optimization and operational efficiency. 

If you couldn’t attend the back-to-back events this fall, don’t worry. We’ve compiled the top takeaways from both SPC Advance and How2Recycle Summit 2024, highlighting the recurring themes and key industry trends that emerged. 

Continued emphasis on collaboration  

In the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging, collaboration is more crucial than ever. Industry stakeholders are recognizing that by aligning on a common goal we can tackle challenges more effectively.  

• A new version of the U.S. Lifecycle Inventory Database has been released, featuring US-specific data, filling a gap in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) accuracy. This free resource provides emissions factors, improving data quality across industries and enabling companies to make informed environmental decisions. Explore it to strengthen your data-driven decision-making.  

• Google has released a playbook aimed at going plastic-free, promoting it as an “open-source approach” to packaging design. This initiative encourages collaboration across the industry, allowing companies to share strategies for reducing plastic usage. 

Alternative fibers took a backseat, alternative polymers took center stage 

This year, keynote speakers spotlighted three startups—Sway, Notpla, and Shellworks—focused on compostable polymers. There is an increasing need for compostable packaging for items that are difficult to recycle due to their small size, contamination, or mixed materials, such as beauty and personal care products. Exploring these innovative materials is essential for addressing these hard-to-recycle formats. 

EPR Stalemate: Navigating Challenges 

The conversation around Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has hit a stalemate. With uncertainty surrounding reporting requirements and fees, the initial momentum has stalled, leaving many in a waiting game.  

Nevertheless, large consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies remain focused on key pillars of EPR, such as source reduction, recycled content, and recyclability. Kraft Heinz, for example, continues commitment to reducing its use of virgin plastics while increasing the use of recycled content. The company emphasizes the importance of collaborating with sourcing partners to enhance the availability of recycled content. 

Building value through perception 

• Creating satisfying recycling rituals can foster brand affinity; when consumers find recycling straightforward, they are more likely to engage positively with the brand. 

• As concerns about greenwashing rise, some companies are choosing to remain silent to avoid accusations, a practice known as greenhushing. This lack of communication can be as damaging as greenwashing, as honest engagement is crucial for building consumer trust. 

• Initiatives such as the redesign of the How2Recycle to the How2Recycle Pro label further exemplify efforts to increase transparency and reduce consumer confusion. Pregis employs the H2R label on various products to align with H2R’s initiatives aimed at enhancing recycling accessibility for consumers, thereby supporting the circular economy. 

• Customers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, value sustainable products and packaging, frequently associating “sustainable” with “easily recyclable.” To align with these expectations, avoid mixing packaging materials and provide clear recycling instructions, like the H2R Pro label. 

Reach out here to learn how Pregis can support your sustainability goals. With our expertise in innovative packaging solutions, we are here to help you navigate the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging and effectively address your toughest business challenges.