SunDance continues to expand our sustainable material options. One of the latest additions is a version of our most popular material, MET PET, which contains 36% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content.

Compostable and curbside recyclable pouch materials are great, but there isn’t a food-safe barrier material in those categories on the market yet so they aren’t suitable for every product. Using materials with PCR content can help your company reduce its carbon footprint and meet your sustainability goals without sacrificing barrier performance.

What is PCR?

Manufacturers make post-consumer recycled material from items consumers have already used by consumers, such as plastic bottles or packaging. Recycling programs collect these, process them, and remanufacture them into new resin. Instead of relying solely on virgin plastic derived from fossil fuels, PCR gives existing materials a second life.

Benefits of PCR Flexible Packaging

1. Reduces reliance on virgin plastic
By incorporating PCR content into pouch structures, brands reduce the demand for new petroleum-based materials. This helps conserve natural resources and lowers the overall carbon footprint of packaging production.

2. Supports a circular economy
Using PCR helps close the loop. Instead of entering a landfill, recyclers reprocess materials and reintroduce them into the supply chain. This keeps valuable resources in use longer and supports recycling infrastructure.

3. Meets consumer expectations
Today’s consumers are paying attention to packaging. Many actively seek out brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility. PCR content provides a tangible sustainability story brands can communicate directly on the package, enhancing brand credibility and trust.

4. Helps achieve sustainability goals
Many retailers and CPG brands have public commitments to increase recycled content in their packaging. PCR films offer a practical pathway to meet those benchmarks while maintaining the necessary barriers for the products.

5. Performance and versatility
PCR materials can be incorporated into multi-layer pouch structures with barrier properties suited for food, beverage, pet food, nutraceutical, and household products. With proper formulation PCR films offer the same strength, sealability, and printability as traditional materials.

6. Compatible with broader sustainable strategies
PCR pairs well with other responsible packaging initiatives such as downgauging, mono-material structures for recyclability, and PFAS-free production environments.

Incorporating PCR into pouches and flexible packaging doesn’t require brands to compromise on quality or shelf appeal. It offers a meaningful way to align packaging decisions with environmental values while still offering a safe barrier for food and other products. For brands ready to take the next step in sustainable packaging, PCR materials offer a practical but impactful place to start. Contact us today to discuss your company’s needs.