BiblioFlex to track flexible plastic packaging and recycling in Canada

The Circular Plastics Taskforce (CPT), in partnership with co Entreprises Qubec and Recycle BC, has announced a new nationwide program called BiblioFlex, aimed at examining flexible plastic packaging in Canada. The initiative seeks to provide a clearer understanding of these materials and their journey through the Canadian market.

Testing under BiblioFlex is expected to begin by the end of 2025, with initial results anticipated in the summer of 2026.

The project will involve detailed laboratory analyses to study the composition of flexible plastic packaging by market segment. By combining technical testing with industry data, BiblioFlex aims to guide improvements in packaging design and enhance recycling practices.

The initiative will operate through two regional centers located in Quebec and British Columbia, drawing on expertise from specialists across the country. Additional information about the hubs and their technical collaborators is planned for release in early 2026.

Marie-Anne Champoux-Guimond, co-chair of CPTs board of directors, highlighted the significance of the project: This initiative supports collaboration and innovation in managing post-consumer plastics in Canada. It also represents a key step in our national expansion efforts and will improve understanding of a packaging category that accounts for roughly half of all plastic packaging produced in the country.

CPT focuses on advancing a circular economy for post-consumer plastics, connecting recycled resin markets with the broader recycling system. Partners in the taskforce include Cascades, the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada, Circular Materials, Danone Canada, co Entreprises Qubec, Keurig Dr Pepper Canada, ProAmpac, and Recycle BC.

co Entreprises Qubec, a private non-profit organization, manages Quebecs kerbside recycling system and represents companies that place containers, packaging, and printed paper on the provincial market. Recycle BC oversees residential packaging and paper recycling in British Columbia under an extended producer responsibility program.

Normand Gadoury, Vice-President of Innovation and Infrastructure Projects at co Entreprises Qubec, stated: With the expansion of producer responsibility programs across Canada, collection systems are now accepting a broader range of flexible plastics. Understanding the composition of these materials is more important than ever.

Author: Maya Henderson