Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) has developed a tool to help manufacturers test the recyclability of their fibre-based packaging marketed in the United States. Launched in October 2023, the ReMA Fiber Recycling Readiness Tool is already being used by several manufacturers and brands, ranging from large corporations to small and mid-sized companies, collectively generating nearly $1 trillion in total revenue.   

R. Keerthana spoke to Bret Biggers, senior economist, ReMA, and Natalie Betts, AVP of sustainability, ReMA, to understand more about the tool and its benefits. 

As fibre-based packaging such as paper, paperboard, and corrugated boxes increase on retail shelves across the U.S., ReMA developed the tool to help manufacturers of all sizes design smarter packaging  in categories such as food and beverage, personal care, and electronics that can be more easily recycled in the country. It brought together brands and package developers that use fibre packaging to work with recyclers to develop the tool. 

The Tool is a research-based approach for users to assess the extent to which fibre-based packaging is compatible with the current U.S. residential recycling system and does not pose known challenges for that system. It incorporates all stages in the recycling process from packaging design to end-use markets. Users will receive the results in writing including additional information and/or recommendations if any. The scoring methodology has been developed based on results of several empirical studies including the 2021 ReMA Paper Recyclability MRF (Materials Recovery Facility) Survey conducted by Moore & Associates on behalf of ReMA. 

Explaining the objective behind the development of the tool, Biggers said that it’s a free resource, designed to assist brands, packaging companies and packaging engineers gain confidence that their fibre-based packaging will likely flow through the current U.S. residential recycling system. “Manufacturers can model their packaging to see if it will pass through the recycling system, which ultimately helps reduce contamination and improve the quality of recycled materials.” 

Betts elaborated on the benefits of using the tool during the design phase. By integrating the tool from the initial stages of design, manufacturers can make informed adjustments to improve recyclability. Even after finalising a design, the tool provides valuable insights for potential improvements, promoting a continuous cycle of enhancement. “Our goal is to integrate this tool into the entire design process to ensure more packaging is recyclable.” 

The tool offers a comprehensive list of contaminants to avoid and suggests best practices for creating recyclable packaging. Biggers also highlighted the necessity of balancing innovation with compatibility with existing recycling systems. 

Speaking about the increasing demand for fibre-based packaging, Betts said that the trend is driven by a combination of factors including consumer perception, regulatory pressures, and the inherent benefits of fibre-based packaging. “Consumers generally perceive fibre packaging as recyclable and sustainable, which motivates manufacturers to adopt it more widely,” she added. 

This growing demand significantly impacts the recycled paper market in the U.S., said Biggers adding that the paper industry is proactively incorporating recycled content, often exceeding legislative requirements. “Many products already contain higher percentages of recycled content than mandated by law. This demand is further supported by new mills and facilities dedicated to processing recycled materials,” he said. 

Moreover, using recycled paper reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with broader climate goals. While upcoming regulations might impact the market, current demand is primarily driven by these consumer and environmental factors, according to Betts. 

Speaking about regulations, Biggers explained that certain states have enacted Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws affecting packaging. These laws, set to take effect in 2025, will require manufacturers to ensure their packaging is recyclable and may push for higher recycled content. 

Creating awareness about the tool is a priority for ReMa. They actively present the tool at conferences and industry events, where they conduct workshops and discussions. Additionally, they encourage feedback from users and continuously update the tool based on current recycling infrastructure and technology. Importantly, the tool will remain free to use. By making the tool accessible, they aim to support better packaging design and improve recycling outcomes across the industry.