Flexible packaging is ubiquitous, yet much of it is not recyclable at scale due to the current lack of consistent materials-recovery infrastructure. In Ann Arbor, Recycle Ann Arbor has noted that they receive significant amounts of flexible packaging, but their current infrastructure cannot process these materials.

Amcor, a large producer of flexible food, beverage, and pharmaceutical packaging, is working toward making all of its products recyclable, reusable, or compostable by 2025. In partnership with Amcor, a team of 2024 Dow Fellows worked to identify solutions for improving flexible packaging recycling in Ann Arbor. Through stakeholder interviews and market research, the team evaluated collection options and developed both short- and long-term strategies to enhance recycling efforts.

Recommendations from the team include expanding existing store drop-off programs as a short-term solution, while also investing in upgrading Ann Arbor's curbside pickup system to ensure long-term sustainability. By implementing these strategies, the project aims to create a more efficient recycling system in Ann Arbor, supporting broader sustainability goals for the community and beyond.