How Single-Material Packaging Can Improve Recyclability
Single-material packaging uses one substrate such as paper, PP, PE or glass, which allows easier recycling by avoiding composite layers. Multi-material packs often cause sorting issues, contamination and low recycling yields, leading to landfill or incineration. Mono-material designs simplify processing, raise recovery rates and enable higher-quality recycled output. Brands including Nestlé, Colgate, Heinz and Unilever have already adopted such formats. Trade-offs remain with barrier protection, shelf life and design possibilities, but innovations in coatings and films are improving performance.