303 - Packaging Today - Why labels are awesome and also kinda suck

People of Packaging · 28 Jan 2025 · 38m

What this episode covers

Adam Peek, a packaging industry expert with 14 years of experience in labels and folding cartons, explains why labels are integral to packaging and discusses the critical role of adhesive selection in recyclability. He contrasts the forgiving nature of HDPE recycling with the economic challenges of PET recycling, where mismatched adhesives can render clear containers non-recyclable due to falling virgin resin prices. Peek also addresses the complexities of shrink sleeves on aluminum cans, digital printing on cans, and the potential role of chemical recycling in handling difficult plastic streams.

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