Charter Next Generation (CNG) has established a strategic collaboration with NOVA Chemicals for high-quality recycled polyethylene (rPE) for advanced flexible-packaging applications. The relationship advances CNG’s commitment to circularity, innovation, and a lower-carbon future, the company says in a press release.
CNG and NOVA Chemicals will procure rPE resin under the brand name SYNDIGO™. This post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, sourced from recycled film and plastic packaging, offers a lower-emission alternative to virgin polyethylene. It is now being successfully integrated into CNG’s operations.
“We are excited to take this next step in our sustainability journey,” says John Garnett, senior vp-Technical, Sustainability, and Innovation at CNG. “By commercializing PCR content into everyday packaging, we’re helping build a more circular flexibl- packaging economy—delivering high-performance specialty films and advanced materials that reduce virgin plastic use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and build a stronger end-market for PCR materials.”
This collaboration supports the growth of CNG’s GreenArrow™ portfolio, which includes recycle-ready (1), recycled content, compostable, and low-carbon products. With applications in cereal bags, shrink film, and household overwrap for items like napkins and paper towels, these rPE-based films offer both performance and environmental benefit—meeting the evolving sustainability goals of brands and retailers.
“Our long-standing partnership with CNG is grounded in shared values: performance, consistency, and a clear vision for a circular economy,” adds Greg DeKunder, vp-NOVA Chemicals Circular Solutions. “By combining our resin innovation with CNG’s manufacturing expertise, we’re advancing PCR adoption across the flexible-packaging industry. It’s a powerful collaboration that brings together the strengths of both our SYNDIGO™ and GreenArrow™ brands.”
A key strength in the relationship is the Midwest-based supply chain. CNG’s operational footprint across Wisconsin and Ohio aligns seamlessly with NOVA Chemicals’ new recycling facility in Connersville, IN, which began production in early 2025. The facility is expected to produce more than 110 million lbs of rPE annually, making it one of the largest and most advanced plastic-film recycling operations in North America.
- Recycle-ready measures packaging designed for recyclability with current technology, following standards from the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR), Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging (CEFLEX), and similar organizations. This metric does not reflect the actual amount of flexible packaging that is recycled.