The BOTTLE4FLEX Project, a collaboration between AIMPLAS, Covinil, and Eroski, has been launched to develop recyclable 'skinpack' packaging using recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET).

This initiative aligns with the EU’s Circular Economy Strategy, which mandates that all plastic packaging in the EU must be 100% recyclable by 2030.

The project addresses the challenge of using recycled materials in food packaging while ensuring food safety.

Skinpack packaging, known for its 'second skin' feature, enhances the consumer experience by allowing a 3D view of the product.

This premium appearance, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility are believed to attract consumers. However, recycling multilayer packaging remains a challenge due to its composition.

The BOTTLE4FLEX Project seeks to overcome these recycling difficulties through innovations in chemical recycling and polymerisation technologies.

The project is funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities and the EU through Next Generation funds, under the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.

The goal is to develop a single-material film based on rPET, which is extensively used in trays and is currently the only recycled material used in Spain, predominantly for rigid packaging.

The BOTTLE4FLEX Project focuses on promoting solvolysis processes for recycling and modifying PET properties through partial depolymerisation.

It aims to utilise innovative technologies such as reactive extrusion and employ monomers and additives to enhance the flexibility of rPET. By doing so, the project aspires to create efficient, sustainable methods that promote plastic circularity and foster new circular production models.

Albertsons Companies, a food and drug retailer, recently introduced Bee Lightly, a new wine under its Own Brands collection, packaged in 100% rPET bottles.

This move, touted as the first of its kind in the US wine market, highlights the retailer's dedication to sustainable packaging solutions without compromising the high-quality taste that its consumers expect.