Tetra Pak is announcing several strategic investments designed to level up the recycling capacity for carton packages in the European Union (EU). The move supports the goals of the proposed EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), by ensuring that all packaging components are recycled and valuable raw materials are kept in circulation for longer, therefore showcasing the pivotal role of recycling in the green transition of the food packaging sector. In 2023, Tetra Pak invested nearly €40 million3 to accelerate beverage carton recycling worldwide and plans to increase this even further over the coming years to achieve greater material circularity. The recent initiatives and investments are set to boost the EU’s ability to recycle beverage cartons, including the non-fibre protective layers of polyethylene and aluminium, known as ‘polyAl’. This will be achieved by either unlocking new collaborations or by strengthening the capabilities of established recyclers to turn all materials from post-consumer cartons into new high-quality resources and goods.

Sonoco announced it has been awarded the How2Recycle®’s (H2R) “Check Locally Recyclable” status for its paper-bottom EcoSeal™ rigid paper container. This marks an exciting milestone as the Company continues to make strides in creating more sustainable packaging. The EcoSeal paperboard container joins Sonoco’s growing EnviroSense™ family of sustainable packaging. To meet our internal EnviroSense standards, Sonoco considers multiple attributes related to sustainability. The EcoSeal paperboard container is recyclable, uses recycled content, meets responsible fiber sourcing guidelines, and includes bio-based material. As shoppers grow increasingly aware of their environmental impact, they’re looking for natural and sustainable products and packaging. According to Mintel, close to 40% of consumers agree how ethical, environmentally friendly and socially responsible a product is often influences their product choice.

Robert Glowinski, President and CEO, AWC: “We support clean air and realistic, science-based air quality standards. However, a further restriction is not justified because the health effects evidence for ozone has not changed significantly since EPA last tightened the ozone NAAQS in 2008. In fact, EPA just published the 2008 Ozone Implementation rule earlier this month, seven years after it set the new standard. So before EPA again changes the rules, the 2008 standard should first be fully implemented by the states and its impacts assessed before the goal posts are moved once more.” Donna Harman, President and CEO, AF&PA: “The costs of further tightening the standard are significant when there is such scientific uncertainty. EPA’s own cost benefit analysis would make the ozone rule one of the most expensive air regulations ever. The proposed revisions could place most of the country in nonattainment, putting five times more paper and wood product mills at risk.”