PACKAGING DESIGNFOR RECYCLINGA GLOBALRECOMMENDATION FOR
CIRCULAR PACKAGING DESIGNPACKAGING DESIGNFOR RECYCLINGA GLOBAL RECOMMENDATION FOR'CIRCULAR PACKAGING DESIGN'ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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© GS1 Austria GmbH/ECR Austria, 2020 Brahmsplatz 3, 1040 Vienna

CONCEPTION AND TEXT
University of Applied Sciences FH Campus Wien
Section Packaging and Resource Management
Helmut-Qualtinger-Gasse 2 / Stair 2 / 5th floor, 1030 Vienna
Contact: Dr.in Silvia Apprichsilvia.apprich@fh-campuswien.ac.at
Contact: Marina Kreuzinger
marina.kreuzinger@fh-campuswien.ac.at
Circular Analytics TK GmbH
Otto-Bauer-Gasse 3 / 13, 1060 Vienna
Contact: Dr. Manfred Tacker
manfred.tacker@circularanalytics.com
Contact: Dr. Ernst Krottendorfer
ernst.krottendorfer@circularanalytics.com
Authors: Ulla Gürlich, Veronika Kladnik

CONTENT-RELATED INPUT
Participants of ECR Austria Workinggroup 'Circular Packaging Design'

GRAPHIC REALISATION
www.0916.at

COVER© ECR Austria

This global recommendation is based on the work of the ECR Austria Circular Packaging Initiative, that has been put in place by ECR Austria in collaboration with Universityof Applied Sciences FH Campus Wien.

WORKING GROUP CIRCULAR PACKAGING

3

FOREWORD

Declan Carolan

Birgit Schröder

Co-Chairs, ECR Community

ECR Community is delighted to support the publi-

ding, makes it easy to read and understand for all

cation of these global recommendations for circularsenior executives. Getting buy in from across the

packaging design for recycling. This publication aims

business and from those in your supply chain is es-

to promote knowledge development within the retailsential when making such changes.

and CPG sector as companies transition to new pa-

ECR Community is well positioned to disseminate thisckaging designs that help to minimise their environ-publication globally to its members. We are a global

mental impact, while ensuring packaging remains fit

association for all ECR National organisations in thefor purpose and continues to look good.

Retail & Consumer Product Group sector. As a not

We recognise both the challenges and opportunities

for profit, we provide a neutral platform to developthat the transition to a circular economy will

and share best practices among our network of ECR

bring and understand that circular packaging andNationals and their members. A key focus area forsupporting recycling systems are a crucial step in thisus is the circular economy, given the impact that thisprocess. The EU's 'Circular Economy Package' willtransition will have on retailers and manufacturers

significantly disrupt the packaging landscape andover the coming years.

it is critical that retailers and manufacturers remain

These global guidelines build on two years of work

ahead of the curve, especially for those operating inby ECR Austria, FH Campus Wien and its partners

multiple markets.

to publish the ECR Austria 'Packaging Design for Re-

As retailers and manufacturers start to publicly com-cycling' and 'Sustainability Assessment of Packa-

mit to significantly reducing their plastic packaging

ging'. We now call on our ECR Nationals to dissemi-

over the coming years, these recommendations

nate these Recommendations to their members.

should help to guide the conversation. The use of astraightforward traffic light system with colour co-

4

FOREWORDFOREWORD

Nerida Kelton
WPO Vice President –Sustainability & Save Food

Johannes Bergmair
WPO General Secretary

The World is facing enormous challenges. Principal

The World Packaging Organisation is a non-profit,

amongst these are climate change, environmental

non-governmental, international federation of natio-

destruction, scarce resources, globalisation, population

nal packaging institutes and associations, regional

growth as well as demographic change.

packaging federations and other interested parties

One of the commonly recognized ways for humanincluding corporations and trade associations.

societies to adapt to these challenges is moving from aFounded 1968 in Tokyo by visionary leaders from thelinear to a circular economy. Today we are consuming

global packaging community, the purpose of the or-

raw materials more than the world is able to produce.

ganisation includes:

Renewable raw materials would last for less than 6	
Encouragethedevelopmentof

packagingmonths every year if we would limit consumption totechnology, science, access and engineering;

the annual growth. In order to ensure that the world	Contribute to the development of international

remains sustainable for the future human generations

trade; andwe have no other alternative but to learn to live in

Stimulate education and training in packaging.

