American sustainable packaging company Graham Packaging has announced receiving certification under GreenBlue’s voluntary, market-based framework, called ‘Recycled Material Standard’ (RMS).
With this achievement, Graham Packaging said it has become the first company in the US to execute multi-site certification for mass balance under the RMS.
The milestone further reinforces Graham Packaging’s commitment to promote sustainability by using more recycled materials for manufacturing its packaging products.
Graham Packaging chief strategy and sustainability officer Tracee Auld said: “This certification empowers us to incorporate higher levels of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, delivering sustainable packaging solutions to our customers.
“The traceability, third-party verification, and flexibility provided by the RMS are invaluable tools that reinforce Graham’s commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility.”
Graham Packaging embarked on its journey to achieve RMS certification after completing a successful pilot programme with GreenBlue last year.
The success of this pilot programme further allowed the packaging company to pursue multi-site certification under RMS by utilising “mass balance methodology” to transfer PCR credits for its entire product portfolio.
One of the sustainability targets of the US-based packaging company is to incorporate an average of 20% PCR content for all its manufactured bottles by 2025.
The latest RMS certification will help Graham to optimise the use of PCR in its products to ensure accurate tracking and accountability recycled materials.
Besides, the RMS certification includes Graham Packaging's two facilities, including a production facility and Graham Recycling Company, both in York, Pennsylvania.
Graham Packaging Sustainability vice president Richa Desai said: “Our collaboration with RMS and GreenBlue exemplifies Graham’s steadfast commitment to advancing sustainability practices and fostering a more circular economy.
“Together, we are actively shaping a future where recycled materials play a pivotal role in minimising environmental impact and creating a better tomorrow.”