Plastics Road Map
Roadmap Introduction
We have a responsibility at the Sustainable Mail Group (SMG) to be stewards of the environment who actively encourage positive action among our membership. That obligation is made stronger by developing this Plastics in Mail Sustainability Roadmap, which clearly defines several initiatives available to organizations that are eager to improve their environmental practices.
Detailed inside, there are a range of sustainable solutions that can help guide key decisions around product choices and operational processes. As an Implementation Member of the Canada Plastics Pact (CPP), the Sustainable Mail Group is committed to promoting and scaling solutions that allow plastics to remain in the economy, but remove them as a threat to people, animals and the environment. The SMG further supports the implementation of the Golden Design Rules as guided by the CPP.
The Roadmap and case studies we’ve assembled reflect the strength of our collective membership. They demonstrate how leading organizations are actively tackling the challenge to reduce their environmental footprint through improved direct mail practices. By sharing these initiatives with others, together we can make a measurable difference and demonstrate to others how to incorporate these vital practices into everyday processes.
Plastics in Mail Sustainability Roadmap
Eliminate all packaging entirely.
Removing all forms of packaging (envelopes, plastic overwrap…etc.) from direct mail is beneficial because it reduces waste, lowers costs, and minimizes the environmental impact associated with producing and disposing of excess materials.
Eliminate plastics and replace with paper.
Replacing plastic envelopes and overwraps in direct mail with paper alternatives can enhance recyclability by preventing contamination of the paper waste stream.
Reduce plastics use through down gauging (use a thinner plastic material) or size reduction.
Reducing plastic use through down gauging or size reduction in direct mail decreases material consumption and waste.
Reduce the use of virgin plastic by incorporating post-consumer recycled content.
Incorporating post-consumer recycled content in direct mail packaging reduces the reliance on virgin plastic, conserving natural resources and lowering the environmental impact associated with plastic production. This practice also supports the recycling industry.
Ensure that the plastic used is a mono material or a mono material laminate, with a preference for LDPE and HDPE.
LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) are more easily recyclable. Mono materials consist of a single type of plastic, making the recycling process simpler and more efficient. When different types of plastics are combined, it can complicate the recycling process and reduce the quality of the recycled product. LDPE and HDPE are commonly recycled and have established recycling streams, ensuring that products made from these materials are more likely to be properly processed and reused.
Remove difficult to recycle or problematic materials. No undetectable carbon black. No oxo-degradable.
Undetectable carbon black is undetectable in the sorting process when using Near Infra-Red (NIR) technology, which is widely used in plastics recycling systems. As a result, dark-coloured packaging commonly ends up as residue and is disposed of in landfill or incineration. Oxo-degradable plastics contribute to microplastic pollution and are not suited for long-term reuse, recycling at scale or composting.
Include separation and disposal instructions.
Consumers have a key role to play in ensuring packaging is sorted for the appropriate end-of-life solution; clear and accurate on-pack recycling instructions can increase the chances that this role is fulfilled.