RecyClass, a European cross-industry initiative, has introduced the TechAp tool to ease the management of recyclability evaluations for new plastic products.
The launch of the digital platform comes as companies ready themselves for forthcoming requirements under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
The tool is said to expedite the assessment process, with around 100 evaluations projected for 2025.
Companies begin the process by contacting the RecyClass team, after which all steps are administered through the online tool.
TechAp enables users to track the full assessment workflow remotely, from initial screening and laboratory testing through to final approval.
Its digital set-up makes the process more transparent and shortens decision-making times.
The introduction of the tool coincides with expectations that recyclability assessments will need to become more rigorous as the PPWR and its recyclability targets take effect.
RecyClass stated that the platform is designed to enable traceable, science-based decision-making and is aligned with its standardised recyclability evaluation protocols.
Since launching these protocols, RecyClass has tested more than 400 innovations, which reflects increasing interest from brands, converters and technology suppliers in more structured assessment frameworks to support packaging that can be recycled at scale.
RecyClass develops recyclability evaluation protocols and scientific testing methods for plastics, which form the basis for its design for recycling guidance, digital tools and certification schemes.
These cover plastic packaging, sorting and recycling processes, and the traceability of recycled plastics.
RecyClass chairman Paolo Glerean stated: “The European market is entering a new phase for waste management, where recyclability is no longer optional - it is mandatory. The TechAp tool will accelerate innovation in packaging design. It provides companies with a fast and trusted pathway to track the steps in obtaining approvals that demonstrate their innovative solutions are compatible with state-of-the-art recycling technologies available in Europe.”
