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The shocking truth, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, (2018) is only between 4 ½ to 9% of plastics are recycled in the U.S.
Despite the widespread use of “recycling” symbols and marketing aimed at convincing us that it is okay to use throwaway plastic, only plastic #1 and #2 bottles and jugs meet the minimum legal standard to be labeled recyclable. Plastic # 1 is polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE), and plastic # 2 is high-density polyethylene (HDPE). All the other types of plastics are either burned or landfilled, even when collected as recycling.
What About Paper?
Between 66 ½ to 68% of all paper and paperboard collected is recycled or composted in the U.S..
https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-01/documents/2018_ff_fact_sheet_dec_2020_fnl_508.pdf
This difference, between paper and plastic, is shocking and a stark reality check. In January 2025 Circularise reported that 36 ½ % of all global plastic is used in packaging.
The reality is that we are reliant on plastic and its many benefits, but equally we are drowning in plastic waste. Paperboard cannot replace plastic in every packaging application, but when it can it is a more responsible choice. As a packaging designer, manufacturer or food processor what can you do?
How Lamitech Fits In
At Lamitech, we’ve spent decades developing paperboard materials engineered to perform where plastic dominates. From laminated and water-resistant boards to specialty SBS options, we’re proving that sustainability doesn’t have to mean compromise.
We believe in practical sustainability, choices that protect both the planet and product integrity. Because responsible packaging isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being intentional.
The Bottom Line
We can’t recycle our way out of the plastic problem, but we can design smarter from the start.
Every display, every box, every board, each one is a chance to make a small change that scales up.
So next time you’re deciding between paper or plastic, ask yourself: What’s really the smarter choice?
Because the future of packaging isn’t disposable, it’s designed with purpose.
