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Client : Cascades

In market : 2021

Objectives of the initiative

We at Cascades, set the circular economy at the heart of our business model and our environmental initiatives. In order to reduce the impact of our paper towel and toilet paper packaging on the environment, we replaced our packaging made from virgin plastic with a packaging made from 100 % post-industrial recycled resin, without compromising the strength and transparency, which allows the consumer to see the contents.

To better understand the environmental impact of this initiative, we conducted a detailed life cycle assessment (LCA) with an external firm, the Group AGÉCO. This study allowed us to estimate the potential environmental impacts of our products and their packaging, throughout their life cycle, from their conception to their end of life.

In parallel, we also wanted to have the packaging qualified by How2Recycle® in order to obtain an evaluation of its recyclability in Canada and a standardized label that clearly indicates to consumers how to properly dispose of the packaging after use.

Challenges

Among the challenges we faced was procuring a steady stock of recycled resin, which is in short supply compared to virgin resin. We also had to tackle a technical challenge in the design process, since the quality of the plastic film produced with the recycled resin is much less consistent than that of virgin resin. Several printer adjustments were required to create packaging of equal or greater quality than our current packaging in terms of resistance, esthetic qualities and transparency. Visually, we wanted to highlight the improvements to our packaging, which aren’t immediately noticeable, without changing the way the product information is presented.

Benefits

By replacing virgin resin with recycled resin, we were able to reduce the carbon footprint of our packaging. For example, for the Tuff® Enviro six-roll jumbo paper towels, our efforts led to a potential 14% reduction in the greenhouse gas emissions generated during the packaging’s life cycle. The potential benefits stemming from our efforts are also in line with the results of the detailed LCA conducted by the Groupe AGÉCO in 2021.

We can now offer our customers and consumers an optimized packaged product with instructions on how to dispose of the packaging after the paper towels have been used.

Optimization actions taken

  • Packaging made from 100 % post-industrial recycled plastic resin to reduce the use of virgin material
  • Intranet
  • Company newsletter
  • Direct consultations with our suppliers
  • Recycled material content indicated on the packaging
  • Our packaging was assessed by How2Recycle®. A label with clear disposal instructions that was added to the packaging
  • Retail outlets
  • Website
  • Advertising

Après optimisation

14% Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions

100% Increase in recycled content