Smurfit Westrock is proud to announce the launch of its latest pioneering innovation, the EasySplit Bag-in-Box^® design which was specifically developed to meet the upcoming requirements of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The PPWR will mandate that all packaging achieves at least 80% recyclability. For Bag-in-Box^® products, this means ensuring the box and bag are easily separable to facilitate recycling. When the bag and box are properly separated, each component can be recycled in its respective stream, increasing the overall recyclability rate to over 90%.

If the components are not properly separated, the entire package will be evaluated in the recycling stream of the dominant material, typically cardboard, where the bag component cannot be recycled. In this case, the recyclability rate cannot be higher than 75% and could even be lower if the plastic bag is considered to be detrimental to the paper recycling process.

In answer to the challenge, Smurfit Westrock developed the patented EasySplit Bag-in-Box^® design. It significantly enhances the ease of separating the bag and box, thereby improving recyclability and ensuring compliance with the forthcoming PPWR.

Massimiliano Bianchi, CEO Smurfit Westrock Bag-in-Box, commented: "With the European Commission set to decide on the methodology within the next three years, it is imperative to act swiftly and demonstrate a viable solution to the challenge. Smurfit Westrock is leading the charge in preparing the packaging industry for future regulations by launching our EasySplit Bag-in-Box^® design."

"As we continue to educate consumers and stakeholders about the importance of proper recycling practices, Smurfit Westrock remains dedicated to driving positive change and demonstrating environmental stewardship."