ZURICH, November 27, 2024- Amcor (NYSE: AMCR, ASX: AMC), a global leader in responsible packaging solutions, has signed a strategic collaboration agreement with Kolon Industries Inc., a leading South Korean chemical materials manufacturer, to co-develop and commercialize more sustainable polyester materials for selected applications in Amcor's flexible packaging business. This partnership represents a step forward in advancing packaging sustainability, combining Amcor's expertise in innovative packaging with Kolon's high-polymer manufacturing technology.
The collaboration focuses on technological exploration of chemically recycled PET (crPET) and polyethylene furanoate (PEF) materials. Kolon is pioneering an advanced recycling process to produce new PET from post-consumer bottles, fibers and flexible packaging. Using crPET supports Amcor's commitment to integrating 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials by 2030.
Kolon's PEF material, a polyester structure similar to PET, will be sourced from 100% sustainable biomass and offers improved product protection. With a lower product carbon footprint*, PEF will also contribute to Amcor's net-zero ambitions by 2050.
"This partnership enhances our efforts to offer customers innovative, more sustainable packaging solutions that include PCR content and reduce their carbon footprint," said William Jackson, Amcor's chief technology officer for flexible packaging solutions.
Sung Han, chief technology officer at Kolon Industries, added, "Our collaboration with Amcor will help accelerate the commercialization of more sustainable products and drive the circular economy in global packaging. We will continue expanding the development of more sustainable polymer technologies in support of carbon neutrality."
To learn more about Amcor's more sustainable products, visit amcor.com/sustainability-report.
About Amcor
Amcor is a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions across a variety of materials for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, home and personal-care, and other products. Amcor works with leading companies around the world to protect products, differentiate brands, and improve supply chains. The company offers a range of innovative, differentiating flexible and rigid packaging, specialty cartons, closures and services. The company is focused on making packaging that is increasingly recyclable, reusable, lighter weight and made using an increasing amount of recycled content. In fiscal year 2024, 41,000 Amcor people generated $13.6 billion in annual sales from operations that span 212 locations in 40 countries. NYSE: AMCR; ASX: AMC
About Kolon Industries
Established in 1957, Kolon Industries is a South Korean chemical business with a strong presence in the global market. The company provides an array of market-leading products, including industrial specialty materials such as tire cords and aramid fibers, in addition to petrochemical resins, generating more than $3.5 billion annually. Kolon Industries has been accelerating its efforts to develop breakthrough technologies based on its commitment to satisfying global clients with more sustainable business solutions.
