IRELAND – Smurfit Westrock has unveiled its innovative EasySplit Bag-in-Box (BiB) design to meet the stringent requirements of the EU’s forthcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
This regulation mandates that all qualifying packaging achieve an 80% recyclability rate.
The EasySplit design simplifies the separation of BiB products into their parts, greatly enhancing their recyclability.
When properly separated, the recyclability rate of BiB products can exceed 90%, significantly surpassing the PPWR’s benchmark.
However, if the bag and box remain attached, the entire package is recycled according to the dominant material, usually cardboard.
In such cases, the plastic bag is not recycled, capping the overall recyclability rate at 75% or lower, particularly if the plastic interferes with the paper recycling process.
Massimiliano Bianchi, CEO of Smurfit Westrock Bag-in-Box, emphasized the urgency of this innovation, “With the European Commission set to finalize the PPWR methodology within the next three years, swift action is essential.
“Smurfit Westrock is leading the industry’s efforts to comply with future regulations by introducing the EasySplit Bag-in-Box.
“We are committed to educating consumers and stakeholders about proper recycling practices, driving positive environmental change, and showcasing our leadership in sustainability.”
Advancing packaging technology and sustainability
The patented EasySplit Bag-in-Box design simplifies material separation, a crucial step in meeting the PPWR’s recyclability criteria.
This innovation highlights Smurfit Westrock’s dedication to sustainability and its proactive approach to regulatory compliance.
In line with its sustainability goals, Smurfit Westrock recently collaborated with Pizza Hut to promote pizza box recycling awareness in Louisville, Kentucky, and the US.
This partnership is part of a broader initiative to improve consumer recycling habits and enhance packaging circularity.
Research by Smurfit Westrock confirms that pizza boxes, even those with grease, can be recycled when local facilities support the process.
With 75% of the U.S. population having access to pizza box recycling, the campaign educates customers about the recyclability of these boxes made from corrugated cardboard containing at least 35% recycled content.
Pizza Hut actively engages in consumer education and partners with advocacy groups to inform local governments about the recyclability of pizza boxes.
Given that over three billion pizza boxes are used annually in the U.S., such collaborations are vital for promoting sustainable packaging practices and reducing waste.
Through these efforts, Smurfit Westrock continues to lead in sustainable packaging, driving innovation and encouraging responsible consumer behavior.
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