Clamshell Recycling Initiative

It was not until fall 2009 that Dordan discovered that thermoformed packaging, like the clamshells, blisters and trays it manufactures, are not recycled in 60% or more American communities; therefore, could not be considered "recyclable" according to the FTC Green Guides' definition. Upon this realization, Dordan began an initiative looking to investigate the obstacles keeping thermoformed packaging from being recycled in hopes that in isolating the problems, the industry could begin developing solutions.

Dordan narrated its day-by-day efforts to understand recycling in America in its blog, RecyclablePackaging.org. The blog caught the attention of Walmart Canada’s Sustainable Packaging Director, who subsequently invited Dordan’s Sustainability Coordinator to co-lead the PET Subcommittee of the Material Optimization Committee. This working group of PET stakeholders looked to increase the recycling of PET containers, bottle grade and thermoform grade, through supply chain collaboration. Sometime thereafter, Dordan published “Recycling Report: The Truth about Blister and Clamshell Recycling in America with Suggestions for the Industry,” which presented the company’s findings on thermoform recycling to date. Therein the main obstacles keeping thermoformed containers from being recycled were outlined, suggesting steps the industry take to alleviate said barriers.

Dordan has discussed its findings at industry conferences and in industry publications, awarded the Sept./Oct. cover feature of Green Manufacturer Magazine for its efforts to recycle thermoformed packaging. Dordan continues to report on developments in PET thermoform recycling in its blog and looks forward to the future when all thermoformed containers will be recycled in America.

Click here to visit RecyclablePackaging.org!

Click here to download Dordan's “Recycling Report”!

Click here to read our COVER FEATURE in Green Manufacturer Magazine!