High-end packaging finishes without compromising recyclability
We explore how our paper-based products are recycled, and why eco-friendly packaging is so important.
The metallizing process
Our metallizing process deposits a thin aluminum vapor onto paper. The aluminum layer is so thin that it doesn’t change the properties of the paper. Despite the attractive and functional metallized finish of our paper products, they remain a recyclable mono-material.
Why are mono-materials important in packaging?
Mono-materials are made up of a single material. In the case of mono-materialistic packaging, several layers can make up the packaging, although they must all be made from a single material. Many of AR Metallizing’s papers are mono-materials.
Mono-material packaging facilitates recycling because it is easier to sort and reuse. Products which can be recycled support a shift towards a circular economy.
Recycling metallized papers
Today, there is no single national or international standard for paper recycling. Paper mills have widely varying requirements and processing equipment all over the world.
Our metallized paperboards have been tested to ensure they will break down or repulp in nearly every recycling paper mill, whether using neutral pH or de-inking processes.
When our metallized paperboards go through the recycling process, they are broken down before being turned into pulp or ‘slurry’ that can then be made back into paper.
What is recycling?
The way materials break down vary significantly. Some are composable, others are recyclable or biodegradable. Others still don’t fall into any of these categories.
Recycling is the term used when a waste product can be converted into something reusable. The product that’s recycled isn’t necessarily made back into the same product, for example, metallized paper might be recycled into a cardboard box, or a paper bag.
Why is recycling important?
Many countries are setting ambitious recycling targets. The EU bloc requires that 65% of yearly municipal waste be recycled by 2035.
85% of paper and cardboard packaging within the next ten years. Because paper and cardboard recycling infrastructure is already so well set up and efficient in Europe, brands have identified them as ideal packaging materials.
Consumers too, are putting pressure on brands to move to recyclable packaging materials. In a recent survey, some 72% of respondents said that they were purchasing more environmentally friendly products than they would have done five years ago.
