Closed Loop Recycling
Recycling where packaging waste is reprocessed back into the same type of packaging, maintaining material value. For example, a PET bottle recycled into a new PET bottle rather than a lower-value product.
Closed loop recycling occurs when packaging waste is collected, processed, and made back into the same type of packaging. This is considered the gold standard for packaging recycling as it maintains the highest material value.
Examples of closed loop recycling:
- Glass bottles recycled into new glass bottles
- PET bottles recycled into new PET bottles (bottle-to-bottle)
- Aluminium cans recycled into new aluminium cans
- Steel cans recycled into new steel products
Closed loop recycling is a key element of the circular economy — materials are kept at their highest value indefinitely. It contrasts with open loop or downcycling, where materials are made into lower-value products. Food-grade closed loop recycling requires stringent controls to ensure material safety. Recycled content from closed loop systems is generally higher quality. Packaging designed for closed loop recycling may benefit from favourable modulated fees.
Related Terms
Modulated Fees
Fee adjustments applied on top of base fees that reward recyclable packaging wit...
Recyclability
The practical ability of a packaging item to be collected, sorted, and reprocess...
Recycled Content
The proportion of a packaging item made from previously recycled materials rathe...
Circular Economy
An economic model that eliminates waste by keeping materials in use for as long ...
Downcycling
Recycling where the output material is of lower quality or value than the origin...
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