International nonprofit the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) revealed the expansion of its post-consumer recycled (PCR) Certification Program. The move certifies the presence and verifies the percentage of PCR in finished and semi-finished plastic products, it says.
Previously, the program was focused on certifying PCR material produced by recyclers in pellet or flake form. Now, this coverage extends throughout the supply chain, allowing for those working with PCR to verify recycled content claims through independent third-party certification, APR shares.
Based on ISO chain-of-custody and traceability requirements, the new producer standard provides a “rigorous process” to verify that companies are using recycled plastics in the amounts that they claim. Companies that are certified will be listed in the APR Certified PCR Directory, creating a trusted resource for organizations opting for products and packaging made with certified PCR.
“Expanding APR PCR Certification to include producers and supply chain participants strengthens confidence in recycled content claims and supports the growing demand for transparency and accountability,” said Rita Phillip, program director for APR PCR Certification, in a statement. “This program helps ensure that companies claiming to use recycled plastic can substantiate those claims with independent, third-party verification.”
APR PCR Certification is increasingly recognized as a trusted tool for compliance and accountability, especially as demand for verified recycled content grows.
“Making new products from post-consumer recycled plastic — plastic packaging commonly recycled by households and businesses — is one of the most effective ways to reduce plastic waste and decrease reliance on virgin plastic,” said Steve Alexander, APR president and CEO, in a statement. “Because recycled content cannot be visually distinguished from virgin plastic, third-party certification is essential for verifying recycled content claims.”
Those interested in verifying the recycled content of their products or sourcing packaging and products made with certified PCR can learn more on APR’s website.
