CCL Label, a leading producer of labels and packaging solutions, has extended its award-winning low density, floatable polyolefin (PO) shrink sleeve to provide a sustainable alternative for existing materials harmful to recycling.
Reinhard Streit, VP and Managing Director Food & Beverage at CCL Label, states, “We are proud to offer an extended range of floatable shrink sleeves that can be used in established PET, HDPE, and PP waste streams. Our customers, both local and multinational brands, now have multiple options, including a high shrink version, a thinner version, and a white version suitable for light-sensitive products such as dairy, vitamins, and supplements.”
Implementing eco-design or design for recycling is crucial to facilitate more mechanical recycling of post-consumer packaging. Many sleeve labels in the market today hinder PET recycling and are highlighted by organizations like the Association of Plastic Recyclers, which has established a comprehensive Design Guideline.
Marika Knorr, Head of Sustainability and Communication at CCL Label, explains, “EcoFloat sleeves made from low density material are an ideal alternative. These sleeves automatically separate from PET flakes during the sink/float process at recyclers, floating to the top of the washing tank while the heavier PET flakes sink to the bottom. This density separation results in very clean PET flakes that can be recycled into new bottles, closing the loop.”
High Shrink Version – for more versatile bottle shapes
Aaron Henneger, Sales Director North America at CCL Label, notes, “In recent years, brand owners have favored more complex bottle shapes. To accommodate this, we have introduced a new high shrink version with a shrink rate exceeding 70 percent, making it suitable for even challenging bottle shapes.”
45 Micron Thin Version – for material efficiency
While the standard EcoFloat sleeve is 50 microns, a thinner 45 micron version is now available. This thinner sleeve material is ideal for various bottle and container shapes, offering benefits like efficient material usage and a reduced carbon footprint.
EcoFloat WHITE – protection for light-sensitive products
“EcoFloat WHITE is a groundbreaking technology that enhances recyclability for dairy packaging and other light-sensitive products. Shifting from opaque white bottles to clear PET bottles with an EcoFloat WHITE shrink sleeve can increase the amount of clear PET reclaimed for bottle-to-bottle recycling. This shift provides product protection while supporting a functional product decoration,” explains Henneger.
