RecyClass Recyclability
Independent assessment of the recyclability of plastic packaging
RecyClass Recyclability assesses the extent to which a plastic packaging design is compatible with existing collection, sorting and recycling systems and whether the material recovered after recycling can be reused in new applications.
The assessment is based on the RecyClass Recyclability Methodology, current Design for Recycling Guidelines and the requirements of the applicable Audit Scheme. Depending on the packaging-development stage and the purpose of the assessment, three pathways are available: Letter of Compatibility, Design for Recycling Certification and Recyclability Certification.
The appropriate assessment depends on the project stage and objective
Packaging as a complete system of components
The assessment is not limited to the main polymer. Recyclability means, among other things, that packaging is collected for recycling or covered by an appropriate system, can be effectively recognised and separated during sorting, can be processed in industrially available recycling processes, and that the recovered plastic can be used as raw material for new products. All relevant design components and the availability of appropriate infrastructure matter.
Recyclability starts at the design stage
A small change in a component, colour, label or adhesive can affect sorting or the quality of the recovered plastic.
Not every component can be assessed from documentation alone
The result shows the level of packaging recyclability
The current RecyClass methodology uses classes A, B and C for packaging qualifying as recyclable. A negative result is also possible where packaging does not meet the minimum criteria. The detailed classification method depends on the applicable methodology and packaging type.
The more precise the packaging description, the more efficient the assessment
From project documentation to the RecyClass result
Frequently asked questions
How does Design for Recycling Certification differ from Recyclability Certification?
Design for Recycling Certification focuses on the technical packaging design. Recyclability Certification additionally considers the actual collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure for the relevant market.
What is a Letter of Compatibility?
It is a pathway for an appropriate semi-finished product or design that does not yet include all components of the final packaging.
Is the Online Tool result a certificate?
No. It is a self-assessment, not a certificate issued by a certification body.
Can one certificate cover several variants?
This may be possible if the variants meet the current Equivalent Packaging requirements.
Does RecyClass certification automatically mean compliance with PPWR?
It should not be interpreted that way. Legal compliance with PPWR follows from the Regulation and the relevant implementing and delegated acts.
Would you like to assess the recyclability of your packaging?
Send us the basic information about the design, materials, variants and target market. We will help identify the appropriate assessment pathway.