Plastics

APR introduces postconsumer resin certification program

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), Washington, has announced a process to endorse companies that provide third-party certification of postconsumer resin (PCR) and to promote APR member companies that receive certification. To support and grow the use of PCR, APR says it understands it is essential that PCR certification be reliable, consistent and accessible by producers and users of recycled plastic resins.

“The intent of APR’s PCR Certification Program is to actively promote APR member companies that sell certified PCR materials,” says Liz Bedard, director of rigid plastics recycling programs at APR. “This program was developed in response to a growing demand from APR members and stakeholders across the plastics value chain.”

APR’s PCR Certification Program includes three components:

1. APR endorses qualified third-party firms to conduct certifications. As of March 26, the association lists AMI Environmental Testing, Oceanside, California, and UL Verification Services Inc., Northbrook, Illinois, as endorsed certification companies.
2. Plastic reclaimers hire the APR-endorsed companies to certify their PCR.
3. APR members present their PCR certification to APR for nationwide promotion.

California Senate Bill 270 creates standards, including use of recycled content, that reusable bags distributed or sold in California must meet. The APR says any plastic reclaimer’s PCR that has been certified under California’s SB 270 requirements will be considered certified.

APR has outlined the program goals:

• provide reclaimers with confidence that the endorsed certification companies adhere to a clear, consistent definition of PCR that aligns with the ISO 14021:2016 definition;
• “level the playing field” by endorsing multiple, credible third-party PCR certifying bodies; and
• increase manufacturers’ and brand owners’ access to and confidence in PCR supply that meets their needs across diverse applications.

“The APR PCR Certification Program promotes the critical link between the reclaimer actually making PCR and the customer wanting to use PCR,” says Greg Janson, president of QRS Recycling, St. Louis, and co-chair of the APR PCR Certification subcommittee. “The program will undoubtedly enhance the brand equity of PCR in the marketplace, helping to ensure that PCR receives the value it deserves,” he adds.