Pack2TheLoop

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The project focuses on the development of quality-assured recycled materials from post-consumer packaging for reuse as packaging (closed-loop value chain). Specifically, the project involves processing polypropylene and high-density polyethylene hollow containers, as well as polypropylene and polystyrene cups, within the Austrian value chain.

Research Areas

Sustainability and Environment

Research Center

Research Center Sustainability Assessment and Packaging Solutions

Department

Applied Life Sciences

The European Union's Circular Economy Package is calling for a turnaround in the plastics industry: by 2030, 55% of all plastic packaging in EU member states is to be recycled. This project aims to contribute to the development of quality-assured recyclates from post-consumer materials and thus to the elaboration of a closed-loop system for packaging materials. The first step in the project is an inventory of waste generation. In detail, hollow bodies made of polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as well as cups made of polypropylene and polystyrene (PS) will be dealt with in the Austrian value chain. With the help of these use cases, mechanical recycling tests will be carried out and the recyclates will be examined for contaminants. Based on the tests, Design4Recycling recommendations will be derived.

Research Goals

Development of quality-assured recyclates from dimensionally stable post-consumer packaging
Demonstration of a closed loop using cups and hollow containers
Further development of the ‘Design for Recycling’ criteria
Establishment of ‘Design from Recycling’ as an evidence-based key to future-proof and recyclable packaging