RecyClass plastic component guidelines for automotive and electronic sectors
The developments give manufacturers practical solutions to improve the recyclability of key plastic components
RecyClass is taking a significant step toward strengthening circularity in the Automotive and Electrical & Electronic Equipment (EEE) sectors with the publication of a new Protocol and the first sector-specific Design for Recycling Guidelines covering vehicles, fridges, and temperature exchange equipment, as well as small appliances and ICT products. These developments offer manufacturers practical, science-based direction on improving the recyclability of key plastic components to meet upcoming European legislative requirements.
The release of the Guidelines builds on major progress achieved in 2025, when RecyClass introduced the first Recyclability Evaluation Protocols for Automotive & EEE applications. These protocols generated essential insights into how plastics commonly used in these sectors behave in established recycling streams. Six test campaigns conducted that year validated protocol robustness and provided critical evidence to support future design improvements.
Creating a cohesive design protocol for plastic components
RecyClass is further expanding this work with the publication of a new multi plastic component protocol. This Protocol examines how different polymers and assembly choices influence sorting efficiency, material purity, cross-contamination risks, and final recyclate quality. By identifying whether polymers can be recovered at sufficient quality levels to be reintroduced into Automotive & EEE markets, the protocol offers manufacturers clear guidance for designing more circular products.
Together, these developments establish a strong, harmonised scientific foundation and direction for assessing the recyclability of plastic components in highly complex, multi-material sectors. They come at a pivotal moment as companies across the Automotive & EEE value chains work to comply with upcoming European legislation and increasingly integrate recycled plastics into their products.
At the same time, the progress achieved reflects the growing engagement and collaboration of industry participants. RecyClass continues to expand its community and invites new stakeholders to join in driving practical, science-based circularity solutions for plastics.
