Smart Planet Technologies, Inc. has announced that select paperboard grades with EarthCoating® have successfully completed recyclability and repulpability testing at Georgia Tech’s Institute of Paper Science and Technology in Atlanta. EarthCoating is a mineralized barrier coating containing less plastic than traditional 100% PE coating that is also said to provide superior performance metrics and environmental advantages.
Traditionally, barrier packaging materials used in forming hot/cold cups, ice cream containers, and folding cartons coated with 100% PE or similar materials are poor candidates for recycling and are often destined for the landfill, says Smart Planet. However, the company notes, EarthCoating, when used with select paperboard grades, can be commercially recycled as light and heavy print virgin bleached board cuttings, providing significant economic and environmental gains. The solution is also said to provide great potential for the post-consumer recycling of barrier-coated packaging.
EarthCoating technology offers a recyclable solution for the approximately 2 million tons of 100% PE-coated board products produced in the U.S. annually, says Smart Planet. Recycling collection pilots are being planned by the company such that specific packages can be labeled recyclable, subject to FTC Green Guide stipulations.
