The Dow Chemical Company is introducing a new member of its recently launched RecycleReady™ Technology, which enables the recyclability of polyethylene-based barrier packaging as part of existing grocery store drop-off recycling programs.
Created through collaboration with the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) and other industry members, Dow’s RecycleReady Technology helps converters create barrier pouches that answer consumer demand for more recyclable packaging options. The new advanced barrier technology enables the recycling of packaging for products like granola and nuts, which was not possible before in flexible packaging.
The stand-up pouch made with RETAIN™ polymer modifiers is the first package of its kind with barrier film that can be recycled in a PE recycling stream. When combined with other PE resins, the RETAIN compatibilizer offers a recyclable solution with enhanced barrier characteristics.
According to Dow, with the introduction of RecycleReady, converters will have the ability to produce recyclable packaging with ingredients that ensure barrier protection, along with stiffness, toughness, and sealability of the package. These recyclable flexible pouches incorporate multiple layers, but use only PE as the basic raw material.
RecycleReady Technology in North America has been approved by the SPC’s How2Recycle program to use the Store Drop-Off label. Plastic film, wrap, and bags carrying the Store Drop-Off label can be recycled at participating local retail and grocery stores. Says Dow, the technology aims to divert packaging waste from landfill or incineration, increase post-consumer recycling yields, and aid the creation of a circular economy for plastics packaging.
