A study report on recyclability of multi-layered aseptic packaging

The report aims to benefit brand owners and recyclers to appreciate the technical processes, possibilities and financial returns on recycling multi-layered packaging, consisting of both paper and foil. The report touches upon multi-layered aseptic packaging, its market size, the current stage of recycling and challenges in collection and segregation.

It says that as a circular and sustainable solution, based on the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, paper/foil-based multilayer packaged (MLP) cartons have a lower carbon footprint compared to alternative packaging solutions.

According to The Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment, aseptic packaging is predominantly made from renewable material (75% on average). The volume of aseptic packaging on the market is almost equal to the volume of packaging waste due to the short life cycle of many consumer products.

There were more than 188 billion aseptic packaging waste produced in 2016, and the number is still increasing. A report published on Aseptic Packaging Market Size and Forecast corroborated that global aseptic packaging market size was valued at USD 66.48 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 152.65 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.02% from 2022 to 2030.

The report peeks into the detailed view of functional attributes of aseptic packaging materials. It also talks about the challenges in recycling multi-layered aseptic packaging, and how we overcome them. It says that an essential cog in the recycling wheel is the demand for quality products at low price and value chain for all stakeholders involved in the collection of recyclable materials. Due to the multilayer structure of PCBCs it is commonly assumed that they cannot be easily and economically recycled.

The report then explains conventional recycling methods for multi-layered aseptic packaging and challenges. These methods include compression moulding of PCBC, hydro-pulping recycling technology, and filtration and separation.

The report highlights the importance of enzymatic recycling of multi-layered aseptic packaging and benefits, and characteristics of the recycled pulp. The report aims to bring in verticals such as achieving circularity, brand owners perspective and the recyclers into single perspective.