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NOVA Chemicals Launches New Recycled Polyethylene Grades

In a significant milestone for sustainable packaging, NOVA Chemicals Corporation has announced the commercial launch of two new grades of recycled polyethylene (rPE), designated as SYNDIGO rPE-IN3 and rPE-IN4. This move is part of the company's broader commitment to enhance eco-friendly options throughout North America. These innovative rPE grades are specifically tailored for general non-food applications, making them suitable for an array of products, including can liners, protective packaging, and more.

A Green Step Forward

NOVA's SYNDIGO portfolio is designed entirely from 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, ensuring that the production process is as sustainable as possible. The production of these new polyethylene grades occurs at the SYNDIGO1 facility located in Connersville, Indiana, which specializes in mechanically recycling polyethylene films. The rPE-IN3 grade utilizes recycled PE stretch films, while rPE-IN4 employs recycled mixed retail films sourced from distribution centers and retail stores.

Alan Schrob, the Director of Mechanical Recycling at NOVA Chemicals, highlighted the successful testing these grades underwent in collaboration with various customers prior to their commercial release. He noted, "These new SYNDIGO grades have been testing tremendously with our customers over the last several months, and we are excited to make them widely available in commercial quantities. Our SYNDIGO1 facility shows that film to film recycling is very real, and we are thrilled to deliver against our customer's expectations around quality, consistency, and scale."

Enhancing Product Range

The latest additions to the SYNDIGO suite are not only about innovation; they also reflect the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Existing products in the SYNDIGO lineup include a white rLLDPE resin and a high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) resin that caters to both food and non-food applications. Looking ahead, NOVA Chemicals plans to expand its offerings by introducing a 100% recycled LLDPE option suitable for food contact applications later in 2026.

This commitment to sustainability is part of a larger trend within the plastic industry to find alternatives to virgin plastic materials. By integrating mechanically recycled content into both rigid and flexible packaging formats—such as pouches and bottles—NOVA Chemicals addresses the environmental impact of plastic waste, thereby fostering a more circular economy.

Upcoming Industry Events

NOVA Chemicals will showcase its innovative recycled polyethylene grades at the 2026 Plastics Recycling Conference scheduled from February 23-26 in San Diego, California. The company will be exhibiting at Booth #403 alongside Bob's Grocery Store and NOVA Circular Solutions at Booth #502. Anna Rajkovic, an expert from NOVA, will also take part in a panel discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities facing recyclers on February 24.

A Leader in Sustainable Practices

As a company, NOVA Chemicals is committed to reshaping how plastics are designed and recycled. Their efforts aim to make the resale of high-quality polyethylene solutions not just a reality but also the first choice for manufacturers. With investments in advanced mechanical recycling processes and strong partnerships across the value chain, NOVA strives to meet and exceed industry standards and consumer expectations.

Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and employs approximately 2,600 people worldwide. NOVA Chemicals continues to lead the charge in sustainable practices, driven by innovation and responsible business operations.