Henkel incorporates 30% PCR in laundry detergent packaging, enhancing sustainability

GERMANY – Henkel has advanced its sustainability efforts by introducing laundry detergent packaging incorporating 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content.

This innovation, developed in partnership with Korozo Group and Ecoplast, aligns with the European Union’s upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, which sets ambitious goals for the circular economy.

Ecoplast, a member of the Borealis Group, supplied the PCR content used in Henkel’s new packaging.

Their low-density polyethylene (LDPE) recycled materials are certified by ISCC Plus and EuCertPlast, ensuring the recycled content can be tracked throughout the value chain.

The packaging was produced using Borcycle CWT100VL, a grade known for its low gel level, which enhances printing quality and maintains the necessary mechanical properties for product safety.

Korozo Group extruded the packaging into mono-material films, which were then printed and converted into pouches using high-end production lines.

Henkel has already applied this packaging to its popular laundry detergent brand Persil, and the new solution is now available in Central Eastern Europe.

This shift comes as the EU prepares to implement regulations requiring at least 35% PCR content in recyclable plastic films by 2030. The new rules will also mandate that all packaging sold in the EU market be fully recyclable.

“We’re proud to contribute our expertise in flexible packaging to create this circular solution,” said Fatih Imre, Technical Account Manager at Korozo Group.

“Collaboration across the value chain is crucial to delivering sustainable packaging solutions that meet industry regulations and consumer demand for more eco-friendly products.”

Industry recognition for sustainable innovation

Korozo’s contribution to sustainable packaging has earned the company recognition, including the PAGÇEV Plastics Recycling Award for its work on Henkel’s packaging project.

Korozo has also been nominated for the Crescents and Stars for Packaging Competition 2024, a prestigious event organized by the Turkish Packaging Manufacturers Association.

“This recognition highlights our commitment to innovation and sustainability,” said Selin Bahar Mesulam, Director of Korozo Group’s Non-Food Flexibles Unit.

“We appreciate the collaboration with Henkel and Borealis and the hard work of our team, which made this achievement possible.”

Future collaboration and expansion

Henkel, Korozo, and Borealis will present the results of their collaboration at the Sustainability in Packaging Europe conference, held from October 8 to 10, 2024, in Barcelona. This event will showcase their innovations and explore the next steps in sustainable packaging solutions.

Henkel has been a leader in integrating PCR into its packaging, previously collaborating with Korozo on a stand-up pouch for its Somat Excellent dishwashing product.

Henkel has also introduced 100% recycled plastic bottles for its Pril Limited Edition dishwashing liquid and 80% recycled PET trays for its WC FRISCH Kraft Aktiv Pro Nature Pack toilet fresheners.

This move aligns with broader industry trends, as other major companies like Unilever also incorporate recycled materials into their packaging to meet regulatory requirements and consumer demand for sustainability.

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