From Virgin Plastic to ReCree8® Recycled Bin Liners
PCR bin liners are helping Melbourne councils reduce their reliance on virgin plastic while keeping waste collection practical, durable and cost-effective.
Across Australia, councils and contractors are moving away from oxo-degradable plastic and traditional virgin plastic packaging. These materials create growing challenges for landfill, recycling and long-term environmental responsibility.
As a result, many organisations now need a better option. ReCree8® recycled bin liners offer a certified solution made with post-consumer recycled plastic.
This case study explains how Melbourne councils used ReCree8® liners to reduce virgin plastic use, support circular procurement and cut more than two tonnes of plastic waste.
ReCree8® liners help turn post-consumer plastic waste into practical packaging for councils, contractors and distributors.
The Problem with Oxo-Degradable and Virgin Plastic Liners
For years, many councils used oxo-degradable plastic liners. However, these products do not fully break down in the way many people expected.
Instead, oxo-degradable plastic can fragment into smaller plastic pieces. These fragments can pollute waterways, affect soil quality and add to the wider microplastic problem.
At the same time, virgin plastic production depends on fossil-based resources. It also uses energy and creates greenhouse gas emissions during production.
Therefore, councils needed a better liner. They needed a product that could perform in daily waste collection while also supporting recycling and procurement goals.
The Solution: ReCree8® PCR Bin Liners
ReCree8® PCR bin liners use post-consumer recycled plastic. Instead of relying only on virgin resin, they help give used plastic material a second life.
Each liner uses at least 30% ReCree8® resin. This resin comes from post-consumer recycled plastic and supports a more circular approach to soft plastic packaging.
More importantly, the range gives councils and contractors a product they can use with confidence. It combines recycled content, reliable performance and certification support.
Certified
Backed by GECA for trust, transparency and procurement confidence.
Reliable
Designed for strength, durability and consistent waste handling.
Practical
A cost-conscious alternative to liners made only from virgin plastic.
In simple terms, ReCree8® liners help councils reduce virgin plastic use without sacrificing everyday performance.
Results: Recycled Liners Compared with Virgin Plastic
In just 12 months, Melbourne councils purchased thousands of ReCree8® recycled liners. The switch delivered measurable environmental benefits when compared with liners made only from virgin plastic.
The results show how recycled plastic packaging can support real procurement goals. In addition, they show that councils can reduce waste while still choosing a practical product for daily operations.
🌍 Virgin plastic avoided
🌱 Greenhouse gas emissions reduced
💧 Water savings achieved
⚡ Energy savings supported
All figures are calculated using the ReCree8® Impact Calculator, based on ISO-certified methodologies.
Partner Feedback on ReCree8® Liners
“We knew oxo-degradable bags were not the answer. ReCree8® fit perfectly with where the industry is heading. thinkpac’s service and waste management support have been excellent. No other manufacturer went the extra mile like they did.”
Industry Recognition for Recycled Plastic Packaging
ReCree8® Transparent PCR Bin Liners were named a finalist in the ISSA Innovation Awards for Environmental Awareness and Sustainability.
This recognition highlights the role that recycled plastic packaging can play in reducing plastic waste, supporting procurement goals and helping organisations move toward extended producer responsibility.
Why Recycled Bin Liners Matter for Councils, Contractors and Distributors
The switch from virgin plastic to post-consumer recycled liners matters because it gives different stakeholders a practical way to support waste reduction.
For distributors
ReCree8® offers a stronger tender position, supported by certification and impact data.
For councils
Recycled liners support waste management goals and reduce reliance on virgin plastic.
For businesses
Recycled plastic packaging helps show practical action on sustainability goals.
Ultimately, this change helps organisations reduce demand for virgin plastic, improve supply chain resilience and support a more circular future.
Further Reading on Recycled Plastic and Certification
For more background on recycled content claims and environmental certification, visit
GECA.
You can also learn more about responsible packaging through the
Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation.
These resources help procurement teams understand recycled content, product claims and packaging compliance in Australia.
Ready to switch?
Switch to ReCree8® PCR Bin Liners
Use the ReCree8® Impact Calculator to see how much plastic, water and energy your organisation can save by choosing recycled liners over virgin plastic alternatives.
You can also email info@thinkpac.com.au to discuss ReCree8® liner options.
