More and more consumer products companies are looking to develop packaging that is truly more Sustainable. 

            However, they are finding that some of what were thought of as the most promising opportunities are in fact very problematic:  “biodegradable,” “compostable,” “bio-based” and even some of the “recyclable” products have performance drawbacks as well as advertising claims that are being found to be difficult to substantiate.  And now, with new FTC guidelines as well as some larger retailers setting their own guidelines, sustainability claims are going to be scrutinized with stricter requirements.

            One material that avoids these issues is 100% post consumer recycled Polyester (RPET) packaging.  It’s a technically a more difficult material to produce but when done well has the most to offer of any eco friendly alternative.

            Integrated Packaging Films, Inc. (IPF) of Canada is currently producing such a material.  Manufactured 100% from reclaimed water, juice, soda and sports drink bottles the high clarity thermo form film has FDA approval for food contact and can be used for a wide range of food and non-food applications.   This roll stock is being marketed under the ECO-THERM tm brand name. 

            Working with thermoform packaging suppliers and end users producing packaging in-house they have been able to supply material allowing for the manufacturing of high quality packages at prices the same as or less than the traditional materials being replaced (PVC, APET,OPS, HIPS, PETG, post industrial RPET).  A wide range of successful applications at CPG companies have shown that packages made from this material are structurally and visually equal to those made from virgin material.