- In May 2025, Kind Snacks, a brand owned by Mars Inc., announced the launch of the first curbside-recyclable paper wrapper in the U.S., beginning with its “Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt” bar. The initiative will roll out as a pilot project in May, aiming to replace plastic wrappers with a more sustainable, paper-based option. This marks a major advancement in snack food packaging sustainability and sets a precedent for eco-conscious innovation in the industry
- In April 2025, DS Smith, a fiber-based packaging manufacturer recently acquired by International Paper, introduced the GoChill Cooler, a fully recyclable and reusable alternative to plastic and Styrofoam coolers. Made from wax-free, corrugated board, the cooler offers a sustainable way to keep food and drinks fresh while minimizing environmental impact. This product highlights DS Smith’s commitment to replacing single-use plastics with circular, fiber-based solutions
- In October 2024, PetSmart collaborated with TerraCycle to initiate an in-store recycling program for empty pet food, treat, and litter bags made from flexible plastic. The PetSmart Pet Food & Treat Bags Free Recycling Program was launched in 100 stores across Arizona and New Jersey, providing a disposal solution for traditionally non-recyclable packaging. This partnership promotes responsible waste management and encourages sustainable habits among pet owners
- In August 2024, the North American division of DS Smith unveiled PackRight 2.0, a collaborative workshop designed to help businesses in e-commerce and FMCG sectors improve their packaging sustainability. Utilizing DS Smith’s Circular Design Metrics, the program aims to foster innovation through tailored, environmentally responsible packaging strategies. This initiative reinforces DS Smith’s role in driving packaging transformation through collaboration and design excellence
