The BDE Bundesverband der Deutschen Entsorgungs-, Wasser und Kreislaufwirtschaft e. V. and the bvse-Bundesverband Sekundärrohstoffe und Entsorgung e. V. want to provide an impetus for the sustainable improvement of the recyclability of glass packaging with the publication of their guidelines.
The design guide for good recycling in glass offers practical, design-orientated recommendations for manufacturers, brands, suppliers and design agencies, with the overarching aim of maximising the quality and proportion of recyclable glass. This is particularly important with regard to the fulfilment of legal requirements - such as the implementation of the Green Deal and the planned sustainability classifications as part of the licensing process.
At the same time, the glass recycling industry is facing considerable challenges. Despite continuous investment in modern technology for the efficient removal of impurities, residual amounts of impurities affect the quality and quantity of the recycled glass, that can be fed back into the manufacturing process.
„Our guidelines illustrate how crucial it is to avoid packaging components that are difficult to recycle right from the product development stage. By implementing targeted recommendations in close cooperation with the players in the value chain, we can significantly increase recycling rates in glass and strengthen the sustainable circular economy.“
Dr Andreas Bruckschen, Deputy Managing Director of the BDE
The central recommendations of the guidelines include the reduction of packaging elements, such as small and easy-to-remove labelling, as well as the Avoidance of aluminium roll-on foils and difficult-to-remove plastic labels with waterproof adhesive systems. In addition, decorations that are completely opaque and therefore cannot be recognised by the sorting technology, such as varnishes and coatings, should be avoided.
„Electronic components that are firmly attached to the glass packaging, such as LED illuminators or RFID chips, are particularly problematic. Illuminants and batteries/rechargeable batteries cannot be sorted out in glass recycling plants with one hundred per cent certainty and sent for proper recycling. They pose a considerable fire risk.“
Eric Rehbock, Managing Director of the bvse
On the other hand, glass packaging with a minimise the number and quantity of additional design elements. The glass mould should aim to create completely and easily emptying containers and use closure systems that can be completely separated from the glass container in the recycling process.
The guide is now available on the BDE and bvse website and can be downloaded free of charge. download ready.
Source: BDE
