Colgate-Palmolive's journey to recyclable toothpaste tubes

In 2013, Colgate-Palmolive embarked on an ambitious project to revolutionize the packaging of toothpaste tubes. Traditionally crafted from a mix of various plastics and aluminum, these tubes were notorious for their incompatibility with standard recycling processes. Colgate-Palmolive's initiative aimed to address this challenge head-on.

Innovating for sustainability

The company's objective was clear: to develop a toothpaste tube made from plastic laminate that could be recycled in the same way as laundry detergent bottles and other HDPE (high-density polyethylene) containers. Achieving this would not only represent a significant advancement in packaging sustainability but also set a new industry standard. In a move to foster widespread adoption, Colgate-Palmolive made the decision to share its breakthrough technology with others, including direct competitors.

A milestone achievement

As of March 21, 2024, Stina Inc. has reported that 90% of toothpaste tubes in the US are now designed to be compatible with the color HDPE bottle recycling stream. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone in the Tube Recycling Project, spearheaded by Stina Inc., to accelerate the adoption of recyclable tube designs across the industry.

The journey of innovation:

2013: Colgate-Palmolive undertakes the challenge to devise a recyclable toothpaste tube from HDPE, aiming for compatibility with standard plastic bottle recycling methods.
2014: The company initiates a comprehensive design and testing phase, exploring various HDPE materials and configurations, ranging from 7 to 20 laminate layers.
2016: Success is achieved as Colgate-Palmolive's packaging engineers create a soft, squeezable tube from HDPE.
2017: The recyclable tube is presented to the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), undergoing rigorous evaluation. By April 2019, it becomes the first tube to be recognized by APR as meeting the technical requirements for HDPE bottle recycling stream compatibility.
2018: Colgate-Palmolive commences technology-sharing sessions, holding approximately 80 meetings to encourage industry-wide adoption of recyclable tubes.
2019: The first recyclable tubes hit the market under the Tom’s of Maine brand, with Colgate brands following suit in 2020.
2021: The company is awarded U.S. Patent No. 10,889,093 for its innovative “Dimensionally Stable Recyclable Plastic Package.”

Looking ahead

Today, over 90% of Colgate-Palmolive's toothpaste tubes in the U.S. have transitioned to recyclable materials, with the company setting a goal to complete the global switch by 2025. However, the transition phase may present challenges, as not all communities may yet accept these tubes for recycling. Consumers are encouraged to consult local recycling programs for guidance.

Further information

For more insights into Colgate-Palmolive's commitment to sustainability, including its goals for making packaging reusable, refillable, or recyclable, the company's Sustainability & Social Impact report offers a comprehensive overview.

Colgate-Palmolive's journey towards creating recyclable toothpaste tubes exemplifies the company's leadership in sustainability and innovation. By sharing its technology and encouraging industry-wide adoption, Colgate-Palmolive is not only transforming its own products but also paving the way for a more sustainable future in packaging.