a circular economy. For this reason, WPO aims at
highlighting the issue of a circular economy and theSome months ago, when the WPO had the idea torole(s) of packaging within it.

develop an international Circular Packaging Design
Guideline the project seemed an impossible pipe

'Better Quality of Life, Through Better Packaging,

dream. As we proudly release the first component

For More People'of this guideline to the world, we have shown that a
dream can become a reality. This resource was simply

This is our vision at WPO World Packaging Organisa-

not possible without our wonderful collaborativetion. We know that Packaging is an indispensable tool

partners who worked alongside the WPO at every

for every society on the planet. There is no culture on

stage of the project. The WPO sees this new resource

earth that can do without packaging. But too often,

as the first step to developing a consistent global

packaging is viewed by many as a problem. Our goal

notion of Circular Design Thinking for materials andis to educate people, through our membership, ab-Packaging. The next step is to encourage all of ourout the important and valuable aspects of packaging.

53 Member countries to not only use the tool but

The world cannot do without packaging, but we mustalso work with the WPO to develop more localised

learn to make packaging even more effective; and weversions that suit their countries and regions. This ismust educate people everywhere to respect the pur-the only way to provide better quality of life, throughpose of packaging and to incorporate this tool into thebetter packaging, for more people globally.

process of building an ever more sustainable society.

FOREWORD

5

DISCLAIMER
The information in this guide is based on the Circularcollection, sorting and recycling technology, as well

Packaging Design Guideline of the FH Campus Wien

as to future material developments. The changes

and has been adapted to match. The FH Campus Wien

are coordinated and continuously developed in theguideline is available to participating stakeholders'Circular Packaging' stakeholder forum.

along the entire value chain as a technically sound
The ECR Guideline for Recyclable Packaging Design

framework for packaging development.

aims to prepare the contents of the Circular Packaging
The team behind the Department of Packaging and

Design Guideline for a broader target group in a

Resource Management at the University of Applied

practice-oriented way and focuses on the packaging

Sciences FH Campus Wien conducts research in thesystem. A clear data basis (e.g. technical specification)areas of sustainable packaging development andis a prerequisite for the specific evaluation of individual

circular design, as well as methods for assessing the

packaging solutions. An assessment can, therefore,

sustainability and safety of packaging. The guideline

only be made on a case-by-case basis.

is continuously updated and adapted to changes inInnovations and continuous updatingThis text should not be seen as an obstacle tomust, in each case, be analysed separately. Changes ininnovation (e.g. bio-based materials, new barriercollection, sorting and recycling technology, as well as

technologies or developments in sorting and recycling

all future material developments, will be followed up

technology, etc.), given that new technologies canas the FH Campus Wien Circular Packaging Design

lead to an improvement in ecological performance andGuideline continues to evolve.

Product-specific requirements
These guidelines can be applied to products fromrecyclate for the production of new packaging, there

the Food, Near-Food and Non-Food segments. The

are different requirements for the Food, Near-Foodpackaging for the different segments usually does

and Non-Food sectors that are rooted in law.

not differ from a technical perspective with regard

The Guideline is, therefore, applicable to all primary,to the recyclable packaging design. Only the requi-secondary and tertiary packaging, as well as food,rements for barrier and sealing techniques in use willnear-food and non-food packaging, provided that

vary, but these are listed in the tables and can beproduct-specific regulations of the packaging sys-

applied if necessary. It should be noted that, in re-tem are observed.

lation to the use of secondary materials and plastic

6

DISCLAIMERTABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION - SUSTAINABILITY AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
1.1 Statutory framework of the Circular Economy
1.2 Definitions of terms
		
1.2.1 Recycling rate		
1.2.2 Recyclability		
1.2.3 Sorting capability		
1.2.4 Use of recycled material

8
8
10
10
10
10
10

2. INTRODUCTION — RECYCLABLE PACKAGING DESIGN
2.1 Recycling processes at a glance		
2.1.1 Plastics recycling		
2.1.2 Paper recycling		
2.1.3 Glass recycling		
2.1.4 Metal recycling
2.2 General information and recommendations
2.3 Material-specific recommendations		
2.3.1 Plastic
		
