SUSTAINABILITY: NOT JUST A WORD
Emerald Packaging offers the latest bio-based and hybrid films while ensuring compostable films meet the ASTM D6400 standard. If bio-polymers won’t work, we help our customers design recycle-ready packages. Our industry has recognized our commitment to sustainable packaging with multiple Flexible Packaging Association awards.
OUR PACKAGING PORTFOLIO
Standard
- Using standard/conventional hydrocarbon-based packaging materials
- Focus on right sizing packaging, down gauging films
- Application formats: Rollstock, Bags, SUPs
Recyclable
- 100% recyclable, surface and reverse printed polyethylene SUPs
- Substitutes for PET/PE laminated structures
- Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content films
- Application formats: Rollstock, SUPs
Renewable
- Use of resin from a renewable, bio-based source such as corn starch, potato starch, sugar cane and/or other cellulose-based bio-films
- Application formats: Rollstock, SUPs
Compostable
- Using certified compostable films and materials (including adhesives)
- Accordance with ASTM6400 standards of compostability
- Application formats: Rollstock, SUPs
Emerald Means Green
Emerald Packaging is committed to sustainable practices throughout our organization. That’s why the state of California certified us as a Green Business, the only flexible packaging manufacturer to earn the honor. This certification assures that our facilities and operations comply with rigorous environmental regulations in the areas of waste, energy, water, pollution prevention and air quality.
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
• Color matching technology is used to cut ink waste
• Defect detection systems on our printing presses and extruders reduce print errors and film waste
• Automation in various departments prevents over mixing of chemicals and solvents
• Air compressor units have built-in variable speed drives that match use to need
• Our digital printing affiliate eliminates the need for printing plates and enables short runs to match demand
CONSERVATION
• Drip irrigation and drought resistant landscaping conserve water
• Highly efficient lighting with motion sensors for factory and offices reduce energy use
DISTRIBUTION
• Strategic use of back haul and block chain trucking technology
• Right sizing of pallets and boxes to maximize loads and reduce overall carbon footprint
• Consolidation of regional shipments to ensure maximum loads
ZERO WASTE GOAL
• Recycle, reuse or reclaim 99% of ink, corrugated, plastic scrap and pallets
• Reusable plastic cores and pallets eliminate wood/paper products
• Extensive ink work-off initiative slashes ink waste
• In-house solvent recycling system captures and recycles 100% of cleaning solvents
Walking the Talk:
Sustainability Legislation
INFLUENCING PACKAGING LEGISLATION
• Helped write amendments for the produce industry to grant Field Pack Produce and Salad Packaging exemptions from proposed CA SB-54 anti-plastics bill. Lobbied to defeat the bill when it did not protect produce packaging.
• Lobbying to increase funding to upgrade recycling systems. We’re one of the few packaging manufacturers to join the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR).
• Successfully helped pass laws in California defining biodegradability, mandating resin pellet containment and launching the store take-back program for plastic bags
• Working with state and local agencies to create laws to reduce plastic litter
THE PATH TO CIRCULARITY
• Work with us to create your recyclable packaging. Recyclable is the most scalable solution into the future.
• Ask us about the latest developments in compostable packaging
• Rely on our expertise to achieve source reduction by designing and manufacturing materials that reduce mass, volume and toxicity throughout your products lifecycle
• Get involved. We’re lobbying to save produce packaging in order to reduce food waste.
• Advocate for and help underwrite recycling system upgrades. Join APR.
