Alternative Sustainable Attributes: When D4R Doesn’t Make Sense

Designing for Recyclability (D4R) remains a critical priority in sustainable packaging strategy, even when recycling streams are not yet fully established. However, for packaging types where established recycling streams do not exist, alternative sustainable attributes can help brands immediately enhance their environmental impact and strengthen their sustainability initiatives.

 

Understanding D4R and SustainLabel!®

It’s important to note that designing a label to be recycling-friendly depends on the specific type of plastic or resin it’s being applied to. For example, Yerecic Label’s SustainLabel!® Preferred Design Recognition label construction emphasizes a label designed with PET recyclability in mind, including an APR Recognized Wash-Away Adhesive that significantly enhances the packages recyclability. The requirements for this type of label design have been created with PET recycling practices in mind.

 

Exploring Alternative Sustainable Attributes

Brands have numerous opportunities to advance sustainability beyond traditional recycling. Through collaboration with our trusted suppliers, we have identified several impactful alternatives:

Responsibly Sourced Materials: Labels from responsibly managed renewable resources, such as certified sustainable paper stocks, help conserve biodiversity and protect ecosystems. While Yerecic Label is not FSC certified, an overwhelming majority of our paper materials are certified and responsibly sourced.

Reducing Material Usage: Opting for thinner, lighter-weight labels significantly decreases waste, reduces energy consumption, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions, while also enhancing operational efficiency. Ask YL about alternate material options and right-sizing your current label constructions.

Incorporating Recycled Content: Transitioning to label materials that contain post-consumer recycled content can reduce dependency on virgin resources, lower carbon footprints, and contribute to a more robust circular economy. Yerecic Label offers multiple PCR material options, with additional sourcing available based upon your specific needs.

Compostability Options: Compostable labels, including both facestocks and adhesives, offer an environmentally friendly end-of-life option. While Yerecic Label doesn’t offer a certified compostable label construction at this time, we’re actively working with our material suppliers to source, test, and work towards certification of a compostable label construction. Expressing your interest in these types of sustainable solutions helps to drive the viability and future availability of these innovative solutions.

 

When Alternative Attributes Aren’t Enough: Liner Recycling

If these alternative sustainable attributes aren’t viable for your packaging, another impactful sustainability avenue is liner recycling. Label liner waste contributes significantly to industry waste streams, and programs exist to facilitate liner recycling into new products. By recycling label liner, brands can directly support the circular economy, reduce waste management costs, and enhance their sustainability efforts.

As a founding member of TLMI’s Liner Recycling Initiative (LRI), Yerecic Label is currently seeking brands interested in learning more about recycling liner waste. Reach out today for more information about becoming a liner recycling partner!

Partnering for a Sustainable Future

At Yerecic Label, we actively collaborate with industry-leading suppliers who provide innovative solutions aligned with these sustainable alternatives. We’re committed to help navigate the complexities of sustainable labeling. Together, we can identify solutions that best match your packaging needs and sustainability goals, moving toward a brighter, greener future.