When we think of packaging, most of us picture boxes, bottles, or pouches that we throw away after use. But have you ever wondered what happens to this packaging once it leaves our hands? Behind the scenes, a lot of effort goes into making packaging recyclable and giving it a second life. Let’s take a closer look at how recyclability in packaging works and why it matters.
Why Recyclability Matters
The world produces a massive amount of packaging waste every day. Globally, only 9% of Plastic Waste is recycled. Whereas, India produces 3.4 Million TPA of Plastic Waste and only 30% of it is recycled. Which means 70% of Plastic Waste is not recycled in India and ends up in landfills causing environmental and health hazards. It’s an alarming situation and that’s exactly where the bigger problem lies.
Recyclable packaging helps solve this problem by turning used materials into new products, reducing the need for fresh resources. It also cuts down on pollution and energy use.
Designing for Recycling
One of the biggest shifts in recent years is the focus on designing packaging that is easier to recycle. Companies are now choosing materials that can be processed easily by recycling facilities. For example, mono-material packaging (made from just one type of plastic) is gaining popularity because it is simpler to recycle than multi-layer packaging.
Jupiter Laminators, a trusted name in the flexible packaging industry, is actively contributing to this shift by developing recycle-ready laminate structures. By focusing on materials that meet both performance and sustainability goals, the brand is helping set new standards for recyclable packaging.
Inks, adhesives and labels are also being rethought. These elements might seem small, but they can affect how well a package is recycled. Today, many packaging manufacturers, including Jupiter Laminators, use water-based inks and eco-friendly adhesives to support recycling efforts.
Sorting and Processing
Once packaging is thrown away, it goes through a series of steps before it can be recycled. It starts with collection and sorting. Machines and workers at recycling facilities separate packaging by type, plastic, paper, metal, or glass. New technologies like AI and sensors are being used to improve this process.
After sorting, materials are cleaned and broken down into raw forms. Plastics may be melted into pellets, paper pulped and metals melted. These materials are then sent to factories to be reused in making new products.
Challenges Behind the Scenes
Despite progress, there are still challenges. Not all areas have good recycling systems in place. Also, not all types of packaging are recyclable yet. Contamination, when packaging is mixed with food or other waste, can also stop materials from being reused.
But the good news is that innovation continues. Companies are investing in better recycling technologies and using more recycled content in their packaging. Governments and brands are also promoting awareness to help people recycle better.
The Road Ahead
Recyclability in packaging is not just about what we throw into the bin, it’s about thoughtful design, smart materials, and advanced recycling systems. While a lot of this work happens behind the scenes, its impact is huge. As consumers, choosing recyclable packaging and disposing of it responsibly helps support this hidden but important effort.
At Jupiter Laminators, our recycle-ready packaging solutions are designed to protect your product and the planet. Join hands with us to reduce waste, support circularity and move towards a greener tomorrow, without compromising on quality or performance. Choose Jupiter Laminators. Choose packaging that’s ready for the future.