U.K.-based RECOUP (Recycling of Used Plastics Ltd.) has launched RecyClassUK as U.K.’s new auditors for recyclability certification of rigid plastic packaging. RecyClass, which is run by Plastics Recyclers Europe, is an initiative to create a consistent measurement for the plastics packaging value chain both to analyze its current output and find the best way forward to improve recyclability.
According to a news release from RECOUP, the U.K.-based plastics recycling organization will manage RecyClassUK and will evaluate rigid plastic packaging in terms of recyclability, classifying the packs from Class A (recyclable) to Class F (not recyclable). A report will be provided, along with additional steps and recommendations to achieve greater recyclability of rigid plastics.
RECOUP says this new certification provides reassurance to the plastic packaging supply chain and complements the existing practical pack reviews at sorting facilities that RECOUP provides to members and nonmembers.
“Over the past 30 years, RECOUP have provided support for organizations to understand and improve the recyclability of plastic packaging,” says Stuart Foster, CEO of RECOUP. “This includes the ongoing review and understanding of each step of the plastic recycling journey, reviews of specific packaging items, publicly available guidance and case studies. There has been an increased demand for RECOUP to certify plastic packaging and ensure a recognized central and consistent point for plastic packaging recyclability reviews in the U.K., also ensuring alignment internationally where possible. We are looking forward to working with the RecyClass platform, which provides a fantastic opportunity to not only deliver these aims but also evolve and align the recyclability certification opportunity as part of a network.”