Sorting Process

Sorting process
certification

Why Get
RecyClass Certified?

RecyClass Sorting Process Certification assesses the quality assurance systems in place at sorting centres and subsequent waste trading facilities, with a focus on traceability and origin verification of plastic waste. This certification offers a specific add-on module, Module Alpha. This module is mandatory for value chain actors that handle input materials destined for recycling into food-contact applications, as stipulated in EU Regulation 2022/1616. The scheme will operate from January 2026 onwards. If your company is interested in becoming certified, or if you are a Certification Body interested in being recognised to run audits for this certification scheme, please complete the following form.

Key Benefits of RecyClass Certification

Origin & Traceability Verification

Checks the origin of treated waste, as well as that it was traceable throughout the process and controlled by quality assurance systems.

Alignment with EU Legislation

Requirements of Module Alpha focus on pre-processing of waste in line with Regulation (EU) 2022/1616. This Regulation outlines that recycled plastic materials intended for food-contact use must be sourced from municipal waste, must be separately collected and originate from a country with equivalent plastics regulation.

Independent Third-Party Certification

Grants confidence and credibility through audits carried out by recognised certification bodies. Certification Bodies for this certification scheme are under recognition.

Reliable Traceability Claims

Supports your sustainability and compliance declarations with verified, traceable data.

How to get started?

Check your eligibility

To be eligible for RecyClass Sorting Process Certification, sorting centres must be covered by the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines.

Choose a Certification Body

To get certified, you are invited to contact one of the recognised, third-party Certification Bodies who will guide you through the process.

Sign the Certification Agreement

Sign a Certification Agreement and an NDA to officialise the application. The Certification Body will request a list of documents prior to the on-site audit.

Audit & Certificate

The Certification is granted after the auditor successfully carries out an on-site audit. The issued Certificate is valid for one year, after which it must be renewed.

Communicate your achievement

More information on the appropriate use of RecyClass Certification Marks and respective claims can be found in the RecyClass Use of Claims Guidance.

Certification Documentation

Audit Scheme documentation is periodically revised to safeguard the robustness of the Certification and ensure its relevance for the value chain.

For further information, please refer to the FAQ
section or contact us.