Consumers are encouraging businesses to be more socially conscious and environmentally responsible. In fact, in countries around the world people are changing their buying behaviour to favour brands with green credentials. This includes favouring recyclable packaging and products with recycled content. As a result, businesses need to think carefully about the decisions they make. Changing things like using the right films and foils for laminating and foiling services can have a big impact.
The great thing about foil and film applications is there is a wider choice of products than ever before. Even better, major brands like Kurz and POLIFILM have lots of options for different applications. A crucial thing to look at though is the level of recycled content and the actual type. Let’s do that so you can learn more about the materials you are choosing.
Two types
The first thing to remember is there are two types of recycled content; pre and post consumer. There are significant differences between them. Even more importantly, there can be different preferences and regulations around the world. For example, in the UK we tend to favour pre consumer, but countries like Germany prefer post consumer.
So, what are the two? With pre consumer recycled content, the waste is from industrial and commercial operations. It can include a huge range of materials, including plastics, timber, metal scraps, fabric, and more. The easy way to look at it is this is all material that never gets to the consumer; it ends up on the factory floor or in bins and goes to be recycled to create different products, including films and foils for laminating and foiling services.
Post consumer recycled content on the other hand is materials that consumers have discarded after use. So, this includes things like cardboard boxes, plastic water bottles, and glass jars. Just think about everything that can go into a recycling bin/box.
Which is best?
While it’s positive to use any waste to make new products, it’s important to keep the differences in mind. Generally the opinion is it’s better to use products featuring higher volumes of post consumer recycled content. This means you’re actively helping to keep rubbish from landfill or polluting bodies of water.
Discuss lamination or foiling services with us
Whatever kind of laminating or foiling applications you have in mind, including decorative and functional, it’s a good idea to think about what products you are using. There are opportunities to be more sustainable with your choices. This can include films from brands like POLIFILM that contain 60% post consumer recycled content.
If you need some help to explore the options, you can rely on us. We have foils and films from all the top names. We can work with you to consider which to choose for various applications. Crucially, we can ensure you choose eco-conscious products that will deliver the level of performance you need.
So, get in touch and talk to us about lamination and foiling services. We’re one of the top experts in the UK, able to support clients in various industries.