With demand for recycled resin and products rising fast, it is becoming increasingly imperative to put in place standards and processes that clearly establish and verify the recycled content of products. Third-party certification plays a crucial role in this.
However, for this to function correctly, PCR certification must be reliable, consistent, and accessible by both producers and users of recycled plastic resins, says the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR). APR has therefore developed a procedure to endorse companies that provide third-party certification of PCR.
Moreover, APR member companies that receive certification will also be promoted through this endorsement program. The idea behind the programme, which was developed in response to growing demand from APR members and stakeholders across the plastics value chain, is ultimately to increase supply and demand of PCR plastics.
Among other things, certification will serve to increase the access to and confidence in a high-quality PCR supply that meets the needs of both producers and brand owners across diverse applications. Implementation of PCR certification programme will enhance the brand equity of PCR in the marketplace, said Greg Janson, President of QRS Recycling and co-chair of APR’s PCR Certification sub-committee.
Not only will it offer assurance that the endorsed certification companies adhere to a clear, consistent definition of PCR that aligns with the ISO 14021:2016 definition, it will also “level the playing field” by endorsing multiple, credible third-party PCR certifying bodies that APR members and others can voluntarily utilise.
Under the programme, the APR will endorse qualified 3rd party companies to conduct certifications. The companies endorsed by APR will certify the PCR produced by plastic recyclers. APR members can present their PCR certification to APR for nationwide promotion. Additionally, PCR that has already been certified under the State of California’s SB 270 requirements will be considered certified PCR by APR.