The Food and Beverage Carton Alliance (FBCA) has introduced RECY:CHECK, a new certification protocol aimed at assessing the recyclability of fibre-based composite packaging (FBCP).
This announcement coincides with the release of the 2025 edition of the Design for Recycling (DfR) Guidelines, specifically tailored for liquid packaging cartons (LPCs).
These initiatives are part of FBCA's ongoing efforts to enhance sustainable packaging practices within the global food and beverage sector.
RECY:CHECK employs a scientific approach to evaluate the recyclability of FBCP through four phases: collection, sorting, reprocessing, and application.
This certification is intended to ensure compliance with the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) while also being applicable in regions outside of Europe.
The updated DfR guidelines provide comprehensive technical recommendations for the design of LPCs, ensuring compatibility with specialised recycling facilities and PolyAl reprocessing.
Developed by the FBCA’s Centre of Expertise and its DfR Working Group, these guidelines incorporate the latest scientific findings, regulatory changes, and advancements in materials.
The guidelines are aimed at various stakeholders, including packaging designers and brand owners focused on enhancing recyclability, recyclers and reprocessors assessing material compatibility, as well as producer responsibility organisations and policymakers involved in developing infrastructure and legislation.
FBCA director general Sebastian Bartels said: “RECY:CHECK and the updated Liquid Packaging Cartons: Design for Recycling Guidelines are more than technical tools - they are strategic enablers for a circular economy.
“They help our industry speak with one voice on recyclability, align with evolving EU regulations and global aspirations, and empower every actor in the value chain, from designers and producers to recyclers and policymakers, to make informed, futureproof decisions.”
In January this year, the FBCA was launched as a global platform to advocate for beverage cartons as renewable and circular packaging solutions.
