Sustainable r-PET cups for drinks

As a plastic packaging producer, Greiner Packaging has taken a close look at the background to the new legal requirements, such as the ban on single-use plastics in the EU and the marking requirement for single-use beverage cups from July 3, 2021. The new r-PET beer cups are another sustainable solution that addresses these legal changes effectively. The benefits are clear to see – specifically, from the system. Mechanical recycling is already a viable option thanks to the high degree of purity and the material streams available. And in the future, this cup concept will also potentially allow for a dedicated recycling loop (for instance, at events).

Recycled polyethylene terephthalate (r-PET) is ideal for a dedicated recycling stream, accommodating environmental, economic, and social considerations. Mechanical recycling of r-PET works well and is extremely efficient. In addition, we can expect chemical r-PET recycling to be possible starting in 2025, which will then provide an even higher purity level.

Greiner Packaging’s new plastic beer cup is also based on r-PET. It is currently made from 100% recycled material, but can be made with 30 to 50% if requested by a customer. The cups make an appealing visual impression thanks to attractive printing options – plus, they are ideally suited for applying (presumably embossing) the required EU markings during mass production. Greiner Packaging has already produced initial series of sample batches.