Collaborative Efforts to Enhance Plastics Recyclability

This document is a report detailing the collaboration between Co-op, Coveris, and Eastman aimed at enhancing the recyclability of plastics within the food packaging sector. The initiative focuses on utilizing innovative materials, specifically the Eastobond copolyester, to produce fully recyclable mono-APET trays for food packaging. The document outlines the importance of reducing plastic waste and the role of sustainable packaging in supporting the circular economy. It highlights the challenges faced by food trays historically requiring complex lamination, and explains how the transition to mono-material packaging can simplify recycling processes. The report emphasizes the collaboration's potential to increase recyclability ratios and reduce costs associated with packaging materials. It further discusses regulatory compliance with European standards for food contact materials and the importance of industry collaboration in achieving sustainability goals. The document concludes by recognizing the effort and expertise contributed by each partner in this initiative to improve packaging recyclability.