Eight Eastman Copolyester Resins Achieve RecyClass Approval for Enhanced Recyclability
In a significant achievement for sustainability, Eastman, a global specialty materials company, has received RecyClass Recyclability Approvals for eight of its copolyester resins along with their Renew grades which include recycled content. These resins have been specially engineered to be compatible with the latest recycling processes used for PET bottles, particularly in Europe.
The list includes six specialty copolyesters, recognized for their full compatibility with state-of-the-art recycling methods. These resins, designated as Cristal™ EN076, Cristal™ One, Cristal™ One Pro, Cristal™ One IM812, Cristal™ One E, and Cristal™ One E Lux, are a robust solution for non-beverage packaging applications, like skincare jars and cosmetic products.
Moreover, the two additional resins, Cristal™ EN067 and Cristal™ EN059, have been classified as having limited compatibility, showcasing Eastman’s commitment to diverse applications within the sustainability narrative.
This recent approval is a result of rigorous independent testing performed by PTI-Europe and Plastics Forming Enterprises (PFE), employing an adapted version of the Recyclability Evaluation Protocol. The modified copolyesters produced by Eastman do not disrupt established recycling processes making them an excellent option for various packaging materials that lie outside the beverage category.
The unique properties of these resins include lower crystallisation rates compared to standard PET, translating into products that are not only durable but also boast impressive transparency and luster. Such features put Eastman's offerings at the forefront of high-performance packaging solutions aimed at enhancing the circularity of plastics.
The initiative aligns with the broader objective of the plastics industry to adapt their products in a manner consistent with recycling infrastructure advancements, further contributing to the goal of increasing the overall circularity of plastics.
RecyClass itself is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the sustainability of plastic products by enhancing their recyclability. It brings together various stakeholders in the industry to create standards and evaluations for plastic packaging. Through its protocols, RecyClass provides a transparent method for assessing the recyclability of materials and ensures they meet the necessary benchmarks to facilitate recycling.
Eastman, founded in 1920, stands as a long-established leader in specialty materials manufacturing with a diverse portfolio that includes products widely utilized in everyday life. The company's focus on innovation drives its efforts to provide solutions that not only meet consumer demands but also prioritize safety and sustainability. With approximately 14,000 employees globally, Eastman serves customers across over 100 countries, generating a revenue of approximately $9.2 billion in 2023.
With these new approvals, Eastman is poised to make a significant impact on the cosmetics packaging industry. By developing materials that cater to the needs of both consumers and environmental standards, Eastman continues to project itself as a forward-thinking company committed to fostering innovation at all levels of production. For more detailed insights on Eastman's sustainable packaging solutions, you can visit their website and explore the information they have on circular solutions.