To support and grow the use of PCR, APR understands it is essential that certification be reliable, consistent, and accessible by producers and users of recycled plastic resins.
Plastics value chain
“The intent of APR’s PCR Certification Program is to actively promote APR member companies that sell certified PCR materials,” siad Liz Bedard, director, Rigid Plastics Recycling Programs, APR.
“This program was developed in response to a growing demand from APR members and stakeholders across the plastics value chain.“
As noted by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the value of a certification is the degree of confidence and trust that is established by an impartial, competent demonstration of fulfilment of specified requirements by the third party.
APR’s PCR Certification Program includes three components: to endorse qualified third party companies to conduct certifications; Plastic reclaimers hire the APR endorsed companies to certify their PCR and APR members present their PCR certification to APR for nationwide promotion.
California Senate Bill
The California Senate Bill 270 creates standards that reusable bags distributed or sold in California must meet certain standards, including recycled content.
Any plastic reclaimer’s PCR that has been certified under the State of California’s SB 270 requirements will be considered certified PCR by APR.
The primary goals of the program include: giving reclaimers confidence that the endorsed certification companies adhere to a clear, consistent definition of PCR that aligns with the ISO 14021:2016 definition.
“Level the playing field” by endorsing multiple, credible third party PCR certifying bodies that APR members and others can voluntarily utilize and increase manufacturers’ and brand owners’ access to and confidence in a high quality PCR supply that meets their needs across diverse applications (e.g. olefins, other rigid plastics, flexible films).
“The APR PCR Certification Program promotes the link between the reclaimer making PCR and the customer wanting to use PCR. The program will enhance the brand equity of PCR in the marketplace, helping to ensure PCR receives the value it deserves,” added Greg Janson, president, QRS Recycling and co-chair APR’s PCR Certification sub-committee.