Over the past decade, RecyClass has advanced knowledge of packaging recyclability and is now extending its efforts to promote recyclability in the automotive and electrical & electronic equipment sectors. To support the industry in achieving full circularity for plastics, RecyClass develops sector-specific Design for Recycling Guidelines to help determine whether the components of a product are compatible with a given recycling stream. The Guidelines are regularly updated in line with the testing results generated via RecyClass Testing Campaigns or Technology Approvals.
Features that are not covered yet by the Guidelines can be tested following the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocols.
Consult RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines to understand if packaging features, such as caps, labels or adhesives, are compatible with a given recycling stream.
HOW TO READ THE GUIDELINES?
The RecyClass Guidelines are based on a traffic-lights system:
Full compatibility
Green column gathers the preferred design features, that guarantee the best recyclability and quality of the recyclate.
Limited compatibility
Yellow column lists the second choices for each packaging feature, that have been tested or are known to slightly impact the recycling process and/or the quality of the recyclate.
Non compatibility
Red column classifies the detrimental and disqualifying features that should be avoided when designing packaging, as these strongly impact the recycling process and/or the quality of the recyclate.
PET bottles
(transp. clear/light blue, coloured, white opaque)
PET Thermoforms
Transparent clear and coloured
PE films
(natural and coloured)
PP films
(natural and coloured)
HDPE containers & tubes
(natural, white and coloured)
PS containers
(natural, white and coloured)
PP containers & tubes
(natural, white and coloured)