Recyclability

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE CERTIFICATION?

The RecyClass Recyclability Certification evaluates the compatibility of plastic packaging with the entire waste management chain, which includes collection, sorting, recycling, and the ability of the recycled material to be reused in its original application.

Three recyclability audit evaluations are available under RecyClass Recyclability Certification:

  • Letter of compatibility assesses the technical recyclability of semi-finished packaging from A to F. This certificate is intended for Business-to-Business communications only.
  • Design for Recycling Certification assesses the technical recyclability of final plastic packaging from A to F. It looks at how compatible the design of a product is with state-of-the-art recycling processes in Europe. The results of this assessment enable both Business-to-Business and Business-to-Consumer communications, but certification marks cannot be used on packaging.
  • Recyclability Rate Certification assesses the effective, overall recyclability of final plastic packaging, taking into consideration how it would be processed within the collection, sorting, and recycling infrastructures in a specific geographical area. With this assessment, companies can use the certification marks on packaging to inform consumers of its recyclability within their region.

The Audit Scheme requirements were developed in line with the and are updated based on the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines twice per year.

All your questions answered

Before starting the process, find the answer to all your questions about the RecyClass Recyclability Certification below:

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

the process in a nutshell

  • 1Check your eligibility for the Certification
  • 2Run an analysis in RecyClass Online Tool
  • 3Choose a Certification Body and submit an application
  • 4Sign a Certification Agreement and provide information
  • 5Organise an audit and obtain a Certificate
  • 6Use the RecyClass claims and logos to raise awareness
  • 1

    Check your eligibility for the Certification

    To be eligible for the recyclability assessment, all design features of your packaging must be covered by the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines. 

    Moreover, only final packaging as placed on the market is eligible for the Certification, as any further alteration of the design may change the recycling compatibility. Nevertheless, semi-finished packaging can still be evaluated and receive a Letter of Compatibility. 

  • 2

    Run an analysis in RecyClass Online Tool

    As a next step, surf to the RecyClass Online Tool and start a free self-assessment analysis. This will help the RecyClass team understand the recyclability of your product according to our standards.

  • 3

    Choose a Certification Body and submit an application

    To get certified, you are invited to contact one of the Certification Bodies listed below who will guide you through the process. Recognised Certification Bodies are independent third-party bodies.

    LIST OF CERTIFICATION BODIES TO CONTACT

  • 4

    Sign a Certification Agreement and provide information

    Sign a Certification Agreement and an NDA to officialize the application. Certification Body will provide a list of documentation needed to assess the process and products to be certified prior to the audit.

  • 5

    Organise an audit and obtain a Certificate

    The Certification is granted after the auditor successfully carries out the audit. The Certificate is valid for three years. After that, the audit must be renewed.

    The Letter of Compatibility possesses the same conditions of validity. 

  • 6

    Use the RecyClass claims and logos to raise awareness

    Organizations are welcome to use the corresponding RecyClass logo for certified products.

    More information on how to use the logos and claims can be found in the Use of Claims Guidance.

    SEE USE OF CLAIMS GUIDANCE