Nova Chemicals partners with CNG for recycled PE in flexible packaging

Nova Chemicals has collaborated with Charter Next Generation (CNG) to produce recycled PE for flexible packaging applications.

Under the brand name Syndigo, the PCR material is sourced from recycled film and plastic packaging. According to Nova Chemicals, the solution offers a lower-emission alternative to virgin PE.

The collaboration is said to support CNG’s Green Arrow portfolio, which features recycled and compostable products. These can be used in applications like cereal bags, shrink film, napkins, and paper towels.

Greg DeKunder, vice president at NOVA Chemicals’ Circular Solutions, says: “By combining our resin innovation with CNG’s manufacturing expertise, we’re advancing PCR adoption across the flexible packaging industry. It’s a powerful collaboration that brings together the strengths of both our Syndigo and GreenArrow brands.”

Commercializing PCR 

The collaboration will also capitalize on both companies’ supply chains in the US Midwest. CNG operates across Wisconsin and Ohio and Nova Chemicals’ new recycling facility in Indiana began production at the start of this year. 

The facility is expected to produce more than 49.9 million kg of recycled PE annually and is described as “one of the largest and most sophisticated” in the world.

John Garnett, senior vice president of technical, sustainability, and innovation at CNG, says: “By commercializing PCR content into everyday packaging, we’re helping build a more circular flexible packaging economy — delivering high-performance specialty films and advanced materials that reduce virgin plastic use, lower GHG emissions, and build a stronger end-market for PCR materials.”