UPM Raflatac, a global supplier of innovative and sustainable self-adhesive paper and film products, has recently earned APR Design for Recyclability Recognition for its clear and white polypropylene (PP) labels with hotmelt, UPM Raflatac SmartCircleTM wash-off adhesive, and general-purpose acrylic adhesives.

This recognition from the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) validates that these labels meet or exceed the recycling criteria for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles in the North American recycling system. Notably, this accolade marks the first pressure-sensitive label (PSL) material certified by APR for natural HDPE.

To attain this accreditation, UPM Raflatac submitted to APR its clear and white PP labeling solutions with various adhesive formulations for evaluation. The solutions are suitable for HDPE packaging and perform well with approved wash-off inks. Following a thorough review, APR determined that these labeling solutions cleanly released from HDPE packaging during the recycling process and do not hinder the recycling of packaging into new containers and products.

“Being the first in our industry to receive APR’s critical guidance recognition for natural HDPE energizes us. We are committed to leading the sustainability charge by advancing packaging solutions for brands,” stated Kyle Strenski, business director of HPC, food and beverage at UPM Raflatac Americas.

This achievement marks the seventh time UPM Raflatac has earned APR Critical Guidance recognition.