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PCPA issues first US design guide for mill recyclability of poly coated paper

The Poly Coated Paper Alliance has published a US design guide for the mill recyclability of poly coated paper packaging, the first comprehensive resource of its kind, built on feedback from mills representing over 90% of relevant recovered fibre consumption. The guide arrives as Circular Action Alliance finalises California's extended producer responsibility scheme and can draw on it to set fees and recovery strategies. The full guide is restricted to PCPA members for now, with public release planned after further industry consultation.

Why this mattersA mill-informed design standard could shape which coated-paper formats brands and converters keep making as US EPR fee schedules take effect.

• The Poly Coated Paper Alliance published its 2026 Design for Mill Recyclability Guidance on 15 September 2026, the first comprehensive US design guide for poly coated paper packaging.
• The guide covers formats including milk and juice cartons, coffee cups and ice cream containers.
• It was developed with input from US and Canadian mills representing more than 90% of consumption of recovered fibre grades containing poly coated paper, including Grade 54 Mixed Paper and Grade 52 Cartons.
• The framework uses four compatibility categories: fully compatible, conditionally compatible, not compatible and unknown, adapted from the 4evergreen Alliance guidance.
• Circular Action Alliance can use the guide to inform fees and recovery strategies as it finalises extended producer responsibility implementation in California.
• The full design guide is currently available only to PCPA members, advisors and partners, with public release planned after further industry engagement.

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