December 14, 2025

Why “recyclable” cartonboard isn’t always recyclable

As sustainability expectations rise and packaging regulations tighten across Asia and Europe, more B2B companies are choosing cartonboard to replace plastic packaging. Cartonboard is often marketed as a sustainable, recyclable packaging material. But the reality is far more complex.

Many businesses are unaware that not all cartonboard labelled as ‘recyclable’ is actually recyclable in practice. Certain chemical additives can prevent the fibers from breaking down in recycling mills, pushing supposedly “green” packaging straight into landfills.

This article explains why this issue matters to brand owners, packaging engineers, and procurement teams – and how Singapore companies can choose truly recyclable cartonboard going forward.

recyclable-cartonboard

What makes some cartonboard non-recyclable?

Some manufacturers use wet-strength additives to improve durability and water resistance in low-strength boards. These additives chemically crosslink cellulose fibers, making the board more resistant to tearing when exposed to moisture.

While this improves performance, it creates a major problem during recycling.

Traditional paper recycling relies on the ability to:

  1. Mix cartonboard with water.
  2. Break down fibers into a pulp.
  3. Reform them into new paper products.

But wet-strength-treated cartonboard doesn’t break down easily. The fibers remain bonded and cannot be separated, meaning:

  • Mills rejects the material.
  • The fibers can’t be recovered.
  • It ends up incinerated or landfilled.
  • The circular fiber loop is broken.

For brands investing in sustainability, this is a serious hidden risk.

Are wet-strength additives actually necessary?

In some industries, yes, such as medical papers, hygiene products, tissues, and applications requiring consistent wet performance.

But in packaging?

Usually not.

In many cases, wet-strength additives are used to compensate for cartonboard that lacks inherent strength. Outdated industry standards sometimes require unnecessary wet-strength tests that no longer reflect real-world use.

What are the better alternatives for true recyclability?

Brands can achieve high performance without additives by choosing:

High-strength cartonboard made from long, strong virgin fibers

These fibers naturally offer better wet stability and durability.

Functional coatings instead of fiber additives

Moisture barriers, such as polymer curtain coatings or thin laminates, can protect the board without interfering with recycling. These coatings are easily separated during pulping, allowing the fibers to be recovered.

Additive-free board that meets future recyclability requirements

This ensures compliance with upcoming packaging regulations.

Global regulations are changing, fast

Under the upcoming PPWR legislation in Europe, any paper packaging with less than 70% recyclability will no longer be allowed on the market after 2030.

Even though Singapore is not under EU law, global brands and regional suppliers will shift toward materials that meet international standards.

Companies using wet-strength cartonboard risk falling behind.

Key takeaway for Singapore B2B Brands

If your sustainability strategy relies on cartonboard, ensure that it is:

  • Additive-free
  • Truly recyclable
  • Made from strong fibers
  • Accepted by mainstream recycling mills

Choosing the right cartonboard is not only an environmental decision. It’s a future-proofing strategy for compliance, circularity, and brand trust.