What is Recycled Content?
The proportion of a product or material made from recycled rather than virgin materials. Using recycled content typically reduces embodied carbon compared to virgin material production.
Why it matters
Specifying recycled content is one of the simplest ways to reduce the embodied carbon of products and packaging. It also supports circular economy objectives and is increasingly required by procurement policies and industry standards.
Example
A stationery brand switches from virgin to 100% post-consumer recycled paper for its notebook range. The change reduces embodied carbon per unit by 35% and is communicated through an on-pack environmental claim backed by verified data.
Related terms
Embodied Carbon
The total greenhouse gas emissions from the extraction, manufacture, transport, and assembly of materials used in a product or building. Embodied carbon is distinct from operational emissions that occur during use.
Circular Economy
An economic model that designs out waste through reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling. Circular economy principles help manufacturers reduce both material use and carbon emissions.
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