Recycling industry launches initiative to determine recyclability of products

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industry (ISRI) is developing a recyclability protocol and certification system for paper-based packaging products entering into the recycling stream to help solve the ongoing confusion in the marketplace over what products are or are not truly recyclable.

Once developed, the protocol will be expanded to other products made from recyclable commodities.

The protocol and certification will be phased in over the course of the next year. Working with Moore & Associates as a third-party consultant, ISRI is currently undergoing a thorough review of existing certifications and standards to aid in the integration of the protocol with any applicable programs. This will be followed by a survey of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) nationwide to gain an inventory of packaging that is recycled from the standpoint of materials and shape/size as well as regional variances in technology and capacity.

With the data, the certification protocol, including testing methodologies and procedures and the application process for obtaining certification, will be developed. The process for obtaining certification by brands will be fully documented and transparent.

As part of this comprehensive undertaking, among the many things that will be taken into consideration are industry expertise on material supply, processing, and demand challenges and needs; ISRI's Design for Recycling initiative, which encourages manufactures to factor in a product's recyclability in the design stage; and the role of the ISRI Specifications, which are used globally to buy and sell recyclable commodities. ISRI will consult with the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA), the Foodservice Packaging Institute, the Recycling Partnership, and other stakeholders during the development of the protocol and certification.