Amcor's AmFiber™ Performance Paper Paves Way for Recycling in Brazil

Introduction

Amcor, a leading global packaging solutions provider, has made significant strides in the sustainability of packaging with its AmFiber™ Performance Paper. Recent trials conducted in Brazil have confirmed that this innovative material is indeed recyclable through the country's mixed-paper recycling streams. This achievement not only highlights Amcor's commitment to creating responsible packaging solutions but also aims to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of recycling in Brazil.

The Importance of Recycling in Brazil

Brazil has made considerable progress in paper recycling, boasting a current rate of 66.9%, according to the Indústria Brasileira de Árvores (IBÁ). With such a robust recycling landscape, Amcor posed an intriguing question: could shifting more of its packaging lineup to AmFiber™ Performance Paper improve recyclability and impact the recycling stream positively?

To explore this question, Amcor collaborated with independent consultancy MAPA S.A. and local recyclers to assess the performance of AmFiber™ within Brazil's existing recycling infrastructures. The results of this initiative have been promising, demonstrating that AmFiber™ not only meets essential recyclability standards but also integrates seamlessly into the mixed-paper recycling stream.

Testing and Results

The comprehensive study embarked on by Amcor included extensive market research on the paper recycling landscape in Brazil. It involved identifying the constraints and volumes associated with various types of paper and conducting laboratory tests to evaluate how AmFiber™ interacts with existing systems during recycling processes.

The testing encompassed a series of hands-on assessments that gauged the behavior of the material during critical stages such as sorting, pulping, and processing. Marcus Fattor, the Project Director from MAPA.SA Consultoria e Análises Socioambientais, expressed satisfaction with the project, emphasizing that verifying the practical recyclability of this solution was a significant milestone.

Local recyclers echoed these sentiments. Joel Odorizzi, responsible for Development and Quality at Alto Vale Celulose Indústria, Comércio e Representação de Papel Ltda, reported a seamless experience with recycling the AmFiber™ material, stating that there were no complications encountered during the desegregation phase. This affirmation validates Amcor's efforts to scale recycling within current systems while adhering to critical parameters like packaging pigment levels.

A Commitment to Sustainability

The successful demonstration of AmFiber™ Performance Paper's recyclability reinforces Amcor's dedication to sustainable packaging solutions, thereby supporting the larger goal of fostering a circular economy. Reducing the environmental footprint of packaging is crucial for protecting the planet's resources. Marcelo Queiroz, Vice President and General Manager of Amcor Flexibles Brazil, accentuated that packaging not only serves a functional role in product presentation and protection but also requires a combination of scientific know-how, engineering, and steadfast commitment to sustainable practices.

With proven recyclability in Brazil's recycling framework, Amcor is now focused on collaboration. The company is looking to offer its clients an alternative packaging solution that is already validated for recyclability, facilitating a more sustainable approach to product packaging.

Conclusion

As consumers continue to demand more transparency and responsibility from brands regarding environmental impact, Amcor is positioning itself at the forefront of this shift. The launch of AmFiber™ Performance Paper is a testament to the company’s ongoing innovation in packaging and its proactive strategies to meet the needs of a more conscientious market. With a team of approximately 70,000 professionals across 140 countries, Amcor remains committed to enhancing customer growth, fulfilling consumer demands, and protecting our shared future through responsible packaging initiatives.

For more information on Amcor’s efforts and sustainability initiatives, visit Amcor’s website.