Recycle Solutions
We will never stop exploring circular packaging solutions.
ECOSYSTEM
Recycle Solutions: Engineering Packaging for a Circular Economy
At Chic Package, we view recycling not as an end-of-life alternative, but as a fundamental design principle from the very beginning. Our commitment extends beyond creating recyclable packages; we engineer effective recycling pathways that transform used packaging into valuable resources. We achieve this through a scientific, three-pillar approach: Designing for Recyclability, Building Closed-Loop Systems, and Championing Consumer Participation.
1.Design for Recyclability (DfR) — The Foundation of Circularity
The journey to effective recycling begins on the drawing board. We apply rigorous Design for Recyclability (DfR) guidelines to eliminate the common contaminants that disrupt recycling streams.
Mono-Material Innovation:
We prioritize designing packaging from a single polymer type (e.g., full-PET structures) or material family. This simplifies the recycling process, as it avoids the complex separation of mixed materials like multi-layer laminates, which are often non-recyclable.
Compatibility-Driven Material Selection:
Every component—from the main body to inks, adhesives, and labels—is selected for its compatibility with the target recycling stream. We use water-based inks and easily de-bondable adhesives to prevent contamination of the recycled material.
Clear Disassembly & Identification:
We design for easy separation of different components where necessary and label all parts with standardized resin identification codes (RIC) to facilitate automated sorting at Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs).
2.Building Closed-Loop & Advanced Recycling Pathways
We don’t just design packages to be recycled; we actively work to ensure they are recycled by building robust material loops.
Integrating Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Content:
We are experts in sourcing and processing high-quality Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) materials, such as rPET, rPP, and rHDPE. By specifying PCR in your packaging, you directly close the loop, creating demand for recycled materials and reducing reliance on virgin resources.
Technical Collaboration with Recyclers:
We partner directly with recycling facilities and material processors to understand the capabilities and limitations of existing infrastructure. This real-world insight allows us to design packaging that is not only theoretically recyclable but practically and profitably recyclable.
Exploring Advanced (Chemical) Recycling:
For complex packaging that challenges mechanical recycling, we investigate partnerships with advanced recycling technologies. These processes can break down plastics into their molecular building blocks, allowing them to be remade into new, virgin-quality materials, thus creating a truly circular solution.
3.Championing Consumer-Centric Recycling Systems
A perfectly recyclable package is ineffective if it is not correctly disposed of by the end-user. We design for human behavior to drive recycling rates.
Clear & Actionable On-Pack Labeling:
We implement intuitive recycling labels, such as the How2Recycle system, which provides simple, standardized instructions to consumers on how to properly prepare and dispose of each component of the package.
Educational Partnerships & Take-Back Programs:
We collaborate with brands and local organizations to educate consumers on the importance and practice of recycling. For specific projects, we can help design and implement take-back or collection programs to ensure packaging enters the correct waste stream.
Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) for Validation:
We use Lifecycle Assessment to quantitatively compare the environmental impact of different design choices, providing you with data-driven proof that our recycle-optimized designs lead to lower carbon footprints and reduced waste.
Our Promise: From Linear Waste to Circular Resource
Our Recycle Solutions turn your packaging from a single-use item into a link in a continuous cycle. We provide the technical expertise to ensure your packaging supports your brand’s sustainability goals and contributes to a circular economy.
Partner with us to ensure your packaging leaves a positive legacy, not a permanent footprint.
