ePac Flexible Packaging and RePurpose Technologies (RPT) have entered into a partnership to tackle discarded plastic waste polluting the environment.
Digital print disruptor ePac Flexible Packaging uses HP Indigo presses and associated technologies to produce economical short and medium run length jobs, customisation, and the ability to order to demand to avoid costly inventory and obsolescence. RPT provides engineered products through purpose-driven recycling and ‘transparently unites the entire supply chain’, in a simple, sustainable, and economically viable platform that can withstand market fluctuations while achieving zero landfill
ePac operates a network of 14 US community-based flexible packaging facilities focusing on supporting the growth of small and medium sized companies. Using digital printing, every package produced can be serialised with a unique code that allows it to be tracked from production through reuse. Using IoT/Blockchain technology, data can be collected to provide tracking information to brands and retailers, while educating consumers about the package they just discarded and incentivising them to practice a sustainable lifestyle.
RPT utilises proprietary formulations and patented technology to manufacture high demand products from co-mingled plastics. Through a ‘plastics only’ collection process specifically designed to reduce handling and carbon footprint, RPT’s platform allows direct consumer engagement and traceability to ensure no plastic is left behind.
By forming this partnership, ePac and RPT will create replicable recycling facilities starting in 2021 that are able to create a circular community-focused option. The ability to track and trace every package will provide supply chain transparency to all parties in the value chain.
ePac and RPT cited statistics from the Flexible Packaging Association, which indicate 91% of all plastics end up in landfill.
RPT CEO Claudine Osipow said, ‘I’m excited to be a part of the team and the collaboration with ePac that allows everyone to take action and be part of the solution.’
ePac Flexible Packaging CEO Jack Knott added, ‘The reason we started ePac was to play a small part in rebuilding our communities; our relationship with RPT will allow us to continue in that direction with a reliable, sustainable, and transparent solution.’
