RecyClass updates plastic packaging recyclability guidelines after 20 testing campaigns. The European cross-industry initiative RecyClass has updated its Design for Recycling Guidelines and Recyclability Evaluation Protocols for all major plastic packaging streams, incorporating findings from more than 20 testing campaigns conducted in 2025.
Among the changes, RecyClass has shifted its recommendations on ink use for transparent films away from printing coverage and towards the percentage of ink by weight of packaging. A new colour module has been added to the sorting evaluation protocol for PET bottles to help preserve transparent, clear and light blue streams.
For flexible packaging, electron beam treatment of PE films and PVB-based inks for PE and PP films were confirmed as fully compatible. Further testing campaigns are already under way in 2026, RecyClass said.
Packaging firm Pact Group has invested in Plan B Circular, the UK textile-to-textile polyester recycler behind Project Re:claim, its joint venture with the Salvation Army Trading Company (SATCoL). The deal aims to scale polyester recycling ahead of EU legislation expected in 2028.
Sixteen international partners led by Danish Technological Institute have launched InFACT, a project to turn household flexible plastic waste such as crisp packets, coffee bags and meat films into new packaging, including food packaging. Less than 15 per cent of this material is currently recycled.