The RAL Quality Assurance Association has introduced a standardised quality mark for products made from recycled polyethylene - such as packaging films, bags and carrier bags. The aim is to increase transparency regarding quality and recycled content. The initiative supports manufacturers in preparing for future legal requirements.
A new quality mark from the RAL Gütegemeinschaft „Folien, Beutel, Tragetaschen aus recyceltem Polyethylen e.V.“ (RAL Quality Association for Films, Bags and Carrier Bags made from Recycled Polyethylene) is intended to provide more guidance and reliability when purchasing plastic packaging in future. The quality mark identifies products made from recycled PE that fulfil certain quality standards - for example in terms of recyclate content, freedom from harmful substances and product safety.
According to the quality association, the new label is not only aimed at retailers, but also explicitly at commercial and industrial users of packaging films. The aim is to strengthen packaging made from polyethylene recyclate across the board and promote trust along the supply chain.
Standardised criteria for more transparency
Until now, Germany has lacked a recognised certification that provides more clarity on material quality, origin and limits of use for packaging films made from recycled plastic. The new RAL quality mark aims to close this gap. It is based on a recognised quality assurance system in which, among other things, the actual recycled content, chemical harmlessness and technical suitability for use must be verifiably documented.
According to the quality association, both end products - such as mailing bags, cover films or carrier bags - as well as manufacturing processes and materials used are to be tested. Documented evidence of the use of certified recycled PE is also a prerequisite.
Assistance for future duties
The initiative sees itself not only as a contribution to voluntary quality labelling, but also as preparation for upcoming legal requirements - particularly in connection with the European Packaging Ordinance (PPWR). Among other things, this provides for recyclate utilisation quotas and extensive verification obligations.
„With the quality mark, we are creating a practical standard that makes it easier for manufacturers, retailers and users of packaging to credibly switch to sustainable solutions,“ says Alexander Schulz, Managing Director of the Quality Association. Local authorities and public clients could also benefit from the clear labelling.
The implementation is being carried out in close cooperation with the German Institute for Quality Assurance and Labelling (RAL). The new quality mark is available immediately. Information on the application procedure and the test criteria is available from the Quality Association at their website ready.
