APR expands program to recognize sustainable packaging components

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), Washington, recently announced updates to its APR Design for Recyclability Recognition Program, adding new packaging components that now are eligible for Preferred Design Recognition (PDR).

The organization says there are several paths to achieve APR Design Recognition, including PDR, but all paths confirm that a package or packaging component has met the highest criteria for recyclability according to the APR Design Guide. PDR is now available for 24 packaging components, including:

• blow molded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and containers;
• PET packaging constructs;
• natural and colored high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles and containers; and
• monomaterial PE stretch and collation shrink films.

APR says its Design Recognition helps component and packaging manufacturers meet clients’ goals for recyclable packaging and provides third-party validation that a package or packaging component’s design is compatible with the North American recycling system.

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“Since its inception, the APR Design Recognition Program has reviewed and recognized packaging from more than 120 companies and has led to the mainstream adoption of impactful innovations,” says Ruben Nance, APR program director for PDR. “One recognized component may be used on hundreds, if not thousands of different packages, so that one component can have a massive impact on plastics packaging sustainability. The APR Design Recognition Program provides a simple way to identify these types of trusted solutions from suppliers.”

The APR says brand and retailer procurement teams can save the time, effort and resources needed to identify and validate recyclable packaging through the APR Library of Recognized Solutions. The recently upgraded library now includes search, sort and filter capabilities. New products now are included in real-time, with ongoing additional improvements in searchability and categorization.

“More companies than ever are taking action to improve the recyclability of their packaging, which means less waste, more efficient use of limited natural resources and more high-quality PCR [postconsumer resin],” APR President and CEO Steve Alexander says. “We look forward to recognizing companies that demonstrate their commitment to developing sustainable packaging solutions.”

Interested parties can learn more about APR Design Recognition on the latest episode of APR’s podcast, Recycled Content, or register for its upcoming webinar, “APR Design Recognition 101: The Seal of Approval for Recyclable Plastic Packaging Design,” which will be held May 30 at 2 p.m. Eastern.