RecyClass publishes design for recycling book

Belgium-based RecyClass has published a design book clarifying the concepts of recyclability and design for recycling which are based on a science-driven approach. It also elaborates the concept of RecyClass design for recycling guidelines. RecyClass says the book can be used by all plastic industry actors working on designing recyclable plastic packaging.

The book provides a step-by-step explanation and guidance on how to design rigid and flexible plastic packaging to make it compatible with recycling, ultimately making it circular. It defines general principles and explains how the RecyClass design for recycling guidelines are to be interpreted.

Beyond providing insights into how the design for recycling guidelines work, the document examines the functioning of sorting and recycling processes, and how they determine packaging recyclability.

“Design for recycling is a crucial, first step in ensuring that a product will be recyclable at the end of its use phase,” says Paolo Glerean, RecyClass chairman. “It offers insights into how plastic packaging should be designed and how different components of packaging influence its compatibility with recycling. This approach leads to improved quality of recycled plastic, and thereby stimulates its uptake in new packaging applications.”

RecyClass Design Book is a result of a collaboration of the entire plastic value chain represented mainly by RecyClass members and its supporters, aiming to provide scientifically verified and fact-based guidance with the overall objective of fostering a positive environment for innovation that opens the door for a circular plastic future.

Companies eager to lead the move towards circularity can now look to RecyClass for a comprehensive tool-box to understand, assess and certify plastic packaging recyclability and to effectively transition from a linear to a circular plastic economy, the organization says.