The 4evergreen alliance has released version 2 of its Circularity by Design Guideline, with new guidance on how to design beverage packaging that is recyclable from the start. Following months of expert-led research and discussions, the new recommendations cover fibre-based composite packaging types and inform designers on their compatibility with specialised recycling processes.
From coffee cups to juice and milk cartons, designers now have a reliable, industry-backed reference to make the best recyclability choices for these types of packaging. It is a major step forward in reaching the goal of providing a holistic, practical and comprehensive tool for the industry to use in all fibre-based packaging design.
Packaging recyclability starts with good design. Producers and designers are constantly innovating to develop functional and sustainable packaging solutions. 4evergreen experts work intensely to enable that innovation with clear recommendations on the best materials and processes for recyclable products.
The first version of the Circularity by Design Guideline, published in March 2022, provides recommendations for the standard recycling process through comprehensive design tables for each product group.
Released recently, Version 2 of the Circularity by Design Guideline further enhances those recommendations with new guidance on design choices for used beverage cartons (UBC) and packaging of similar composition.
“We are delighted to have finalised this second version of the guideline. It is the result of a meticulous screening of existing knowledge and in-depth expert research and discussions across the entire value chain. That’s what makes our guideline special. We now have a functional and holistic document where designers can find reliable recommendations to ensure fibre-based packaging is designed with circularity in mind,” says Hans Wortman, Chairman, 4evergreen alliance.
The next step will be the publication, in 2024, of the final version of the guideline, including design recommendations focused on floatation deinking mills and specialised mills for fibre-based composite packaging (FBCP).