At Dordan, we combine decades of thermoforming expertise with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. As a sustainable plastic packaging manufacturer, we offer custom recyclable, recycled, and bio-based thermoformed packaging designed to reduce environmental impact while meeting functional performance goals.
Our sustainability strategy is guided by life cycle assessment (LCA) principles, third-party data, and a commitment to minimizing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with material production and packaging manufacturing.
We believe that sustainability requires life cycle thinking, not assumptions. Independent LCAs show that plastic packaging—especially when sourced from recycled materials—often has a lower environmental footprint than alternatives.
Benefits of plastics in LCA studies include:
Lightweight design, which reduces fuel use during shipping
Durability, supporting protection and extended shelf life
Hygienic properties, essential for medical packaging, food safety, and efficient logistics
Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Plastic: We manufacture thermoformed packaging using up to 100% post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR), primarily RPET. PCR materials are sourced from curbside collection programs, including PET beverage bottles, the leading input for PCR thermoform sheet. Our PET and RPET clamshells and trays are recyclable in over 60% of U.S. communities, making them a smart, sustainable choice for consumer, industrial, and medical applications.
Post-Industrial Recycled (PIR) Plastic: Dordan also offers packaging made from post-industrial recycled plastic. We grind all in-house plastic scrap and return it to domestic suppliers for reprocessing into thermoform-grade sheet. This closed-loop system supports waste reduction and resource efficiency.
We provide select bio-based plastics including Bio-PET, PLA, and other compostable resins derived from annually renewable resources. However, we caution that many bioplastics lack the commercial composting infrastructure needed for responsible end-of-life management.
Explore the History of Bioplastics to learn more about their environmental trade-offs.
All of our sustainable thermoformed packaging is proudly Made in the USA using locally sourced recycled plastics like RPET and RHIPS. Our partnerships with regional suppliers shorten supply chains, reduce emissions, and increase material traceability.
Compared to offshore manufacturing, Dordan’s domestic packaging solutions minimize transport-related carbon emissions and help ensure compliance with U.S. sustainability standards.
Request a Sustainable Packaging Consultation
Looking to transition to more eco-friendly plastic packaging? Request a Quote or Contact Us today for a free consultation on your sustainable packaging goals.
Phone 815-334-0087 | Fax 815-334-0089 | Toll Free 800-663-5460 | sales@dordan.com
2025 Castle Road, Woodstock, IL, 60098
©2018 Dordan Manufacturing Company, Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.
