CNG Joins Effort to Scale Recycling Solutions

Charter Next Generation (CNG) has joined the U.S. Flexible Film Initiative (USFFI) as an associate member, becoming the second packaging manufacturer participating in the coalition focused on scaling recycling solutions for flexible packaging in the U.S., the company said in a news release.

“Meeting future curbside recycling requirements is a high priority for the flexible film industry, and one we cannot wait for others to solve,” says Kristin Edie, director of sustainability and regulatory at CNG. “Economic barriers and limited end markets have long challenged film recycling. By combining our expertise in sustainable film design with USFFI, CNG is committed to helping make flexible films a practical, scalable part of the circular economy.”

As an associate member, CNG will contribute its expertise in sustainable film design and material innovation as the initiative works to expand recovery systems and strengthen domestic end markets for recycled flexible films, the company also says.

“As brands and retailers prepare for stricter recyclability requirements, packaging design is becoming a critical part of the equation, so materials must not only meet performance needs but also work within emerging recycling systems and end markets,” it adds.

The effort comes as emerging packaging regulations and extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies, particularly California’s SB 343 and SB 54, are increasing pressure across the packaging value chain to demonstrate viable recycling pathways for flexible packaging, the company explains.

CNG, which is a member of the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), notes that another FPA member, Emerald Packaging Association, was the first associate member of USFFI to join earlier this year.