Toray Plastics (America) has joined the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC). The Sustainable Packaging Coalition is a membership-based collaborative that believes in the power of industry to make packaging more sustainable.

Toray’s parent company, Toray Industries, Inc., has been steeped in sustainable business practices for decades. Toray Plastics (America) launched its sustainability initiative in 2004. The program involves operating one of the larger solar farms in Rhode Island and two co-generation plants, zero landfill, waste recycling, and energy and water conservation. The company also manufactures ultra-thin, bio-based, solvent-free, and PVdC-free films. Research continues on other sustainability programs and the development of 100% biodegradable films.

In addition, Toray helps engineering students, who will be tomorrow’s packaging industry leaders by providing internships and scholarships for University of Rhode Island undergraduates.

“Toray’s collaborative, innovative spirit makes them a perfect fit for the SPC,” says Adam Gendell, associate director of the SPC. “We look forward to working with the Toray sustainability team in the future.”

“The SPC was a pioneer in bringing the packaging industry’s attention to the imperative for sustainable packaging, and we believe in its mission and programs,” says Chris Nothnagle, senior director of corporate marketing, Toray Plastics (America). “The Toray team is eager to help further the SPC’s goals by engaging with the organization’s leadership and members and contributing its knowledge and insights.”

Nothnagle notes that Toray Plastics (America)’s experience in its successful collaboration with customers, suppliers, the Rhode Island community, state government and businesses, and the University of Rhode Island will enhance its relationship with the SPC. “We believe that solutions to the problem of waste and pollution will be discovered more effectively when private, public and non-profit organizations gather around the table and work together with citizens.”

He explains that the entire Toray Industries organization is guided by a corporate philosophy that has the aim of contributing to society through the creation of new value with innovative ideas, technologies, and products.