RECOUP has updated its Recyclability by Design (RBD) publication, bringing things up to date with emerging requirements, and at a critical time for packaging recyclability with the impending increase of compliance costs associated with Extended Producer Responsibility.
Originally released in 2006, the RBD document from the group – a leading UK independent authority on plastics resource efficiency and recycling – has been regularly updated.
RECOUP says there is now a positive financial driver to make packaging fully recyclable and to progress circular economy ambitions. The financial implications of not adhering to recyclability standards, such as those set out by the group here, will significantly increase compliance costs and lowers organisations’ sustainability credentials.
RECOUP’s Head of Packaging Recycling and Design, Paul East, commented; “RBD is a reminder of the importance of designing for recycling, when making decisions, as well as for marketing and brand recognition. By using the recommendations within RBD, you will be ensuring that your plastic packaging is given the best chance to be recycled in line with upcoming legislation.”
The group said it has worked tirelessly to promote the core principles and good practice in pack design that give plastics packaging a greater chance of being recycled within the existing UK infrastructure, with RBD offering guidelines to help Packaging Technologists and Buyers ensure that their plastic is presented in the best way possible to the recycling chain.
There are continuous changes to recycling processes technology, and innovation continues in the packaging industry to help alleviate some of the challenges faced by recyclers. With valuable contributions from RECOUP members and colleagues from across the industry, RBD is agile and is continuously reviewed and updated to reflect these changes, including updated polymer-specific recyclability tables.
The updated Recyclability by Design guidance is available to view on the RECOUP website.