2.3.2 Paper / cardboard / carton		
2.3.3 Glass		
2.3.4 Tinplate		
2.3.5 Aluminium
2.4 Alternative materials and material compounds		
2.4.1 Rare plastics
		
2.4.2 Compostable plastics
		
2.4.3 Special fibres with paper / cardboard / carton		
2.4.4 Composite materials with plastic content

11
11
11
13
14
15
16
16
16
16
17
17
17
19
19
19
19
19

3. DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES
3.1 Bottles
		
3.1.1 PET		
3.1.2 PE		
3.1.3 PP		
3.1.4 Glass
3.2 Trays and cups		
3.2.1 PE		
3.2.2 PP		
3.2.3 Paper/ cardboard / carton		
3.2.4 Glass		
3.2.5 Aluminium		
3.2.6 Tinplate
3.3 Flexible packaging
		
3.3.1 Aluminium		
3.3.2 PE		
3.3.3 PP		
3.3.4 Paper
3.4 Tubes
		
3.4.1 Aluminium		
3.4.2 PE		
3.4.3 PP
3.5 Cans
		
3.5.1 Aluminium		
3.5.2 Tinplate
3.6 Folding boxes
3.7 Composite beverage carton

20
21
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23
24
27
29
29
31
33
35
36
37
38
38
39
41
43
44
44
45
47
49
49
50
51
53

4. DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES (UNDER DEVELOPMENT)
4.1 Paper cans/round tins
		4.2 Buckets and tubs		
4.3 Canisters
		
4.4 Blister		
4.5 PET trays		
4.6 PET films
		
4.7 Nets		
4.8 Plastic folding boxes		
4.9 Wood packaging
		
4.10 Fibre form
		
4.11 Bag-In-Box

54
54
55
55
56
56
57
57
58
58
59
59

5. NOTES/GLOSSARY

60

TABLE OF CONTENTS

7

1. INTRODUCTION –SUSTAINABILITY AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
A holistic view of packaging is essential for sustainable product development. The holistic approach to packaging design includes:

When optimising packaging, contradictions
between individual requirements often leadto conflicting goals. The core objectives in sustainable packaging development are to deliver on a Circular Economy and the reduction
Environmental sustainability:		 in the sources of ecological impact on the environment. Contradictions in these areas arise,
Product Protection
for example, in the use of flexible packaging
Circularity
solutions, which are often complex to recycle,
Environment
or rigid packaging solutions which usually havea higher ecological impact than flexible packaOther aspects:
ging. Design for recycling is part of circular proTechnical feasibility
duct design and represents an important basis
	Processability through packaging
for holistic sustainability assessment.
equipment and processes
User-friendliness for consumers
Information to consumers

1.1

Legal framework conditions for the
Circular Economy
Packaging fulfils a variety of essential tasks.
From protection, storage and transport functions to aspects such as easier use and the provision of product information. These services
contribute significantly to sustainability, because without packaging, sensitive products can bedamaged or food losses can occur. In addition,
the production of the packaged goods in manycases has a significantly higher environmental
impact than the production of the packaging
itself. Therefore, product protection and the
avoidance of product losses due to premature
spoilage or the insufficient emptying ability ofthe packaging should be given high priority.
Even though packaging can contribute to asustainable economy, as a consumer good, itspublic reputation tends to be negative. In addition, problems such as littering, the generationof emissions and the consumption of resources
are in the spotlight. In recent years, a growing
demand for greater sustainability in packaging
design has definitely been apparent.
Sustainable packaging offers maximum functionality with the best possible product protection, it causes minimal ecological damage
and is as circular as possible. The circularity of
packaging, in particular, is becoming ever more

