Braskem develops hearing protector packaging with 50% recycled resin content

Braskem, working with 3M and MagSac Embalagens, has developed flexible packaging for 3M's 1100 and 1110 hearing protectors using 50% post-consumer recycled resin from its Wenew portfolio. The solution cuts the packaging's carbon footprint by an estimated 24% versus a virgin-resin version while keeping quality and durability. It is described as the first flexible packaging of this type in Latin America with 50% PCR content, and it can use about 180 metric tons of post-consumer recycled material annually.

Key facts

Market context

Flexible packaging is typically made from polyethylene and polypropylene films, which protect products, extend shelf life and keep packaging lightweight. Post-consumer recycled resin, or PCR, is plastic recovered from used consumer products and reprocessed into new feedstock. Demand for PCR in flexible packaging is driven mainly by consumer goods, healthcare and personal care brands that face brand-owner recycled-content targets and retailer sustainability commitments. Converters and brand owners increasingly need recycled grades that match virgin resin performance in sealing, strength and clarity, which can be difficult to achieve. Supply of high-quality PCR depends on collection and sorting infrastructure, so suppliers with established recycling networks can meet specification-grade demand more reliably. Regulatory recycled-content rules in Europe and parts of the United States are pushing brand owners to qualify such materials sooner, which tends to support prices for certified recycled grades relative to commodity virgin resin.

Source: official release on braskem.com.br. Summary and context written by Market Krystal.