Packaging Recycling

IBC Collections

Used contaminated HDPE drums are collected, handled, and processed in compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations. The drums are either decontaminated for reuse or recycled to recover HDPE material, supporting safe waste management and long-term sustainability goals.

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Plastic Drum Collections

Used contaminated scrap HDPE is safely collected, transported, inspected, decontaminated, and recycled under EHS regulations to produce reusable polymer, reduce landfill disposal, lower emissions, ensure regulatory compliance, and support responsible waste management and circular economy sustainability goals.

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Steel Drum Collections

Used contaminated IBCs are collected, transported, inspected, decontaminated, and either reconditioned for reuse or dismantled for material recycling in compliance with EHS regulations, ensuring safe waste management, traceability, reduced resource consumption, and support for circular economy objectives.

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Scrap Polymer Collections

Used contaminated scrap HDPE polymer is collected, inspected, decontaminated, and recycled under strict EHS regulations, producing recycled polymer or responsibly managed waste, ensuring regulatory compliance, reducing virgin plastic use, minimizing landfill disposal, and supporting circular economy goals.

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1. Specific Recycling Programs

a. Closed-Loop Reconditioning Programs

  • Many companies participate in closed-loop systems where used IBCs and drums are returned to specialized facilities for cleaning, repair, and reuse.
  • This process often involves third-party vendors who specialize in IBC reconditioning. 

Benefits:

  • Minimizes the number of containers needing new production.
  • Guarantees safety through testing.
  • Reduces waste and emissions from new manufacturing.

b. Take-Back and Reverse Logistics Programs

  • Some manufacturers and distributors offer take-back programs where customers return used containers.
  • Reverse logistics ensures containers are shipped back efficiently for recycling.
  • Often paired with incentives or deposits to encourage returns.

c. Industrial Recycling Networks

  • Networks of companies collaborate to collect, clean, and recycle containers.
  • Regional or global recycling initiatives promote sustainability and regulatory compliance.

2. Relevant Regulations

a. European Union

  • European Waste Framework Directive: Promotes waste prevention, reuse, and recycling, including specific guidelines for packaging waste.
  • UN ADR Regulates the transportation of hazardous materials in IBCs and drums.

REACH Regulation: Controls chemicals and ensures safety in material handling, impacting container recycling.

b. United States

  • Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA): Governs hazardous waste management, including the disposal and recycling of containers that held hazardous materials.
  • EPA Guidelines: Provide standards for cleaning and reusing containers safely.
  • DOT Regulations: Department of Transportation regulates the safe transport of IBCs and drums, including reconditioned containers.

c. Other Regions

  • Many countries have adopted similar regulations emphasizing the safe handling, reuse, and disposal of industrial containers.
  • Global standards by organizations like ISO and UN often apply.

3. Industries That Benefit Most

a. Chemical Manufacturing

  • Chemicals often require sturdy containers that can be reused safely.
  • Recycling reduces exposure risks and waste.

b. Food and Beverage

  • IBCs and drums transport bulk liquids like oils, syrups, and beverages.
  • Hygiene and safety in recycling are critical here to prevent contamination.

c. Pharmaceuticals

  • High standards for container cleanliness and safety.
  • Recycling programs help maintain compliance and reduce waste.

d. Agriculture

  • Fertilizers, pesticides, and other agrochemicals use IBCs and drums.
  • Recycling prevents environmental contamination and supports sustainable farming.

e. Petroleum and Lubricants

  • Large volumes transported in IBCs and drums.
  • Recycling helps manage hazardous waste safely.

4. Examples of Companies or Organizations

  • Greif Inc.: A major global supplier of industrial packaging and reconditioning services.
  • Schäfer Container Systems: Specializes in IBC recycling and refurbishment.
  • Returnity: Focuses on reusable packaging solutions with closed-loop logistics.
  • EPA and local recycling authorities: Provide certification and oversight.

Would you like me to help you with:

  • How to set up or join a recycling program?
  • Technical aspects of cleaning and refurbishing IBCs/drums?
  • Specific regulatory compliance steps for your region or industry?