Emerald Packaging has joined the US Flexible Film Initiative (USFFI), marking the first time a flexible packaging manufacturer has become part of the coalition.
The USFFI is a nonprofit industry coalition that brings together industry participants to develop systems for recycling flexible plastic packaging across the US.
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Major consumer goods companies, including Mars, PepsiCo, Nestlé, General Mills, Mondelēz, and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, are already part of the coalition.
The group aims to support material recovery facilities (MRFs) and other recyclers by providing funding to kickstart film and flexible plastic packaging recycling projects.
The initial phase of the initiative will focus on efforts within California.
Emerald Packaging CEO Kevin Kelly commented: “Joining USFFI aligns with Emerald’s belief that circularity is achievable when recyclers can sell the material at a profit.
“Flexible packaging has long been the missing piece in US recycling system. By demonstrating that recyclers will process post-consumer flexible films when it’s economically viable, USFFI is helping to create a system that finally brings flexibles into the circular economy. We hope by proving the concept, that the Circular Action Alliance will direct EPR funds to bridge this critical gap.”
USFFI aims to integrate the collection of flexible films into existing recycling streams, particularly curbside programmes.
This comes as California prepares to enforce new extended producer responsibility requirements under SB 54, which mandate that single-use packaging and plastic food ware be fully recyclable or compostable by 2032.
USFFI executive director Maite Quinn-Richards commented: “USFFI is proud to welcome Emerald Packaging as an associate member.
“We invite other brands, retailers, and packaging converters to join and add their resources and leadership to this effort. Expanding our membership strengthens the funding pool and accelerates market development.”
Last year, Emerald Packaging collaborated with Walmart to produce packaging for potatoes containing 30% post-consumer recycled material.
