October 2025

Focus on circular economy - initiatives, projects, partnerships

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Dear Readers,

Reflecting on the leading trade fairs, drinktec and K, it is evident that the packaging industry is not merely responding to sustainability demands; it is proactively shaping them through innovation, scientific excellence, and enhanced collaboration.

It is good to see that the circular economy is more than just a vision. For PET, it is becoming a reality every day, driven by technology and supported by regulation, as well as a growing sense of shared responsibility.

Coca-Cola in Hong Kong is a current example of a company setting up closed loops. In future, it will recycle PET bottles in its own facilities and use them to produce new ones. This localised circular economy will shorten transport routes, reduce emissions, and enable the company to take consistent responsibility for its own material flow. Read more on page 8.

Sustainable technical developments can be found throughout the value chain. The new closure solutions from Closure Systems International show how intelligent design can lead to material savings without compromising functionality or safety. Lightweighting is one of the most effective ways to reduce resource consumption and shows that even small components can have a significant impact. See page 27.

CCL Label is providing important impetus in the dairy market with its sustainable product portfolio, which is aligned with the objectives of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). This demonstrates how regulatory guidelines can encourage innovation and pave the way for recyclable, future-proof packaging solutions. See page 14.

In terms of raw materials, the expanded ethylene supply agreement between Dow and MEGlobal (see page 21) and new materials such as Baeta rPET, which traps CO₂ during production, demonstrate that the circular economy goes far beyond end-of-life recycling. It encompasses the entire value chain, from raw materials to end products. See page 11.

My takeaway: The PET packaging industry is a prime example of how technical innovation and the circular economy are closely linked. Current developments demonstrate that technological progress, material efficiency and sustainability are the key factors in determining the industry's competitiveness.

We hope you find this a inspiring read!

Dr. Otto Appel

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