RecyClass updates recommendations for all major plastic packaging streams

Scientific findings, stemming from more than 20 testing campaigns, have been incorporated in the latest version of RecyClass's Design for Recycling Guidelines for all the major plastic packaging streams. In parallel, Recyclability Evaluation Protocols were revised to ensure clarity and repeatability. These updates reflect the real sorting and recycling conditions and will facilitate the transition towards increasingly recyclable plastic packaging across Europe.

Given the importance of the sorting step, among the conducted testing campaigns, RecyClass evaluated the sorting behaviour of metallized decorations and the rolling behaviour of rigid packaging. In parallel, a new colour module has been added to the Sorting Evaluation Protocol for PET bottles — an important development for preserving the transparent, clear, and light blue streams within the industry. ​

Details for specific plastic recycling streams 

For flexible packaging, RecyClass has issued recommendations on electron beam treatment of PE films and confirmed the full compatibility of PVB-based inks for both PE and PP films. Additionally, the recommendations regarding printing on transparent films have been revised, following two years of testing various ink concentrations. Based on the results of this test campaign, RecyClass recommendations on the use of inks no longer focus on printing coverage, but rather on the percentage of inks used with respect to the weight of packaging — an important milestone for unlocking the full circularity potential for transparent films.

Additional findings focus on direct printing on coloured containers within the HDPE, PP, and PS recycling streams. Testing within the PET stream confirmed full compatibility of PET closures for bottles, and generated recommendations for clear, transparent PET thermoforms on sealants, including EVA which is now classified as fully compatible, and copolyesters as non-compatible.

RecyClass places a strong emphasis on the continuous generation of scientific evidence into the compatibility of different packaging features with new recycling technologies. For that reason, testing campaigns have already commenced in 2026, and more are scheduled to start throughout the year. To ensure a reliable, harmonised approach in evaluating the circularity of plastic packaging, RecyClass stresses the importance of the involvement of all value chain players in its testing campaigns and encourages more companies to join the initiative.

"These new findings reaffirm the importance of continuous, science-based testing to support a truly circular plastics economy," commented Paolo Glerean, Chairman of RecyClass. He added, "By refining our Guidelines and Protocols, we are ensuring that design decisions across the value chain align with state-of-the-art recycling conditions in Europe. This is essential to improving material sortability and quality, and boosting market confidence to support the plastic packaging industry in meeting the target of recyclability at scale, as stipulated by the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation."