PCPA Unveils New National Strategy to Boost Poly Coated Paper Recycling and EPR Readiness
The Poly Coated Paper Alliance (PCPA) has unveiled a renewed national strategy aimed at accelerating the recovery and recycling of poly coated paper packaging, according to a statement released by the Alliance. The initiative targets everyday materials such as coffee cups, detergent boxes, and ice cream tubs, which are primarily made of paper but often excluded from local recycling systems.
According to PCPA, the new plan is designed to align with emerging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations now being implemented in several U.S. states. Although paper is one of the most recyclable materials globally, many poly coated paper products are still not accepted by municipal recycling programs. The renewed strategy seeks to change this by combining research-based insights, market coordination, and clearer design guidance to strengthen recovery systems nationwide.
“As states implement EPR programs, demonstrating the recovery of poly coated paper products is crucial,” said Teo Medellin, Director of Global Packaging Sustainability at Procter & Gamble and a member of PCPA’s leadership team. “PCPA’s strategy today successfully positions more poly coated paper packages to meet the standards of these emerging recycling systems.”
According to PCPA, the strategy focuses on building a more complete recycling pathway through several key measures: closing data gaps to document how poly coated paper moves through recovery networks; collaborating with mills and recyclers to expand responsible end-market acceptance; establishing universal design standards to help brands and recovery facilities manage these materials confidently; and expanding communication with communities and recyclers to raise awareness about the recyclability and value of poly coated paper packaging.
According to Scott Byrne, Vice President of Global Sustainability at Sonoco and a PCPA leadership member, the renewed plan represents a critical shift in how the industry approaches recycling infrastructure. “By combining research, market development, clear design standards, and stronger communication, the renewed workplan addresses every step of the recycling chain,” Byrne said.
Industry observers note that this move comes as several U.S. states — including California, Colorado and Oregon — advance packaging and paper EPR legislation requiring producers to take greater responsibility for the lifecycle of their packaging. Analysts say the approach taken by the designated producer-responsibility organization may become a benchmark for how collective industry action supports both compliance and circular-economy progress.
The Alliance’s renewed commitment is expected to enhance transparency across the recycling chain, improve collection infrastructure, and encourage broader stakeholder participation—from brand owners to recyclers. Experts suggest that, if widely implemented, this strategy could help poly coated paper packaging achieve true circularity while reducing waste and strengthening domestic recycling markets.
