How2Recycle On-Pack Labeling Elevates Sonoco’s EnviroCan to Support Circular Economy
Sonoco’s EnviroCan® Metal Bottom, a rigid paper container comprised of over 40% post-consumer recycled content, has always been recyclable. With 90% of fibers sourced from post-consumer recycled materials, this versatile packaging appeals to various products— snacks and cereals, beverages and beauty items.
Yet, despite its recyclability, containers like EnviroCan often end up in landfills due to lack of understanding and misconceptions about ‘mixed-use’ materials, which consumers or local recycling programs don’t always properly recognize.
Recycling Paper Cans Can Benefit the Environment
Research underscores the environmental advantages of recycling the EnviroCan. A Life Cycle Assessment conducted by Sonoco found recycling EnviroCan with its steel ends reduces global warming potential by 23.5%, compared to sending steel to a landfill, primarily due to the decrease in demand for iron ore, a key raw material in steel production.
According to the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), more than 70 million tons of scrap steel are processed by domestic mills each year, with over 80% of steel products made from recycled scrap. This emphasizes the critical role of recycling in reducing the environmental footprint of steel production.
A Steadfast Commitment to Recycling at Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs)
While the EnviroCan container is recyclable, increasing its acceptance at Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) and in municipality recycling guidance has been a priority for Sonoco. Over the years, the company has worked closely with municipalities and MRFs on education and awareness campaigns. The latest step forward came in 2024 when Sonoco submitted the EnviroCan design for pre-qualification under the How2Recycle® program.
How2Recycle Labeling: Clearer, More Effective
After extensive evaluation, the EnviroCan Metal Bottom received pre-qualification to carry the How2Recycle® ‘Check Locally’ label in February 2025, a significant milestone for the packaging industry, offering consumers clear, actionable guidance on how to recycle the EnviroCan properly. The label provides multiple benefits:
- Specifying recyclable components
The label clearly indicates which parts of the EnviroCan can be recycled, such as the paper container, steel end, closure or label. - Providing simple recycling instructions
Clear guidelines on how to recycle the packaging—whether through curbside pickup or drop-off locations—help eliminate confusion. - Highlighting local recycling regulations
The label encourages consumers to check with their local recycling program for specific guidelines.
Scott Byrne, Vice President of Global Sustainability at Sonoco, expressed the significance of this achievement: "With the How2Recycle pre-qualification, the EnviroCan solution not only meets customer performance expectations but also provides quantifiable sustainability benefits. It’s a smart and reliable choice for brand owners to advance their sustainability goals and contribute to a thriving circular economy."
The Future of Sustainable Packaging
As consumer demand for more sustainable packaging continues to rise, the EnviroCan Metal Bottom is poised to lead the way by reducing single-use plastic and fitting in with existing MRF infrastructure. More than 20% of the population now has access to a recycling program that accepts the EnviroCan.
Sonoco remains committed to improving packaging sustainability through innovative designs and partnerships with MRFs, local governments and consumers. Visit our corporate website to learn more about sustainability initiatives and discover other sustainable packaging solutions for rigid paper containers.