Emerald Packaging eliminates over 1 million pounds of virgin plastic

Emerald Packaging announced that over the past year, the company has replaced more than 1 million pounds of virgin polyethylene (PE) with post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, marking a step forward toward establishing a circular economy and sustainability for flexible plastic packaging.  

Emerald Packaging’s shift toward PCR directly supports the sustainability goals of many of its food industry partners. Most recently, Emerald Packaging partnered with Idaho Package, Wada Farms and Walmart to introduce the first 30% food contact PCR bag for the potato category.

The initiative aligns with Walmart’s Project Gigaton, targeting a 1 billion metric ton emission reduction by 2030. To date, Walmart has eliminated more than 200,000 pounds of virgin plastic in its potato packaging.

Romaine shipper D’Arrigo Bros. of California was the first to partner with Emerald. The companies rolled out PCR bags across D’Arrigo’s entire product line, including romaine lettuce hearts and iceberg lettuce. The bags are 30% food contact PCR and have eliminated more than 600,000 pounds of virgin plastic from the supply chain. 

“This milestone reflects Emerald Packaging’s deep commitment to the environment and our technical ability to deliver high-quality packaging while reducing the reliance on virgin plastics,” said Kevin Kelly, CEO of Emerald Packaging. “We’ve worked closely with our supply chain partners and customers to make PCR a viable and scalable part of our product offerings for those who are seeking sustainable options that meet performance standards without compromising environmental values.”

Integrating PCR materials not only diverts plastic waste from landfills but also significantly reduces the carbon emissions associated with the production of virgin plastic. According to a 2004 study by University of California scientists, increasing the use of PCR has the most significant impact on waste plastic tonnage and GHG reduction compared to any other possible environmental action.

Emerald Packaging most recently helped shape legislation in California that addresses the need for a better recycling infrastructure.