The packaging industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainability as new laws are being implemented to address environmental concerns. President Biden's Executive Order 14081 and the enactment of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws are driving change in the way packaging is produced and managed.
President Biden's Executive Order on Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing
President Biden's Executive Order 14081, signed on September 12, 2022, is a landmark initiative aimed at advancing biotechnology and biomanufacturing for a sustainable American bioeconomy. A key goal of the executive order is to displace 90% of petroleum-based plastics with recyclable-by-design bio-based polymers over the next two decades. This transformative shift in packaging materials is not just crucial for the environment, but also a key step towards achieving global climate goals.
"Executive Order 14081 from President Joe Biden calls for displacing 90% of today’s petroleum-based plastics with recyclable-by-design bio-based polymers over the next 20 years."
EPR Laws for Packaging
In alignment with the broader effort to promote sustainability, several U.S. states have enacted Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws for packaging. These laws hold packaging producers accountable for their environmental impact by requiring them to support recycling and waste management initiatives. Over the next few years, states like Maine, Oregon, Colorado, and California will begin enforcing these EPR laws, which will drive responsible practices in the packaging industry.
Polypack's Contribution
Energy efficiency is a priority for Polypack, with 98% of their Florida facility operating using solar power. The integration of a 1,629-panel rooftop system with a maximum solar array output of 420 Kilowatts showcases their dedication to reducing their carbon footprint.
Polypack's packaging solutions are designed with source reduction in mind. By drastically reducing or eliminating corrugated and film consumption, they significantly impact the amount of packaging waste entering landfills. Their high-efficiency shrink tunnels further demonstrate their commitment to energy conservation.
In their manufacturing process, Polypack utilizes the best stainless steel and recyclable materials available. They adhere to the highest standards to avoid introducing contaminants into the environment, making their machines environmentally friendly from production to end-use.
The Sustainable Solution: Recycled Film
Filmsource Packaging's Recycled Film is a game-changer in packaging. Made entirely from recycled materials with no virgin content, this film reduces the demand for new resources and combats the plastic waste crisis. The production process itself boasts impressive carbon footprint savings of up to 70%, helping to minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
With President Biden's Executive Order providing a roadmap for the transformation of the packaging industry and companies like Polypack leading the way with sustainable practices, we can be hopeful that together, we can build a more environmentally conscious world. The path to a sustainable future starts with small steps, and Polypack's commitment to reducing their carbon footprint is a giant leap in the right direction. Let us all embrace the challenge and work collectively to build a better and more sustainable tomorrow.
Mohan, A. M. (8/4/2023). Biden Order Aims to Replace 90% Fossil-based Plastics with Bio-based Polymers. Pack World. Retrieved from [https://www.packworld.com/news/sustainability/article/22833931/biden-order-seeks-90-biobased-plastics]
Elton, D. (8/4/2023). EPR for Packaging Update. Pack World. Retrieved from [https://www.packworld.com/news/sustainability/article/22833953/ameripens-dan-felton-gives-packaging-epr-update]