RecyClass for packaging manufacturers
Verify recycled content and independently assess the recyclability of your packaging design
Packaging manufacturers may work across two distinct RecyClass areas: the material used in production and the design of the final packaging.
If you manufacture bottles, preforms, trays, containers, films, bags, sachets, closures or other packaging components, RecyClass Recycled Plastics Traceability Certification and RecyClass Recyclability may apply.
Recycled content and recyclability are different questions
Packaging manufacturers are often responsible for the material, process and product design
Recycled content and recyclability are separate assessment areas
Packaging manufacturers may be responsible for the material, manufacturing process and product design at the same time. Depending on your objectives, both Recycled Plastics Traceability and RecyClass Recyclability pathways may therefore be relevant.
Recycled Plastics Traceability verifies the actual recycled-material content. RecyClass Recyclability assesses whether the packaging design is compatible with the relevant collection, sorting and recycling systems.
Recycled-content claims depend on the origin of Recycled Input, the validity and scope of supplier certificates, material traceability in storage and production, and the physical chain of custody.
Certified material may be blended with virgin plastic, additives, masterbatches, pigments or fillers in a known, controlled proportion. PCR and PreCR content should be identifiable separately.
If recycled material is present in only one component or layer, clearly define what the declared percentage refers to: the whole package, its plastic fraction, a specific component or another appropriate scope.
A pathway for an intermediate product or design that is not yet complete packaging, such as a preform, body, film or another element intended for further assembly.
Covers a complete packaging design and the assessment of its technical compatibility with the relevant sorting and recycling stream in the European market.
The most comprehensive pathway for final packaging. It considers both the design and the actual collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure in the specified market.
Unusual materials, components or technologies may require additional verification, such as appropriate sorting or washing tests or other protocols. A positive Technology Approval for one component does not automatically determine the outcome for the whole package.
RecyClass classes and assessment results should not automatically be equated with PPWR classifications. Certification can provide verified technical data but does not, by itself, establish full legal compliance with the PPWR.
Tracing material from delivery to packaging
Traceability certification checks whether the recycled content in finished packaging is supported by actual production data and maintained traceability.
The complete combination of components matters
Distinguish legal requirements from certification
The PPWR introduces requirements covering areas such as recyclability and minimum recycled content. RecyClass certification can provide independent evidence in specific areas but does not replace a full assessment of legal compliance with the PPWR.
Frequently asked questions from packaging manufacturers
Does one test verify both recycled content and recyclability?
No. These are two independent areas with separate requirements and assessment processes.
Does a high rPET content mean high recyclability?
Not automatically. The complete packaging design, including additional components, affects the result.
Does RecyClass confirm compliance with the PPWR?
It should not be interpreted this way. Certification verifies a defined technical scope or traceability, while legal compliance depends on PPWR requirements and the relevant legislation.
Want to identify which RecyClass areas apply to your packaging?
Send us a description of your product, materials, recycled content and target market. We will help you distinguish the Traceability and Recyclability scopes.