8

urgent, as the European Union is demanding a
reduction in the use of resources, the reusingof products and packaging and significantly
higher Material recycling quotas as part of the
EU Circular Economy Package, and is pushing
the use of recycled material as a secondary raw
material.
The Circular Economy Package in the EU thatentered into force in July 2018 includes provisions for enhancing circular approaches to raw
materials at the European level. In 2018, the package of measures led to amendments to the
EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directives(94/62/EC) in combination with the Landfill Directive (1999/31/EC) and the overarching Waste Framework Directive(2008/98/EC). The Package also includes a specific paper on plastics
A European Strategy for Plastics in a Circular
Economy, in short EU Plastics Strategy). The
focus is on increasing the recycling rates of all
packaging materials and expanding the extended producer responsibility, as well as restricting the marketing of individual plastic articles.
Producers of plastic packaging, in particular, arefacing important challenges, given that mandatory recycling rates will be raised from the current level of 26% to 55% by 2030 (2018/852/
EC amending Directive 94/62/EC). The new

INTRODUCTION

Single-Use Plastics Directive (2019/904/EC)
also contains regulations on single-use products
made entirely (or partly) of plastic. The directive
prohibits, for example, the use of drinking
straws, cotton buds, oxo-degradable plastic anddisposable cutlery and promotes the reductionof beverage cups. In addition, Article 9 of thedirective prescribes the separate collection ofbeverage bottles up to three litres (including
their closures) with a quota of 77 % (by 2025)
and 90 % (by 2029). Similarly, from 3 July2024 (in accordance with Article 6), beveragecontainers of up to three litres made wholly(or partly) of plastic may only be placed on themarket if the closures or lids on the packaging
remain attached to the container for the durationof the intended use. Takeaway packaging madeof EPS is completely banned. The basis forthese measures is the waste hierarchy, which is
described in the following text.

Circularity
Design for recycling is part of circular productdesign and represents an important basis forholistic sustainability assessment. Accordingly,
circularity means that the packaging is designed in such a way that the highest possible recycling of the materials in use can be achieved.
The goals here are resource conservation, thelongest possible service life, material-identical
recycling (closed-loop recycling) or the use ofrenewable materials. Circular packaging should
therefore be designed and manufactured insuch a way that it can be reused (reusable solution) and/or that the raw materials used canbe reused to a large extent as secondary raw
materials after the use phase (recycling) and/or
consist of renewable raw materials.
However, according to the waste hierarchy,
which pursues the goal of resource conservation, the avoidance of packaging waste should
be given top priority. This is followed by measures for reuse and a recyclable packaging design.
The following illustration shows the measuresthat should be applied, above all, to the designof circulatory packaging systems.

1. Reduce
Reducing the use of materials to avoid the generationof packaging waste.

2. Reuse
Enabling the reuse of the packaging material used, for example,
after cleaning.

3. Recycle
Design of packaging to enable high quality recycling.

Nevertheless, the option that offers the best
environmental performance over the entire
life cycle of the packaging should always bechosen. In this assessment, many factors – aswell as regionally specific recycling structures –must be taken into account.

INTRODUCTION

9

1.2

Definitions of terms
The following chapter defines basic terms that are used in the context of circular product design.

1.2.1

Recycling rate
According to Directive 2018/852/EC amending
Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging
waste (Article 1) of the European Commission,
the weight of packaging waste generated andrecycled in a given calendar year in relation
to the quantity introduced to the market isused to calculate the recycling rate. The actual
determination of the weight of packaging waste
counted as recycled should, in principle, be

1.2.2

Recyclability
Products must meet the following criteria tobe recyclable: The material used is collected bycountry-specific and region-specific collection
systems and can be sorted using the latest technological standards. Furthermore, it is recycled
in a recycling process that uses state-of-the-art

1.2.3(e.g. material recognition by a specific nearinfrared spectrum) and, on the other hand, on thesortability of the packaging itself (e.g. ejection bymeans of compressed air).

Use of recycled material
DIN EN ISO 14021 defines recycled material
before and after use as follows: Pre-consumer
material is material that is separated from thewaste stream during the manufacturing process. It does not include the reuse of materials
from post-processing, regrinding or scrap thatis generated in the course of a technical process
and can be reused in the same process (alsoknown as PIR, post-industrial recycled content).
Postconsumer material is material from house-

10

technology. The resulting secondary raw materials harbour significant market potential, which
can be used as substitutes for material-identicalnew materials. Recyclability is, therefore, to be
distinguished from the actual recycling rate.

