Highlights

• Greiner Packaging introduces K3® cups with recycled polystyrene in Switzerland from 2026.
• Collaboration with Swiss dairy processors promotes sustainable packaging and the circular economy.

Starting in 2026, buoyed by sustainability, Greiner Packaging will produce K3® cups with recycled polystyrene (r-PS) content at its Diepoldsau site in Switzerland.

The initiative, which is a new start in sustainable packaging for the Swiss dairy market, reduces dependency on virgin polystyrene as well as lowers CO₂ emissions by around 10% compared with traditional K3® multipack cups.

Through technological innovation and close collaboration between Swiss dairy processors and Greiner Packaging, the project’s object is to develop environmentally responsible packaging solutions.

Read More: The Future of Sustainable Packaging: Embracing Eco-Friendly Solutions

K3® Cups with Recycled Polystyrene Reduce CO₂ Emissions

The introduction of mechanically recycled polystyrene in K3® cups will gradually extend to the entire multipack range commonly used for yogurt and other dairy products in Switzerland.

The cups feature an ABA layer structure, where the inner and outer layers (A) use virgin polystyrene to keep up product safety, while the middle layer (B) contains recycled PS.

This design allows for a considerable share of recycled material without affecting quality or food safety, thereby offering sustainable consumption options that do not require changes in consumer behaviour.

Collaboration with Swiss Dairy Processors Strengthens Sustainability

Greiner Packaging works with Emmi and Elsa Group to implement this eco-friendly solution. The dairies bring their product expertise, whereas Greiner provides its technological clout.

By bringing together local knowledge and recycled materials, the project supports the circular economy and reduces the environmental footprint of packaging.

Also Read: The Silent Shift: How UK Retailers Are Redesigning Packaging for a Greener Future

The partnership also puts across a message that sustainable packaging benefits through association among manufacturers and suppliers in the Swiss market.

Environmental Benefits of K3® Cups and r-PS Integration

The K3® cup already incorporates a carton layer made mostly from recycled cardboard, reducing plastic consumption and simplifying material separation for recycling. Adding r-PS ups sustainability by replacing part of the virgin polystyrene in the cup structure.

For consumers, this means high-quality, food-safe packaging with less carbon footprint.

The solution is a practical, environmentally friendly choice for both manufacturers and shoppers.

Tobias Strasser, Managing Director, Greiner Packaging Switzerland, said: “With the introduction of K3® cups containing r-PS, we are setting a milestone for sustainable packaging in Switzerland. We are proud to close the polystyrene loop together with strong partners while still meeting the high standards of product safety and quality."

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Source: Greiner Packaging