Weekly Roundup: RecyClass launches plastics recyclability assessment tool, EFBW advises on effective DRS implementation

12 Jun 2020 --- In packaging news this week, RecyClass introduced assessment methods to certify the recyclability of plastic packaging. The methods described are Design-for-Recycling Certification and Recyclability Rate Certification. Also, the European Federation of Bottled Waters (EFBW) published its recommendations on the key design features that contribute to the efficient introduction of Deposit Refund Systems (DRS). Chadwicks of Bury produced a differentiated lidding solution for the gourmet yogurt brand, The Collective.

In brief: Recycling assessment
RecyClass, an initiative aiming to help the plastics value chain find the correct way to approach and evaluate the design for recycling of packaging products, released comprehensive information on the assessment methods to certify the recyclability of a plastic package. The methods described are Design-for-Recycling Certification and Recyclability Rate Certification. The former assesses a packaging qualitatively based on the online, self-assessment RecyClass Tool, which at the end of the evaluation provides a class ranking from A to F to indicate its recyclability. The latter relies on a quantitative verification of recyclability of a packaging using a specific formula developed by RecyClass in line with the highest European standards. Both methodologies are based on the data compiled under the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the Recyclability Protocols results.

EFBW recommends placing DRSs in existing retail locations to enable consumer convenience. EFBW published its recommendations on the key design features that contribute to the efficient introduction of DRS. With the revision of the Waste Framework Directive in 2018, minimum requirements for Extended Producer Responsibilities were introduced. Yet, there are no guiding principles for DRS in the EU legislation whilst they have a critical role to play towards achieving the Single Use Plastics Directive’s objectives (90 percent collection by 2029 and 25 percent recycled PET by 2025), EFBW warns. Among the recommendations is consumer convenience: Deposit redemption points must be easily accessible and convenient, preferably placed in existing retail locations (the “return to retail” model). It must also be clear to consumers what material is included and what is not, as well as the deposit amount (i.e. with the amount of the deposit not included in the sales price of the product), EFBW advises.

In brief: Products and partnerships
Chadwicks of Bury, part of the Clondalkin Group, produced a differentiated lidding solution for the gourmet yogurt brand, The Collective. The pre-cut lids manufacturer created 12 different designs of the UV Flexo printed clear PET lids, each one featuring a different recipe with the method revealed upon opening. Utilizing the same innovative technology as Chadwicks’ unique coding concept, all the print is on the surface of the lids ensuring the printing ink does not come into contact with the product. Part of the print is covered by the design and is only revealed when the lid is peeled back.Chadwicks of Bury's lidding solution for the gourmet yogurt brand, The Collective.

Latvijas Finieris, a global developer, producer and supplier of birch plywood products, teamed with Stora Enso, taking the next steps towards replacing phenol – in resins used in plywood – with lignin. This new lignin-based glue significantly reduces the carbon footprint of plywood products from production to final end-use applications without compromising on technical performance. Lignin is a complex plant-derived polymer found in the cell walls of almost all dry-land plants. Stora Enso has been working on developing lignin-based resin since 2017 in close collaboration with Latvijas Finieris. Months of co-development, trials and industrial tests eventually led to the development of a lignin-based resin ideal for plywood products.

RWE and thyssenkrupp announced a partnership in which green hydrogen from an RWE Generation electrolyzer could help thyssenkrupp Steel Europe reduce CO2 emissions from steel production in the future. The energy company and the steel producer have agreed to work together towards a longer-term hydrogen partnership. The first hydrogen is set to flow to the Duisburg, Germany, steel mill by the middle of the decade. The companies agree that only electricity from renewable sources should be used to operate the electrolyzers.

By Joshua Poole

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