Poly Coated Paper
Insights into recoverability & value
The Poly Coated Paper Alliance (PCPA) is a collaborative platform working to demonstrate that poly coated paper packaging can be recycled at scale, can be readily sorted at material recovery facilities (MRFs), and can provide value to paper mills. PCPA supports material recovery through rigorous testing, multi-state auditing, and industry engagement.
High Performance Sortation is Possible
RFID Testing Efficiency
RFID testing at a MRF with fiber-optical sorters showed strong real-world sorting accuracy into marketable bales.
Across both tests, neither single- nor double-sided coating had a measurable effect on recovery.
74%
average sorting accuracy at a Midwest MRF
90%
average sorting accuracy at a West Coast MRF
Sortation Study (APR 2D/3D)
Under standardized test protocols, most formats evaluated were directed into expected bale streams.
92%
capture rate on average within study parameters
High Fiber Value Confirmed for Mills
Using the FBA/AF&PA Part 1 repulpability testing protocol, PCPA analyzed 20 different poly coated paper packages.
All formats yielded significant usable fiber, indicating high potential value to paper mills.
Minimum Fiber Yield Tested
Maximum Fiber Yield Tested
61%
84%
61% to 84% fiber yield achieved
Challenging Assumptions
Observed trends in bale quality & residue
Audits of mixed paper bales sourced from California, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Ohio, and Oregon found that poly coated paper is already present in the recycling stream and is being sorted into marketable bales.
2026 Bale Audit Findings
Poly coated paper made up approximately 1.9% by weight of mixed paper bales, verified using FTIR.
Existing Recycling Markets
Some U.S. MRFs produce carton and cup/carton bales that multiple paper mills accept for recycling. This demonstrates established collection, sortation, and end-market pathways.
Residue Neutral
Audits found no significant increase in food residue, despite being used in food service and food contact categories
