ISRI has finalized the latest update to the ISRI Specifications to include updated recycled plastics specifications. Following the final step in the ISRI specification process, the specifications mentioned below are now the current specifications. The updated plastic specifications are part of a collaborative process between the members of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and ISRI. The specifications were approved separately during October 2023 by both the ISRI Board of Directors and the APR Board of Directors. These specification updates are intended to more accurately reflect the recycled polypropylene (PP) and mixed rigid plastics currently being traded in the marketplace.
See the revised specifications for:
- Specification: PP Small Rigid Plastic
- Specification: Mixed Small Rigid Plastic
- Specification: Mixed Bulky Rigid Plastic
As a result of technological innovations – including optical sorters, robotics, and the application of artificial intelligence – the industry can now sort and process plastics for recycling more effectively than ever before. However, the continually evolving packaging and recycling streams mean that updated bale specifications and recycling-compatible package design remain critical to maintaining and improving recycled material quality.
These specifications facilitate communication between MRFs and reclaimers by describing what materials are commonly accepted. They also clearly convey the contaminants that are tolerable at low levels and those that are prohibited because they are difficult or dangerous for reclaimers to manage.
