CNG and NOVA Chemicals Push Forward Recycled Polyethylene for Flexible Packaging

In a move that underscores the packaging industry’s shift toward circularity, Charter Next Generation (CNG) and NOVA Chemicals have entered a strategic partnership to accelerate the commercialization of recycled polyethylene (rPE) in advanced flexible packaging. According to company announcements, the long-term collaboration is designed to strengthen supply chains while helping brands and retailers meet growing sustainability demands.

Under the agreement, CNG will source SYNDIGO™ branded rPE from NOVA Chemicals, a resin made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) film and packaging. The recycled resin is already being integrated into CNG’s flexible packaging products, replacing a portion of virgin polyethylene with lower-emission alternatives.

CNG confirmed that the partnership builds on its GreenArrow™ portfolio, which features recyclable, compostable, and recycled-content products. According to the company, applications of the new rPE films include shrink wrap, cereal liners, and household overwraps, offering both durability and measurable environmental benefits.

CNG said that the collaboration is supported by a Midwest-focused supply chain. CNG’s operations in Wisconsin and Ohio are closely aligned with NOVA Chemicals’ new recycling plant in Connersville, Indiana. The facility, which began production earlier this year, is expected to deliver more than 110 million pounds of rPE annually, positioning it as one of the largest film recycling hubs in North America.

“We are excited to take this next step in our sustainability journey,” said John Garnett, Senior Vice President of Technical, Sustainability, and Innovation at CNG. Greg DeKunder, Vice President of Circular Solutions at NOVA Chemicals, added: “By combining our resin innovation with CNG’s manufacturing expertise, we’re advancing PCR adoption across the flexible packaging industry.”

The global flexible packaging sector is under increasing pressure from regulators, investors, and consumers to reduce its reliance on virgin plastics. New legislation in the EU and North America, including recycled content mandates and extended producer responsibility frameworks, is accelerating demand for PCR-based resins. Partnerships like the CNG–NOVA agreement highlight how vertically integrated supply chains and regional sourcing strategies can mitigate risk, lower transport emissions, and provide a stable PCR supply.

Analysts note that with food companies and major retailers setting ambitious 2030 sustainability targets, scalable solutions such as SYNDIGO™ and GreenArrow™ could see rapid adoption. The Indiana plant’s large output capacity also suggests that the Midwest could emerge as a critical hub for North American plastic circularity initiatives.

The collaboration marks another milestone in the packaging industry’s path toward circularity. By combining resin innovation with advanced manufacturing, CNG and NOVA Chemicals are not only expanding access to recycled materials but also reinforcing the economic and environmental case for PCR integration in everyday packaging.

Source: Charter Next Generation