Advancing PET Thermoform Recycling
Advancing PET Thermoform Recycling
Breaking Barriers: Advancing PET Thermoform Recycling Through Collaboration and Innovation
A comprehensive study reveals solutions to overcome recycling challenges for PET thermoform packaging like clamshells, cups, and deli containers.
Thermoformed PET packaging plays a vital role in foodservice but poses unique recycling challenges. The recently concluded PET Thermoform Cost and Material Flow Analysis, led by Resource Recycling Systems (RRS) in partnership with the Foodservice Packaging Institute (FPI) and industry stakeholders, explores these barriers and offers actionable insights into improving recovery pathways and reclamation processes.
Understanding the Problem
Recycling thermoformed PET isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Although PET is widely recyclable, current systems were designed to process PET bottles rather than thermoforms. The study found that while mixed PET bales containing thermoforms can meet market specifications, yield loss during processing remains a significant obstacle.
“Our trials demonstrated that as thermoform content increased in PET bottle bales, yield loss also grew. Segregation or process adjustments are essential to unlock the full potential of PET thermoform.”
— Katy Ricchi, RRS consulting engineer
Key Findings
The study, conducted in two phases, delved into the presence of PET thermoforms in recycling streams and evaluated potential solutions.
Key insights include:
PET thermoforms can be effectively sorted in MRF environments.
Current reclamation processes struggle with yield loss when thermoforms are present.
Segregating thermoforms at MRFs or reclaimers could enhance recovery but entails different cost implications.
“The research from this study is instrumental in our shared goal of solving PET thermoform recycling and building a better recycling system. Together with our partners, The Recycling Partnership will continue to unlock improvements to PET thermoform circularity throughout the recycling system, and we invite the PET community to join us in these data-driven pursuits.”
- Adam Gendell, Director of Material Advancement at The Recycling Partnership
Solutions and Pathways Forward
The report outlines a multifaceted approach to improve PET thermoform recycling:
Segregation at MRFs or Reclaimers: Creating PET thermoform-specific bales.
Process Adjustments: Upgrading reclamation facilities to handle thermoforms more efficiently.
Collaborative Investments: Industry-wide funding to support these innovations.
Collaborating for Impact
The success of this study was made possible through partnerships with organizations like APR, The Recycling Partnership, and leading brands such as Driscoll's and Danone, along with many other key stakeholders. By leveraging diverse expertise and resources, this initiative sets a precedent for tackling other recycling challenges.
A Call to Action
The PET Thermoform Cost and Material Flow Analysis underscores the importance of targeted investments and collaborative solutions. By addressing current barriers, stakeholders can drive meaningful progress toward a circular economy for PET thermoforms.