How squeezable plastic containers are getting more sustainable in the US

Toothpaste tubes and other squeezable plastic containers are getting closer to being more sustainable in the US. — Robert Byron/Dreamstime/TNS

TOOTHPASTE tubes and other squeezable plastic containers are getting closer to being more sustainable in the United States. Some 90% of toothpaste tubes on the market are now made in a way that makes them compatible for recycling with HDPE, the same plastic used for products like shampoo bottles, according to research firm Stina Inc.

Overall, 75% of all the plastic squeeze tubes in the US – also used for personal-care products such as conditioner and lotion – now have the correct design. The technical milestone makes it more likely that the tubes US consumers recycle will actually get reclaimed.