The Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR) has recently unveiled an extension of its plastics recyclability program, offering an enhanced platform for component and packaging manufacturers. This initiative aims to acknowledge and incentivize investments directed at resolving recycling challenges and substituting problematic items within the plastics industry. For brands and retailers, the expanded program offers a sense of confidence and risk reduction, especially when making claims and adhering to voluntary or legislative sustainable packaging requirements. Additionally, the program contributes to the augmentation of high-quality postconsumer recycled content (PCR).

Focusing on polypropylene (PP) base resins, the APR's expanded program incorporates various aspects crucial to the recyclability of plastics. It covers areas such as direct print for PP packaging, closures, fitments, and liners for PP containers, complete and unprinted label constructions for PP packaging, PP containers/bottles/rigid packages, and overall PP packaging constructions. This comprehensive approach ensures that different facets of the polypropylene recycling process are addressed and optimized.

Looking ahead, the program's expansion is anticipated to encompass PET and colored high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers and packaging constructions. Additionally, recognition categories for natural HDPE packaging and polyethylene (PE) films are on the horizon, providing a more inclusive framework for recognizing achievements in recyclability. The APR has provided a detailed list of current and upcoming recognition categories on its Design for Recyclability Recognition Program page, underscoring its commitment to fostering sustainability in the plastics industry.

Ruben Nance, the director of the Preferred Design Recognition Program at APR, expressed the significance of the program's evolution over its two-decade history. Having reviewed and acknowledged packaging from over 120 companies, the program has played a pivotal role in driving the adoption of impactful innovations that enhance the recyclability of plastic packaging and mitigate plastic waste. Nance emphasizes that the expansion of the Preferred Design Recognition program is poised to streamline the identification of recyclable packaging solutions for brands and retailers, ultimately saving valuable time, effort, and resources.

The APR Design Recognition program offers three distinct paths for submission, catering to the nature of the item being presented. These paths include Preferred Design, Critical Guidance, and Responsible Innovation. Despite the chosen path, all submissions lead to the same level of recognition, symbolizing that the product has met the highest criteria for recyclability as outlined in the APR Design Guide. This streamlined approach ensures a standardized and rigorous evaluation process, reinforcing the credibility and integrity of the APR Design Recognition program.