The Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR) has submitted a draft update of the minimum standard for recyclable packaging design.

 

The content of the minimum standard for measuring the recyclability of packaging is updated every year in consultation with the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) in accordance with Section 21 of the German Packaging Act (VerpackG). The background to the review is that packaging should become more recyclable and environmentally friendly in order to meet the recycling quotas defined in the Packaging Act. The dual systems are obliged to provide financial incentives for the recycling-friendly design of packaging in accordance with the minimum standard. The changes now planned according to the current draft affect, among other things, flexible packaging made of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) that is smaller than DIN A4, as well as large-format films (> DIN A4) made of PP. These are classified as "non-recyclable" in the draft, as are certain dimensionally stable monolayer packaging made of PET, packaging made of dimensionally stable and expanded polystyrene (PS), and fiber-based composite packaging. By providing itemized proof, including all quantity records, distributors of the products concerned can prove that the packaging is recycled in a "high-quality mechanical recycling process". The dual systems can issue the individual certificates. The template for the new minimum standard for measuring the recyclability of packaging is still in the consultation phase until July 14. Distributors and packaging manufacturers can report their objections to the central body until then. After completion of the consultation and subsequent revision, the final version of the Minimum Standard Edition 2023 is scheduled to be published on September 1, 2023.
 

Sources:

• Kunststoff Information (July 7, 2023)
• Photo: © unsplash.com, Rebecca Bliklen