Smurfit Westrock proudly announces the launch of its innovative EasySplit Bag-in-Box design, developed specifically to align with the forthcoming requirements of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
The PPWR mandates that all packaging achieves a minimum of 80% recyclability. For Bag-in-Box products, this requires the box and bag to be easily separable, thereby facilitating recycling. When properly separated, each component can be processed in its respective stream, significantly raising the overall recyclability rate to over 90%.
However, if the components are not separated correctly, the entire package is evaluated in the recycling stream of the dominant material, typically cardboard. In such instances, the bag component cannot be recycled, leading to a recyclability rate that can fall below 75%. This percentage could be even lower if the plastic bag negatively impacts the paper recycling process.
In response to this challenge, Smurfit Westrock has developed the patented EasySplit Bag-in-Box design. This design significantly simplifies the separation of the bag and box, enhancing recyclability and ensuring compliance with the upcoming PPWR.
Massimiliano Bianchi, CEO of Smurfit Westrock Bag-in-Box, emphasized the urgency of action, stating that with the European Commission set to decide on the methodology in the next three years, demonstrating viable solutions is imperative.
“Smurfit Westrock is leading the charge in preparing the packaging industry for future regulations by launching our EasySplit Bag-in-Box design,” said Bianchi. “As we continue to educate consumers and stakeholders about the importance of proper recycling practices, Smurfit Westrock remains dedicated to driving positive change and demonstrating environmental stewardship.”
