Recyclable vs. Recycled Content: What’s the Difference, and Why It Matters in Packaging

What is Recyclable Packaging?

Recyclable packaging refers to materials that can be collected, processed, and remanufactured into new products after use. This includes materials like certain plastics, cardboard, paper, and metals. However, just because something can be recycled doesn’t always mean it will be.

Key considerations for recyclable packaging:

• Local recycling capabilities – Not all municipalities accept all recyclable materials.

• Contamination issues – Food residue or mixed materials (like plastic-coated paper) can prevent proper recycling.

• Consumer participation – If your end-user doesn’t recycle the packaging, its recyclability becomes irrelevant.

  Pro tip: Clear labeling and consumer education go a long way in ensuring recyclable materials are actually recycled.

  What is Recycled Content?

  Recycled content refers to the portion of materials in a product that have been sourced from previously used items. It can be either:

  • Post-consumer recycled (PCR) – Material reclaimed after consumer use (e.g., water bottles turned into new containers).

  • Post-industrial recycled (PIR) – Scrap or waste material from manufacturing that’s reprocessed.

  Using recycled content reduces the need for virgin materials, lowers energy consumption, and helps close the loop in the circular economy.

  Bonus benefit: Products with high recycled content can help your business meet corporate sustainability goals, including LEED certifications and other ESG metrics.

  Recyclable vs. Recycled: Which is Better?

  This isn’t a competition—it’s a collaboration. The best sustainable packaging often combines both features.
  
   

  Feature	Recyclable Packaging	Recycled Content Packaging
  Purpose	Can be reused after use	Uses material already recovered
  Environmental Impact	Reduces landfill waste	Conserves natural resources
  Consumer Role	Must dispose properly	Less consumer effort required
  Certification Needs	Often requires clear labeling	May qualify for sustainability credits

  
  
  A smarter choice? Use packaging that contains recycled content and is also recyclable. At New-Tech Packaging, we work with clients to design solutions that do both—without compromising performance or aesthetics.
  

  How New-Tech Packaging Helps

  At New-Tech, we stay at the forefront of sustainable packaging innovation. Whether you're looking for corrugated boxes made with 100% post-consumer recycled content or custom thermoform trays that meet recyclability standards, we’ve got you covered.

  We help businesses:

  • Evaluate and select sustainable materials

  • Design packaging for circularity

  • Ensure compliance with labeling standards

  • Improve environmental reporting for stakeholders