PCR Material: Definition and Use in Cosmetic Packaging

What Is PCR Material?

PCR stands for Post-Consumer Recycled. PCR materials are plastics recovered from products that have already been used by consumers and would otherwise enter the waste stream.

In cosmetic packaging, PCR plastic is increasingly used by brands looking to reduce their reliance on virgin plastic.

Where Does PCR Plastic Come From?

PCR materials can be produced from discarded plastic products such as milk bottles and drinks bottles. These materials are collected, processed and recycled so that the recovered plastic can be used in the manufacture of new packaging.

Using post-consumer recycled material provides a way to give previously used plastic another application rather than treating it as waste.

PCR Material in Cosmetic Packaging

PCR plastic can be incorporated into different types of cosmetic packaging, depending on the material specification and the requirements of the packaging component.

Its use can be particularly relevant for brands seeking to:

• Reduce the amount of virgin plastic used in packaging
• Incorporate recycled content into their packaging
• Support a circular approach to plastic use
• Reuse materials recovered from consumer waste

PCR material can also be recycled again for further manufacturing, helping extend the useful life of plastic materials.

PCR vs Virgin Plastic

The main difference is the source of the material. Virgin plastic is produced from newly manufactured raw materials, whereas PCR plastic incorporates material recovered from post-consumer waste.

The proportion of PCR content can vary depending on the packaging specification and material available. Therefore, the suitability of PCR should be evaluated during the packaging development process.