Greiner Packaging Introduces New, Sustainable r‑PET Cups For Beer And Other Drinks

With pubs and restaurants now open for outside service, Greiner Packaging has introduced new sustainable r‑PET cups for beer and other drinks.

“As a plastic packaging producer, Greiner Packaging has taken a close look at the background to the new legal requirements, such as the ban on single‑use plastics in the EU and the marking requirement for single‑use beverage cups from July 3, 2021,” says Greiner Packaging Sales Director Lucian Ocos. “Our new r‑PET beer cups are another sustainable solution that addresses these legal changes effectively.”

Mechanical recycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is already a viable option thanks to the high degree of purity and the material streams available. And in the future, this cup concept will also potentially allow for a dedicated recycling loop – for instance, at events.

“Recycled PET (r‑PET) is ideal for a dedicated recycling stream, accommodating environmental, economic, and social considerations,” says Lucian Ocos. “Mechanical recycling of r‑PET works well and is extremely efficient. In addition, we can expect chemical r‑PET recycling to be possible starting in 2025, which will then provide an even higher purity level.”

Greiner Packaging’s new plastic beer cup is currently made from 100% recycled PET (r‑PET), but can be made with 30 to 50% r‑PET if requested by a customer. The cups make an appealing visual impression thanks to attractive printing options – plus, they are ideally suited for embossing the required EU markings during mass production. Greiner Packaging has already produced an initial series of sample batches.