RecyClass announces new set of Design for Recycling Guidelines for plastic packaging streams; additions include design criteria for laminating adhesives, recommendations on use of EVOH in PS packaging, adhesives for labels in HDPE rigid packaging, more

July 14, 2023 (press release) –

Accelerating global harmonisation on plastic packaging recyclability

Following the testing campaigns commissioned by RecyClass, a new set of Design for Recycling Guidelines have been released for all plastic packaging streams[1]. By developing such fact-based guidelines, RecyClass provides the industry with ready-made solutions for improving the recyclability of plastic packaging.

A number of different components have been evaluated via independent testing facilities, to better understand the behaviour of common packaging technologies during recycling processes. These tests were carried out with standardised testing methods, as described in the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocols[2].

Notable additions to the Guidelines include a new design criteria for laminating adhesives, as well as recommendations on the use of EVOH in PS packaging, adhesives for labels in HDPE rigid packaging, and ethylene-acrylate copolymers in PE films, among others.

Besides generating additional knowledge when it comes to compatibilities of various packaging components, with this update of the Guidelines, RecyClass has taken the opportunity to close the gap in disparities with the recommendations given by the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR)[3] in the USA.

“Reliable, fact-based information is what has helped set RecyClass apart,” commented Paolo Glerean, chairman of RecyClass. “With the efforts of all the value chain players and through scientific data, RecyClass contributes toward the standardization of design for recycling guidelines, testing protocols and methodologies to support the plastic industry on its circularity journey.”

The latest design recommendations have been used to update the RecyClass Online Tool and the RecyClass Recyclability Certification Scheme. In parallel, new testing campaigns are already underway and will serve to further complement the recommendations found in the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines.

[1] RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines can be found here: https://recyclass.eu/recyclability/design-for-recycling-guidelines/

[2] RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocols for plastic packaging are available on the website.

[3] RecyClass and APR have established a collaboration fo drive worldwide harmonisation of plastic packaging recyclability. Read more here.

^{About RecyClass}

^{RecyClass is a non-profit, cross-industry initiative advancing recyclability, bringing transparency to the origin of plastic waste and establishing a harmonized approach toward recycled plastic calculation & traceability in Europe. RecyClass develops Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing methods for innovative plastic packaging materials which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the RecyClass Online Tool. RecyClass established Recyclability Certifications for plastic packaging, Recycling Process Certification and Recycled Plastics Traceability Certification for plastic products.}