Do you know the difference between Post-Industrial Resin (PIR) and Post-Consumer Resin (PCR)?

A package is classified as being made of recycled material if it utilizes material that is post-industrial and/or material that is post-consumer. There is a distinct difference between these two materials and are both very valuable in supporting a sustainable package.

According to sustainablepackaging.org, Post-Industrial Resin (PIR) is “the waste generated from the manufacturing process that is reclaimed or used again in the same material.” PIR is ideal for applications that are not suitable for Post-Consumer Resin.

Post-Consumer Resin (PCR) is used by the consumer for its intended purpose, has reached its end of use, and then tossed into a recycling bin. PCR can be material that is curbside collected, household single-stream recyclables, and recyclables that are collected through deposit collection locations.

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