Driving Sustainable Innovation: Post-Consumer Recycled Pails in Aurora, IL

In 2023, we launched Sika’s first annual North American Sustainable Packaging Challenge to inspire sustainable packaging solutions. Berry Global won with their proposal for 100% recyclable pails made of 30% PCR, significantly reducing virgin material use and carbon footprint while maintaining high performance. By switching from a 100% virgin plastic pail to 70% virgin plastic/30% PCR pail an estimated 190 metric tons of CO2 are avoided per year.

Once the Packaging Challenge was concluded, our teams worked together to bring the PCR pails to production, ensuring they met our sustainability and performance standards. To highlight the recycled content of the packaging to our customers and communicate our commitment to sustainability, a PCR logo was implemented onto the product artwork. Clear communication on the packaging ensures customers can make informed choices.

Previously at our Aurora, IL plant, 5-gallon pails of SikaColor-300 Antiquing Release and SikaColor-340 SG Antiquing Release were labeled on-site. The new preprinted PCR pails will reduce labor and create a polished fresh look for our products. SikaColor-300 Antiquing Release and SikaColor-340 SG Antiquing Release are premium colored powder bond breakers for the use of SikaStamp tools.Beyond the implementation of PCR pails, the Aurora, IL plant has taken significant steps to enhance sustainability, including reducing compressed air leaks, switching to electric forklifts, and implementing all LED lighting.

• Environmental Impact: Using 30% PCR material reduces virgin plastic use and lowers our carbon footprint
• Customer Trust: Transparent sustainability practices build trust and strengthen customer relationships
• Innovation and Leadership: Leading in sustainability sets us apart and showcases our dedication to responsible practices.