APR’s new program supports long-term demand for PCR
The APR Recycling Demand Champions Program recognizes companies committed to long-term use of North American PCR in new products
The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has relaunched the APR Recycling Demand Champions Program, supported by The Recycling Partnership, which recognizes companies committed to the long-term use of North American post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic.
At a time when virgin plastic prices are dropping and imported plastic is on the rise, it's critical to recognize companies that are supporting the North American recycling system by creating demand. Recycling is a circular system that only works if there is a steady supply of materials being collected and processed, as well as reliable demand from companies committed to buying the recycled materials. Stable demand for North American PCR is a critical step toward scaling plastic recycling, building and maintaining a circular economy, as well as reducing plastic waste.
APR commends these companies for being leaders in the use of North American PCR and strengthening North America's circular economy:
- Amcor
- Charter Next Generation
- Kraft Heinz
- Novolex
- Triton Group
All Demand Champion companies utilize PCR, and the program recognizes consistent demand for North American PCR, which is necessary to scale recycling.
Companies are evaluated on eight criteria based on the following actions:
- Commit to PCR use - Integrate PCR into manufactured products or facility purchases, prioritizing certified North American PCR.
- Secure long-term PCR supply agreements - Establish contracts for purchasing North American PCR and products containing recycled content.
- Expand PCR adoption - Utilize PCR in non-standard formats or specify PCR in purchased goods to drive market demand.
"APR commends these companies for making the commitments required to become an APR Recycling Demand Champion and stepping up to support consistent demand for North American PCR," said Steve Alexander, APR president and CEO. "This program is designed to incentivize long-term, contracted PCR demand to match increased collection volumes and scale plastics recycling."
