our work in action
At 4evergreen, more than 380 experts from across the paper-based packaging value chain are working together to develop practical, evidence-based tools that support a low carbon, climate neutral society.
Our guidelines and protocols are designed to improve circularity at every stage of the packaging life cycle. They are built on rigorous testing, expert consensus and real-world application. Each document is a living resource, continuously updated to reflect the latest industry knowledge.
Our initial focus was on packaging compatible with conventional recycling mills. Today, our scope includes packaging that requires flotation deinking and specialised recycling processes.
“Discover the Alliance’s milestones on our brochure, page 2”
WS-2 Circularity by Design Guideline (2026)
This guideline offers practical design recommendations for paper-based packaging, focusing on household and on-the-go applications. It helps designers create packaging that is easier to collect, sort and recycle from the start.
Version 4 builds on the technical foundation of previous editions, offering clearer pathways for producers, converters, and brands to design paper-based packaging that moves efficiently through collection, sorting, and recycling systems. The guideline continues to cover three recycling pathways: paper mill with conventional recycling process, paper mill with flotation–deinking recycling process, and paper mill with specialised recycling process, while improving terminology, definitions, and practical guidance to ensure better alignment across the value chain. A significant addition is the new Sorting Disruptors chapter, which explains how certain components or design choices can interfere with sorting and misdirect paper–based packaging into incorrect streams. This section helps designers anticipate sorting challenges early in the design process and reduce yield losses.
This living document is updated regularly to reflect the latest industry insights.
