Wilmington-based firm Atlantic Packaging has launched a recyclable can carrier system to replace plastic ring handles, according to an announcement Monday. 

The Fishbone beverage carrier is a curbside-recyclable, biodegradable and performance-tested product that aims to eliminate single-use plastic from beverage packaging, a news release stated.

The carrier will be manufactured at Atlantic Packaging's facility in Tabor City, but the marketing side will be managed in Wilmington, officials said Tuesday.

Fishbone replaces single-use plastics with paper-based can carriers that use less material than full cartons. 

“Fishbone carriers are available for standard cans as well as Alumi-Tek bottles in both 4-pack and 6-pack formats and are sealed with a recyclable, compostable water-based barrier coating for moisture resistance,” the release stated.

Bringing the system to market has been a collaboration between Fishbone Packaging Inc., the innovators of the Fishbone carrier design, and Atlantic Packaging, the licensee of Fishbone Packaging.

Atlantic will handle the customer experience, from product ordering and delivery, to equipment sales and support, according to the release.

Atlantic Packaging President Wes Carter said in the release, "As an industry, we have to acknowledge that single-use, consumer-destined plastic packaging creates environmental pollution that isn't sustainable for our planet. For these reasons, polyethylene plastic beverage rings have been problematic packaging since their introduction decades ago. 

"Atlantic and Fishbone have collaborated to bring the first ever 100% curbside recyclable paperboard beverage carrier to the marketplace. This sustainable Fishbone solution addresses all environmental concerns, and also is highly marketable for our customers."

Fishbone officials said they “have a long-standing and successful working relationship with Atlantic Packaging and this alliance has been developed to better serve and to grow sustainable, impactful and consumer-friendly packaging with our shared values."