Mondi makes recyclable pouch
Mondi Group has developed a fully-recyclable polypropylene construction for thermoforming applications with a 23% reduction in carbon footprint compared to existing packaging.
The new, coextruded material includes a top and bottom web, with an internal barrier layer that comprises less than 5% of the entire structure, meaning it qualifies as a mono-material construction and is fully recyclable in existing waste streams. The Aachen, German-based Institut cyclos-HTP –– the Institute for Recyclability and Product Responsibility –– has independently certified that both the top and bottom webs of this construction have the highest qualification “Class AAA” in recyclability.
The previous multi-material construction rendered the previous packages unrecyclable and also resulted in a much higher carbon footprint as confirmed by life cycle analyses.
“We’re delighted to report that this innovative new film reduces the package’s carbon footprint by 23% compared to existing conventional structures,” said Günter Leitner, managing director of Mondi Styria, the Austrian plant that produces this film.
Thomas Kahl, project manager EcoSolutions for Mondi Consumer Packaging, said: “Mondi’s view is that packaging should always be fit-for-purpose –– paper where possible, plastic when useful –– and sustainable by design. The challenge with this project was to maintain the functionality that is key to such applications, including excellent oxygen and moisture barriers, and high puncture resistance –– while also enhancing the package’s recyclability. The latter factor was vital as Mondi continues to support the principles of a circular economy.”
