It used to be practically nonexistent to really recycle bags and film wraps. Rigid containers led the way on the recycling front. But a new study indicates that it’s much more than possible. More than 91% of the U.S. population can actually recycle plastic bags locally and nearly 75% of people living in the U.S. can recycle other types of flexible plastic wraps in their communities.

Seventy-two percent of U.S. companies claim that sustainability influences their purchasing decisions and that it is an important factor when choosing service suppliers, says a survey by cloud computing firm Rackspace Hosting.

We’re at a point in the year when surging energy prices are putting the spotlight on conservation. Here’s a critical list from Rexel Holdings showing ways to boost energy efficiency.

More large U.S. food and beverage companies are dealing with the idea of ‘extended producer responsibility,’ and are recycling their product packaging as part of the cost of doing business. Last year, for example, some 11 million six-oz. yogurt cups were collected through a recycling program, according to Stonyfield Farm, the New Hampshire yogurt maker. Opposition to mandated responsibility for packaging after use is growing just as much, even among companies that are already required to do it abroad.

According to the website, ideafinder.com, we consume more than 4.3 billion lb. of snack food a year, which could be why snacks may soon end up becoming America’s favorite meal. What an interesting time for Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery to celebrate its centennial anniversary. Coincidentally, the Snack Food Association (SFA), Arlington, Va., an international association that has manufacturing members, including snack manufacturers and suppliers to the snack industry in more than 50 countries around the world, is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2012. We congratulate the SFA on an incredible job.

Consumer-products giant Procter & Gamble Co. says it wants to develop more products that are kinder to the environment. Yet, few consumers are willing to pay more for green products or make tradeoffs when it comes to product performance.

Bairicade XT food packaging offers an enhanced barrier, sustainability and economical advantages.