Three Japanese companies have successfully created a new type of flexible packaging film made from horizontally recycled material. 

The film, produced through a joint pilot project, is designed to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the packaging industry.

Toppan Holdings, RM Tohcello and Mitsui Chemicals have announced the development of the recycled film, which is made from BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene) flexible packaging film.

The process involves collecting printed film waste, removing the ink and repelletising the material before turning it into new film.

The recycled film is suitable for mass production and meets the necessary physical properties for packaging applications.

They will begin providing samples of the film to potential customers in October 2024.

The development of this new material aligns with the Japanese government's resource circulation strategy for plastics, which aims to increase the recycling and reuse of plastic materials.

By creating a recyclable packaging film, the companies are contributing to a more sustainable future.

Mitsui Chemicals played a key role in the project by providing expertise in polypropylene resins and handling the ink removal process. 

RM Tohcello contributed its BOPP film manufacturing technology, while TOPPAN provided the film waste and carried out the conversion and marketing.

The companies hope to expand the use of the new recycled film and further develop horizontal recycling technologies for flexible packaging. They believe that this initiative can help to reduce plastic waste and promote a more circular economy.

The samples to be provided will be displayed at TOPPAN and Mitsui Chemicals’ booths at TOKYO PACK 2024.