The following actions, individually or collectively, will contribute to achieving the outcomes of improved recyclability and actual recycling of rigid PET packaging. These actions are largely based on the current set of Golden Design Rules.
Available Courses of Action
- Action 1 – Apply GDR #1: Increase Recycling Value in PET
- Action 2 – Apply GDR#2: Remove problematic elements from packaging
- Action 3 – Apply GDR#5: Increase recycling value in PET trays
Action 1 – Apply Golden Design Rule (GDR) # 1: Increase Recycling Value in PET
In choosing to apply Golden Design Rule (GDR) #1 – Increase Recycling Value in PET – the change in packaging design, composition or construction is primarily achieved thru one of more of the following:
- Use transparent and uncoloured PET, or transparent blue or green PET
- Ensure material choice, adhesive choice and size of sleeve or label is not problematic for recycling
The following use case(s) provide examples of where GDR#1 has been demonstrated for rigid PET packaging.
Use Cases
| Use Case | Innovation | Application | Release to Market |
| Coca Cola | Clear PET | Carbonated and non carbonated beverage | 2022 |
Action 2 – Apply GDR#2: Remove problematic elements from packaging
Unfortunately, there are many scenarios where the use of problematic elements can render otherwise recyclable packaging incompatible with current and emerging recycling systems. Although the bulk of a package’s composition may be recyclable (i.e., mono-material PET construction), problematic elements such as enclosures, handles or other components may hinder recyclability. This is due in large part to the use of non-recyclable elements which in many cases cannot be easily separated from recyclable elements. Removal of these problematic elements can result in more recyclable forms of packaging.
The following use case(s) provide examples of where GDR#2 has been demonstrated for rigid PET packaging.
Use Cases
TBC
Action 3 – Apply Golden Design Rule (GDR) # 5: Increase Recycling Value in PET Trays
In choosing to apply Golden Design Rule (GDR) #5 – Increase Recycling Value in PET Trays – the change in packaging design, composition or construction is primarily achieved thru one of more of the following:
- Use transparent and uncoloured PET, or transparent blue or green PET
- Ensure material choice, adhesive choice and size of sleeve or label is not problematic for recycling
- Use only mono-material PET
- Use minimal or moderate direct printing
- Ensure material choice and adhesive choice of lidding films, inserts or other components is not problematic for recycling
The following use case(s) provide examples of where GDR#5 has been demonstrated for rigid PET packaging.
Use Cases
TBC
Supporting Resources
Useful resources to consider as you explore applying one or more of the above actions to rigid PET packaging includes:
General Information
Guiding Documentation
- Canada Plastics Pact GDR for Canada Guide
- Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR) Design Recognition Program
Industry Training