CNG and NOVA Chemicals Scale Up Use of Post-Consumer Resin

Major North American plastics players collaborate to increase use of PCR in flexible films

Milton, WI  (November 1, 2021) – Charter Next Generation (“CNG”) and NOVA Chemicals Corporation (“NOVA Chemicals”) today announced a significant milestone in the large-scale use of post-consumer resin (PCR) for flexible film applications. The two companies have successfully collaborated to increase the supply of more sustainable films for packaging and advance a circular economy where valuable plastic materials are recycled to be used again and again. Railcar quantities of PCR arrived at CNG’s manufacturing facilities in October.

“We’re incredibly proud to introduce railcar quantities of PCR to our portfolio of product offerings. This is a significant milestone in how we’re delivering value to our customers and there’s much more to come as we look to achieve our bold ambition of creating a circular economy for plastic materials,” said Luis Sierra, president and chief executive officer, NOVA Chemicals. “Incorporating PCR into products and packaging is an essential component to eliminating plastic waste. We are delighted to work with film producers like Charter Next Generation to help shape a world where plastic products are even better tomorrow than they are today.”

 NOVA Chemicals’ polyethylene PCR (PE-PCR) business is expanding to support customer demand for recyclable film structures with recycled content to meet converter, brand owner and retailer sustainability goals. CNG’s purchase of recycled, linear low-density polyethylene (rLLDPE) can be used in a range of non-food film applications including e-commerce packaging, heavy duty sacks, collation shrink and industrial films.

 Charter Next Generation is proud to be a leader in sustainable film solutions and is committed to proving that circularity at scale is possible,” said Kathy Bolhous, chief executive officer, Charter Next Generation. “Our work with NOVA Chemicals is another step forward on our journey. Together, we’re pioneering efforts to deliver circular polymers to our customers.”

The PCR that CNG is purchasing from NOVA Chemicals will be used in films that are sold as part of the GreenArrow™ platform. With GreenArrow™, firms can:

  • Reduce carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Use post-consumer recycled resins
  • Convert multi-material, unrecyclable packaging into recyclable formats approved for store drop-off

“CNG is a leader in the plastics circularity journey,” said Greg DeKunder, vice president, polyethylene marketing, NOVA Chemicals. “The GreenArrow™ platform demonstrates a deep commitment to sustainability and how CNG is taking action. We look forward to continuing our long-standing collaborative relationship and meeting CNG’s PE-PCR supply needs.”

According to recent consumer research conducted by NOVA Chemicals, the majority of consumers in all age demographics prefer packaging that contains PCR. NOVA Chemicals’ and CNG’s work to increase PCR incorporation will help meet this emerging preference.

“Packaging solutions with a sustainability-first mindset has been a long-standing focus for Charter Next Generation,” said Scott Hammer, director of corporate sustainability, Charter Next Generation. “This achievement of large volume PCR usage clearly demonstrates what is possible when we all stay committed to creating a circular economy. There is still so much more to do, and we look forward to leading the way.”

NOVA Chemicals is a one-stop shop for its customers’ polyethylene needs. In addition to PE-PCR offerings, NOVA Chemicals is a leading producer of virgin polyethylene in North America with industry-best technical service and applications development support. To learn more about NOVA Chemicals’ PCR offerings, please visit www.novachem.com/pcr. 

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About Charter Next Generation

Charter Next Generation is North America’s leading independent producer of high-performance, specialty films used in flexible packaging and other end-use markets. Known for sustainable, innovative products and world-class manufacturing capabilities, the company’s quality and expertise are unsurpassed. Its sustainability first mindset, and relentless pursuit of excellence, make it an ideal partner to help brand owners reach their long-term sustainability goals. Visit Charter Next Generation at: https://cnginc.com

About NOVA Chemicals Corporation

NOVA Chemicals develops and manufactures chemicals and plastic resins that make everyday life healthier, easier and safer. We enable customer success with a portfolio of more than 125 virgin resins, a growing portfolio of PCR, and best-in-class technical and applications development support. NOVA Chemicals, headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is wholly owned ultimately by Mubadala Investment Company of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Visit NOVA Chemicals on the Internet at www.novachem.com. 

Media inquiries, please contact:
Charter Next Generation

Bill Singer, Director of Marketing, Branding, Bill.Singer@cnginc.com

NOVA Chemicals

Andie Stiles, Marketing Communications and Trade PR, E-mail: Andie.Stiles@novachem.com

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GreenArrow™ is a trademark of Charter Next Generation.

The NOVA Chemicals logo is a registered trademark of NOVA Brands Ltd.; authorized use.

Responsible Care® is a registered trademark of the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada.