Most plastic packaging currently in circulation cannot be recycled, or only with great effort. Under constant observation and consideration of corresponding activities in the European area, harmonized guidelines for the environmentally sound development and production of plastic products and packaging (Design for Recycling) are being developed and discussed. The goal is to return the plastics to the cycle in a high-quality and low-pollutant manner, thereby reducing the environmental impact.
The demand for high-quality recyclates is high. It is a key element in the circular economy. Only with the reuse of recyclates, cycles are closed and the environmental benefit is optimized.
The theme platform “Design for Recycling Plastics” is a cooperation project of stakeholders along the entire value chain to promote a high-quality and sustainable circular economy for plastic packaging. It is divided into three subgroups, based on the different packaging groups:
• Topic platform 1: Bottles
• Topic platform 2: Cups, bowls, trays and blisters
• Topic platform 3: Films
Theoretical recyclability is the basis and prerequisite for actual recycling. In order to consider and ensure optimum recyclability of plastic packaging during packaging and product development, industry recommendations and specific “Design for Recycling” guidelines are developed, continuously revised and kept up to date. The theme platforms pursue the following goals:
• Reflect and update the CH guideline with EU standards accordingly
• Correctly apply D4R guidelines and understand recyclability assessments
• Exchange on good D4R based on concrete examples (good and bad)
• Exchange regarding internationalization and harmonization with the EU and international standards