Redesigning soft plastic coffee bags for the future
For years, Australians were able to recycle soft plastics (including soft plastic coffee bags) via the Redcycle program. Then the Redcycle program ceased at the end of 2022 because the program became overwhelmed with low-value material. Successful recycling hinges on the quality of the plastics being recycled and this is why APCO (Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation) has now tightened the regulations to ensure higher standards for flexible packaging. This means that when a new and improved soft plastics recycling program launches (loosely believed to be around 2026), there’ll be stringent benchmarks for processing, which would ensure a new and improved program has a better chance of success.
Introducing our new soft plastic coffee bag: Mono PCR
When we talk about high quality soft plastics that are able to be recycled, the term is mono. Mono means ‘one’ or ‘singular’ and in this case, it refers to using a single grade of plastic, and this is really important for ensuring recycling efficiency. Our new Mono PCR Soft Plastic Coffee Bag, made with up to 30% recycled content, has been designed to align with APCO’s new standards, by avoiding the common mix of low-grade plastics. These bags will carry the “Check Locally” logo from the Australian Recycling Label (ARL).
With this product that’s been designed especially for custom print orders, we’re creating new bags using old ones, reducing the need for virgin plastics and in the process, helping to create a more sustainable production cycle. This bag is really about we’re thinking ahead to when a new soft plastics recycling program is rolled out across Australia, and ensuring we have a soft plastics packaging option that gives roasters full confidence in its ability to be recycled.
Why recyclable bags?
When done right, recycling is ultimately the most accessible option for the majority of people and when the new soft plastics recycling program is up and running, we’re confident that this new bag will be able to be easily recycled at its end of life.
Soft plastic coffee bags are arguably one of the best options for maintaining the freshness of coffee, especially when product is bought online and shipped to the end customer.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- This bag has a high barrier which helps keep your coffee fresher for longer
- Great for coffee that’s sold online and shipped direct for customers, because the structure is sturdy and holds up during transit
- Easy to print on and customise
- Made with high value mono plastic to ensure successful recycling through soft plastic recycling streams
Cons:
- Slightly more premium price than other mixed soft plastics bag options
- The less rigid structure can mean slightly more variance in custom print manufacturing
- Right now there is no broad soft plastic recycling stream for this bag (even though it may be able to be recycled through TerraCycle or Reground soft plastic recycling programs)
Want to know more?
If you’re looking at sourcing new coffee packaging, our Mono PCR bag might be a great option for you. Reach out to our team or book a call — we’d love to help!
