Technology Approval uses standardised testing at a RecyClass-recognised facility. The Technical Committee assesses the evidence and recommends an outcome; the Steering Board validates the final decision. Approval of a technology is not certification of every finished pack using it.
What if a new adhesive, barrier, ink, additive or other component is not yet covered by the Design for Recycling Guidelines?
Compatibility should not simply be assumed. RecyClass provides a standardised testing route using its Recyclability Evaluation Protocols.
Positive test results and the relevant Technical Committee’s assessment can support a Technology Approval for a defined technology and recycling stream, subject to the final approval procedure.
1. Technology Approval addresses innovations outside the guidelines
If the characteristic is already clearly covered by the current Design for Recycling Guidelines, starting a Technology Approval process is generally unnecessary.
Approval is particularly relevant where a technology is new or its behaviour in a given stream has not yet been sufficiently demonstrated.
2. The assessment concerns the technology and its tested application
The subject can be an adhesive, layer, ink, additive, label, RFID feature, valve or another design characteristic.
The result describes compatibility with a particular recycling stream under the conditions and configuration tested. It should not be treated as a certificate for the complete commercial packaging product.
3. The process starts by contacting RecyClass
The first step is to establish whether the proposed innovation needs an Approval process and which testing protocol applies.
RecyClass coordinates the process with recognised testing facilities and the relevant Technical Committee.
4. Testing follows a standardised protocol
Recyclability Evaluation Protocols specify sample preparation, test process stages and assessment criteria for the relevant streams.
The outcome therefore relies on data generated by a common method, rather than only on the component manufacturer’s declaration.
5. A recognised testing facility performs the tests
RecyClass requires Technology Approval testing to be carried out by an independent recognised testing facility using the applicable protocol.
The company must prepare suitable samples, technical information and details of the technology’s intended application.
6. RecyClass decides on Approval; Almaland does not issue it
Under Technology Approval Quality Management & Procedures v3.5.1, the Technical Committee evaluates the results and prepares its recommendation. The Steering Board validates the Approval Letter and takes the final decision; the RecyClass team communicates it to the applicant.
A certification body can use an existing Approval as evidence in a subsequent assessment of finished packaging, but does not itself issue the Technology Approval.
7. The outcome can indicate full or limited compatibility
Technology Approval describes the degree of compatibility of the tested technology with a specified recycling stream. RecyClass distinguishes, among other outcomes, full and limited compatibility.
Communication must reflect the actual result and the conditions of the Approval.
8. Approval mainly supports B2B communication
RecyClass presents Approval as a basis for business-to-business claims about a technology’s compatibility with the specified recycling stream.
For business-to-consumer claims about finished packaging, the appropriate certification of the complete product is needed.
9. Approval is not a certificate for every finished pack
Approval of an adhesive or sleeve does not automatically make every packaging design using it highly recyclable.
The final outcome also depends on component proportions, construction, other elements, sortability and all relevant guideline requirements.
10. Approval can inform future Design for Recycling Guidelines
RecyClass uses testing and approval results to develop technical knowledge. Where those findings are accepted through the applicable process, they can support future guideline updates.
The guidelines are therefore evolving documents: a feature considered innovative today may later become a standard listed option.
11. How a company can prepare
- Define the technology and target recycling stream.
- Collect the complete material specification.
- Identify conditions and levels of use.
- Prepare control and test samples.
- Check the relevant Recyclability Evaluation Protocol.
- Plan how the result will be used in later certification of the finished pack.
12. When Approval is not the appropriate route
If all features of the finished packaging are already clearly covered by the current Design for Recycling Guidelines, direct certification assessment may be more appropriate.
Technology Approval is a testing and assessment route for features needing scientific verification, rather than a “better certificate”.
Frequently asked questions
Does Almaland issue RecyClass Technology Approvals?
No. Approval follows the RecyClass process: recognised testing, Technical Committee assessment and recommendation, and final validation by the Steering Board.
Can a Technology Approval be used in packaging certification?
Yes. It can provide important evidence for a specific component or technology, but the finished packaging still needs a complete assessment.
Does Approval permit the RecyClass mark on the pack?
It must not be treated as certification of the finished product. RecyClass primarily positions it as a basis for B2B communication; the appropriate packaging certification and claims rules remain relevant.
Does every new component require testing?
No. If its characteristics are already covered by the current guidelines, an additional Approval process may be unnecessary.