Catalytic Microwave Depolymerization technology converts sorted post-consumer polystyrene packaging, even if it has color additives and food residue, into monomers that can then be used to produce virgin resin.
Compared to conventional thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), the new products leave a lower carbon footprint and help close the carbon cycle; unlike many bio-based materials, they do not compete with food production.
The EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive Proposal mandates a reduction in the consumption of PET trays, a circular packaging product with a high amount of recycled content.
Loop Industries (Montréal, QC) developed an innovative method to depolymerize PET and upcycle high-purity waste from feedstocks such as polyester fibers from carpets and clothing and colored, opaque and even ocean plastics.
Two-thirds (66%) of Americans agree that “if a product is not easy/convenient for me to recycle, I probably would not recycle it,” according to a Harris Poll conducted on behalf of the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (Washington, DC).
Mondelez (East Hanover, NJ) announced a new commitment to make all packaging recyclable and provide recycling information by 2025 as part of the company’s strategy for a circular packaging economy.
