CCL Label launches next-generation EcoFloat in Southeast Asia

CCL Label has launched the next generation of EcoFloat shrink sleeves made from recycling-friendly polyolefin (PO) material in Southeast Asia. Made from recycling-friendly polyolefin (PO) material, they offer shrinkage of up to 73 percent to fit most packaging shapes and detach automatically during the recycling process.

The EcoFloat sleeve helps with the crucial sink/float process step in PET recycling because it is made from a low-density polyolefin material that floats. It automatically separates from the PET bottle flakes.

The density separation is simple and clean: the heavier PET flakes sink to the bottom of the container, while the floatable material collects at the top of the container and can be easily captured and removed. The recycler is left with high-quality, clean PET flakes that can be recycled back into food-grade packaging.

‘The development of this high-shrink version of our award-winning EcoFloat shrink sleeve enables our brand customers to switch from PVC or PET-G shrink sleeves, that are detrimental to recycling, to a more sustainable option made from polyolefin. This material is approved by recyclers and has been endorsed by RecyClass in Europe and APR in the US,’ said Marika Knorr, global head of sustainability at CCL Label.

‘Polyolefin material was always believed to have a lower shrinkage than other materials, but with up to 73 percent controlled TD shrinkage, the new generation sleeves fit most packaging formats, mainly bottles, in the market,’ added Ken Loh, technical manager at CCL Label Thailand. ‘The shrink sleeves are suitable for both – steam and hot air shrink tunnels. The material has a high gloss and clarity and is scuff resistant.’

The sleeve is also available in EcoFloat White, a white version developed for light-sensitive products such as dairy, supplements or vitamins. It enables brands to switch from a white HDPE bottle that cannot be recycled back into food-grade packaging to a transparent PET bottle that is food-grade recycled. The light-blocking barrier is moved to the sleeve itself.

EcoFloat is used by brand owners worldwide and has won several awards, such as the Finat Sustainability Award 2023.