Emerald Packaging joins the U.S. Flexible Film Initiative to help build a circular system for recycling flexible plastic packaging in the U.S., aiming to bridge the gap between recycling costs and profitability.
Emerald Packaging, a leading provider of flexible plastic packaging, has joined the U.S. Flexible Film Initiative (USFFI), marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future for the packaging industry. This coalition is focused on developing a circular system for recycling flexible plastic packaging, which has long faced challenges due to its complex recycling processes.
Emerald Packaging is the first flexible packaging manufacturer to join the initiative, becoming an associate member in a group that includes major consumer companies like Mars, PepsiCo, and Nestlé. The USFFI aims to enhance recycling programs by providing funding to material recovery facilities (MRFs) to make the recycling of flexible plastics more economically viable.
Flexible packaging, such as bags, wraps, and pouches, is a rapidly growing segment in the plastics industry. However, its recycling rate has remained low due to the lack of effective systems for processing these materials. USFFI aims to change that by supporting infrastructure improvements and ensuring recyclers can process postconsumer flexible films profitably, which is crucial for moving toward a circular economy.
Emerald Packaging’s participation in the initiative aligns with its commitment to sustainability, particularly as California implements its Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program under Senate Bill 54. This bill mandates that all single-use packaging must be recyclable or compostable by 2032. By joining USFFI, Emerald is playing a pivotal role in ensuring that flexible packaging becomes a key part of the recycling system and circular economy.
Emerald’s CEO, Kevin Kelly, stated, “Joining USFFI aligns with our belief that circularity is achievable when recyclers can sell the material at a profit. Flexible packaging has long been the missing piece in the U.S. recycling system, and we’re proud to be part of the solution.”
As the initiative expands, it will continue to offer funding for recycling efforts and work to create reliable markets for flexible materials, especially as California enforces its new laws under S.B. 54. Emerald’s involvement sets a strong example for other packaging manufacturers to follow in order to contribute to the recycling economy and reduce environmental impact.
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