APR relaunches Recycling Demand Champions Program

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), Washington, has relaunched the APR Recycling Demand Champions Program, which recognizes companies committed to the long-term use of North American postconsumer resin (PCR). The program also is supported by The Recycling Partnership.

“At a time when virgin plastic prices are dropping and imported plastic is on the rise, it’s critical to recognize companies that are supporting the North American recycling system by creating demand,” the organization says. “Recycling is a circular system that only works if there is a steady supply of materials being collected and processed, as well as reliable demand from companies committed to buying the recycled materials.

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“Stable demand for North American PCR is a critical step toward scaling plastic recycling, building and maintaining a circular economy, as well as reducing plastic waste.”

APR has highlighted a range of companies for their use of PCR sourced in North America, including:

• Amcor;
• Charter Next Generation;
• Kraft Heinz;
• Novolex; and
• Triton Group

APR says all Demand Champion companies utilize PCR, and its program recognizes consistent demand for North American PCR, which is necessary to scale recycling. Companies are evaluated on eight criteria based on the following actions:

• Commit to PCR use: Companies must integrate PCR into manufactured products or facility purchases, prioritizing certified North American PCR.
• Secure long-term PCR supply agreements: Companies must establish contracts for purchasing North American PCR and products containing recycled content.
• Expand PCR adoption: Companies must utilize PCR in nonstandard formats or specify PCR in purchased goods to drive market demand.

APR says its program plays a key role in its broader strategy to strengthen markets for PCR, which underpins the sustainability of the North American plastics recycling industry and helps drive a circular economy for plastics.

“APR commends these companies for making the commitments required to become an APR Recycling Demand Champion and stepping up to support consistent demand for North American PCR,” APR President and CEO Steve Alexander says. “This program is designed to incentivize long-term, contracted PCR demand to match increased collection volumes and scale plastics recycling.”