UPM Raflatac is expanding its wash-off portfolio with new paper-label materials that enhance the recycling of PET and HDPE. The label materials have received European certifications of recyclability from Institut cyclos-HTP for PET and HDPE packaging, and they are part of UPM Raflatac’s SmartCircle portfolio.

“We are determined to develop solutions for circularity. While plastics have remarkable features to keep valuable content safe until consumption, we also seek ways to increase the share of certified renewable materials in the packaging that goes beyond fossils. Now, in addition to our multiple plastic wash-off solutions, we are excited to expand the offer into sustainably sourced paper labels. These innovations enable high-quality recycled PET and HDPE flakes to be used again as the label material separates cleanly in the recycling process,” says Sylwia Jurys, vice president, of paper laminates SBU EMEIA, UPM Raflatac.

The certifications verify that PET and HDPE bottles using the certified label materials are recyclable in the most common recycling processes. They separate cleanly from the recycled packages resulting in a greater yield of PET and HDPE. This allows the valuable PET and HDPE flakes to be recovered without contamination with the label materials. The flakes can be converted into new materials and may be used also within closed-loop systems. This reduces waste, increases the availability of recycled raw materials, and reduces the need for virgin plastic.

The recycling of plastic waste is a worldwide issue that calls for attention from every part of the recycling value chain. The EU’s Plastic Strategy foresees that by the year 2030, all plastic packaging should be reusable or recyclable in a cost-effective manner. To achieve these ambitious goals, the packaging itself as well as the recycling value chain must be designed to ensure the recyclability of the packaging.

“The right label material choice plays a critical role in enhancing the recyclability of any packaging. With the comprehensive SmartCircle portfolio we can offer our customers materials for many different purposes, enhance packaging sustainability, and support the shift to a circular economy,” Jurys says.

Institute cyclos-HTP is a company specializing in the classification, assessment, and certification of recyclability of packaging and goods as well as in research and development in the field.