Article 5: FBCA develops RECY:CHECK to assess the recyclability of beverage cartons
In light of current discussions around packaging recyclability, the Food and Beverage Carton Alliance (FBCA) developed RECY:CHECK a European, harmonised methodology for objectively assessing the recyclability of fibre-based composite packaging, including food and beverage cartons.
RECY:CHECK was developed with the support of independent industry experts, suppliers, manufacturers, external consultants, and recycling specialists.
The protocol provides a comprehensive certification methodology designed to deliver concrete evidence of recyclability, enables packaging designers to optimise their solutions and give recyclers confidence that the packaging entering their facilities has been designed with recycling in mind. The methodology describes how the recyclability of fibre-based composite packaging can be assessed in specialised recycling facilities that process beverage cartons, including the protective PolyAl fraction, the polymer and aluminium barrier layers that remain after the paper fibres have been recovered and can be further processed.
To explain the methodology in an accessible way, ACE Belgium recently published a video on LinkedIn featuring Raymond De Schrevel, Global Business Development Manager at FBCA and one of the co-developers of RECY:CHECK. In the video, he explains why the methodology was developed and how it supports both manufacturers and recyclers. According to De Schrevel, RECY:CHECK ensures that packaging is assessed in a uniform manner, while giving designers insights into possible improvements and providing recyclers with greater certainty regarding the recyclability of the packaging entering their processes.
Watch the video here: