The online platform RecyClass released a procedure, called "RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PE Films", to assess the recyclability of plastic films in Europe with the goal of increasing circularity of packaging, according to Plastics Recyclers Europe (PRE, Brussels / Belgium; www.plasticsrecyclers.eu). The protocol aims to analyse the impact of different technologies on the recyclability of the PE film and flexible packaging recycling stream.

PRE created the RecyClass platform, a free online tool to guide companies on recycling plastic packaging, in June 2018 – see Plasteurope.com of 07.06.2018.

RecyClass chairman Paolo Glerean said, "Recyclability should not be decided subjectively. The various elements constituting a plastic packaging have to be tested, analysed and measured in a transparent and repeatable manner," adding that the aim of publishing specific testing protocols is to support all technical solutions and materials that improve recyclability of plastic packaging.

The protocol was developed in close collaboration with the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR, Washington, D.C. / USA; www.plasticsrecycling.org). Its content and methodology took into account APR’s Benchmark Polyethylene (PE) Films and Flexible Packaging Innovation Test Protocol. The protocol has been adapted where needed to the existing European standards and end-markets for recyclates.

Additionally, PRE partnered with the independent laboratory Centexbel – VKC (Kortrijk / Belgium; www.centexbel.be) to perform the recyclability tests according to the published protocol.

e-Service:
RecyClass "Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PE Films" (6 Sept 2018) as a PDF file