Avery Dennison’s metallized labels recognized by APR

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has recognized metallized films from Avery Dennison for complying with its critical guidance for high density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycling.  

Avery Dennison, a global materials science and digital identification solutions company headquartered in Mentor, Ohio, is the first company to be recognized by APR for offering a portfolio of metallized label solutions capable of working with recycling systems to enable rigid plastic recycling. APR previously only recognized compliance for metallized labels under 2 square inches because the industry believed plastic bottles with larger labels would be rejected by recycling systems’ metal detectors. However, a study conducted by APR and Avery Dennison has confirmed that metalized films less than or equal to 30 square inches can be accepted by existing recycling streams.   

“We’re pleased to work with the APR to drive education around the compatibility of films with the recycling process while ensuring our own products promote circularity,” says Anh Marella, senior marketing director of strategic innovation and sustainability at Avery Dennison. “As a leading global provider of labeling solutions, Avery Dennison recognizes its responsibility to work with the industry to increase plastic recyclability. Advancing the circular economy is among our key sustainability priorities.” 

This APR recognition allows brands to balance packaging aesthetic and performance with their commitments to using recyclable materials. 

“Ensuring packaging is designed to be compatible with the recycling infrastructure is critical” says Curt Cozart, chief operations officer of APR. “Improperly designed packaging can be misdirected in the process at a time where we are critically short of material. We’re pleased that Avery Dennison has led this effort in providing a sustainable solution while at the same time meeting the brands desire for metallized labeling.” 

Learn more about the Avery Dennison Metallized Films portfolio here.