What is your view on plastic packaging and bioplastics, and how are you approaching this issue from the association's perspective?
Packaging, regardless of the material—be it plastic, glass, paper, or metal—serves two critical functions: protecting the product and protecting the consumer. For liquids, solids, perishables, or any other type of product, packaging is essential for safe transportation and consumption. Hence, the necessity of packaging is undeniable.
However, packaging also comes with an input and environmental cost , making source reduction a crucial focus for our members. By minimizing the material used in packaging, we not only cut costs but also reduce environmental impact. This is why there is significant emphasis on developing plastic packaging that meets these needs efficiently. Our member companies are committed to advancing sustainability by prioritizing source reduction and optimizing the benefits that plastic packaging offers.
What are the biggest challenges you face when it comes to advancing recycling policies at the state and federal level?
Advancing recycling policies is indeed challenging, given the fragmented nature of recycling systems in the United States. Over the past decade, we have seen significant progress in the industry, moving from a divided stance on recycling to a more unified approach. Initially, there were varying opinions within the CPG sector, with some companies advocating for extended producer responsibility and others viewing recycling as a local issue.
Over time, there has been a convergence of views, recognizing that recycling is a collective responsibility. This shift has led to increased investment from the CPG sector in recycling programs. Our members support policies like extended producer responsibility programs and are actively involved in developing and funding initiatives to boost recycling rates. This collaboration is essential to overcoming the inherent challenges posed by a diverse and complex recycling infrastructure.
How have you seen consumer confusion regarding recycling evolve, and what are your thoughts on consumer awareness in this context?
Consumer confusion regarding recycling has indeed increased, partly due to the variety of packaging types and the lack of standardization in recycling collection programs, their rules and definitions. At the federal level alone, there are numerous definitions of recycling, recyclable, and related terms, making it difficult for consumers to navigate the system.
Our members are committed to addressing this issue by investing in consumer education and simplifying recycling processes. Initiatives like Colorado's and Minnesota’s extended producer responsibility programs demonstrate our efforts to expand access to recycling, utilize technology, and ultimately enhance consumer participation. Bridging the gap between consumer understanding and recycling practices is crucial for achieving higher recycling rates and fostering a circular economy.
How do you balance the need for durable, cost-effective packaging with the push for sustainability?
Balancing durability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability in packaging requires a multifaceted approach. One key aspect is investing in consumer education and making recycling straightforward and accessible. By providing clear instructions and leveraging technology, we can guide consumers towards better recycling habits.
On the technological front, mechanical and molecular or advanced recycling play pivotal roles. Mechanical recycling handles a significant portion of recyclable materials, while molecular or advanced recycling breaks down polymers into their basic building blocks, facilitating true circularity. Additionally, our SmartLabel program uses QR codes to provide consumers with detailed recycling information, further simplifying the process and enhancing participation.
Can you give examples of successful collaborations between your association, policy frameworks, and brands to promote sustainability?
One notable example is our SmartLabel initiative, which involves over a thousand brands and more than 100,000 products. This program leverages digital disclosure tools to provide consumers with consistent, easily accessible information about product ingredients and recycling instructions. Collaborations with state and federal agencies are also critical, as recycling is managed locally in the U.S. We work closely with lawmakers to develop and implement effective extended producer responsibility programs.
Our partnerships extend beyond policy development. We actively participate in the implementation of these programs by serving on the boards of producer responsibility organizations. This hands-on involvement ensures that policies are not only well-designed but also effectively executed, ultimately driving progress towards a more sustainable future.
Can you elaborate on the importance of consumer engagement in achieving true circularity in packaging?
Consumer engagement is vital for achieving true circularity in packaging. Making recycling easy and transparent is essential for fostering consumer participation. Just as clear instructions on food packaging help consumers prepare meals, providing straightforward recycling guidelines can improve recycling rates.
Our SmartLabel program, in partnership with the Recycling Partnership and other solution providers, exemplifies this approach. By scanning a QR code on a package, consumers can access personalized recycling information based on their location. This technology simplifies the complexity of local recycling rules and encourages consumers to participate actively in recycling efforts, bridging the gap between packaging design and end-of-life management.
Can you provide examples of successful collaborations that illustrate the unification of efforts between industry, policy, and consumers?
Our collaboration with the Recycling Partnership and other solution providers on the SmartLabel program is a prime example. This initiative not only involves the private sector but also engages state and federal agencies to create a unified approach to recycling. With over a thousand brands participating, the program demonstrates how industry and policy makers can work together to provide consumers with the information they need to recycle effectively.
Additionally, our involvement in developing and enhancing existing recycling infrastructure showcases our commitment to unifying efforts across different sectors. By working with lawmakers and participating in the governance of these programs, we ensure that policies are practical and impactful, driving progress towards a more sustainable future.
