Using recyclate, but the right way

Recyclate use, please - but what is the best way to do it? In response to this question, several associations have now published a comprehensive information brochure that plastics processing companies can use as a quick reference guide.

In addition to the recyclability of plastic products, the reuse of recycled plastics is at the centre of efforts to improve recycling management. In practice, questions often arise as to when a material is to be categorised as a plastic recyclate and how a distinction can be made between post-consumer (PCR) and post-industrial recyclates (PIR). These and other questions are clarified in a joint handout from the Gesamtverband Kunststoffverarbeitende Industrie e.V. (GKV), the Bundesverband der Deutschen Entsorgungs-, Wasser- und Kreislaufwirtschaft e.V. (BDE) and the Bundesverband Sekundärrohstoffe und Entsorgung e.V. (bvse) and answered in a joint publication. explained using practical examples. The guide also provides information on traceability and product labelling.

„The use of recycled plastics makes an important contribution towards a climate-neutral circular economy, as it reduces CO2 emissions in product manufacturing and dependence on fossil raw materials. Recyclates are already irreplaceable for the supply of raw materials in the plastics industry and are becoming increasingly important„, says Dr Martin Engelmann, Managing Director of IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen e.V., responsible for the environment and consumer protection at GKV. „With the handout, we want to promote change in the industry and ensure a common understanding of the most important terms and transparency in communication„, says Engelmann.