Sorting capability
Sortability is a basic requirement for recyclability.
It must be ensured that material-specific, stateof-the-art sorting techniques can be used. The
sorting capability depends, on the one hand,on the detectability and correct identification

1.2.4

made at the point where the packaging waste
enters the recycling process. This means that itis the quantity that has already passed throughthe material-specific sorting process. Losses
from pre-treatment steps were taken into
account. In the case of plastics, for example, thisincludes the material that is fed directly into the
extruder for remelting.

holds, commercial and industrial establishments
or institutes (which are the final consumers of
the product) that can no longer be used for theintended purpose. It includes material recycledfrom the supply chain (also known as PCR, postconsumer recycled or PCW, post-consumer
waste). When discussing packaging with recycled material content, the use of post-consumer
material applies.

INTRODUCTION

2. INTRODUCTION –RECYCLABLE PACKAGING DESIGNIn order to be able to apply recyclable packaging design, a certain fundamental knowledge of sorting
and recycling processes is necessary. Packaging must, therefore, be suitable for state-of-the-art sorting
and recycling processes in addition to its basic functions (e.g. storage, transport, product protection,
product presentation and convenience).

2.1

Recycling processes at a glance
The following is an overview of the current recycling processes for packaging materials.

2.1.1

Plastics recycling
The term 'material-' or 'mechanical' recycling refers to a mechanical treatment process in which
the basic chemical structure of the polymer ispreserved. The plastic waste is sorted, subjected
to intensive physical cleaning to remove potential impurities, shredded and then remelted orcompounded into new material. By contrast,with chemical recycling (also called tertiary or

raw material recycling), the polymer is chemically degraded into low molecular weight compounds, purified and then polymerised again.
The umbrella term 'material recycling' combines
both mechanical and raw material recycling. The
mechanical recycling process for plastic packaging can include the following steps for rigid packaging systems:

1
In the first step, plastic packaging
is collected separately via theyellow bin or the yellow bag. Thenthe waste is further separated byshape, density, size, colour andchemical compositionand subsequently sorted.

6
The resulting granulate can now be used
as a raw material forrenewed the production of plastic articles,
either completely oras an addition to theprimary fraction.

2
Afterwards, the sorted
waste, which is now
available in separate
fractions, is pressed
into bales to facilitate
further transport fromthe sorting plant to therecycling plant.

3
5
To convert the flakes into processable plastic granulate (recyclate),
they are compounded, i.e. remelted
in extruders. Additives can be mixed
in here, while unwanted components
can also be removed.

The next step is a washing process
to remove organic residues from thefood packaging. These can interferewith the remaining process.

4 The material is ground for further processing and to a
uniform size – so-called 'flakes'. Subsequently, further
fine sorting can be carried out using the sink-float tankprocess for the separation of PET materials
with a density below 1 g/cm3).

RECYCLING PROCESSES

11

The most important process for the subsequent
recycling process is the sorting technology, which
is why recyclable design primarily aims to enablea clear material classification. The following technologies are used as standard for sorting plastic
types:
Magnetic sorting(for the separation of magnetic components, e.g. ferrous metal)

Eddy current separator (for separating non-conductive metals, aluminium)
Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR)(material determination by means ofreflection beam)
After washing and shredding: Flotation(density-based separation of different
types of plastics)
Further processes, if necessary
In plastics recycling, sorting by means of nearinfrared is crucial for the correct allocation of thematerial fraction of the basic packaging. If thisrecognition is not possible, the packaging cannot
be assigned to the correct material stream andis either incorrectly assigned or rejected. This
problem occurs, for example, with full-surface
sleeves on bottles, if the sleeve material is not
identical to the bottle material and/or the sleeve

12

is printed over the entire surface and, therefore,
the colour of the bottle (e.g. transparent) cannot
be assigned. Similar problems arise from the useof the dye Carbon black (black), which absorbs
the infrared beam and thus prevents an evaluation.
A second important distinguishing feature is thematerial-specific density. The different types ofplastic have an individual material density, which isalso used for differentiation in sorting technology.
If this specific density of a plastic type is artificiallychanged (e.g. by adding density-changing
additives that increase the density of PP to over
1 g/cm3), the sorting process can no longer beused in the usual form because the distinguishingfeature has been changed. A decisive limit is thedensity above or below 1 g/cm3. PET bottles,
therefore, usually have a density of over 1 g/3cm3,and the closure made of HDPE and the label
made of PP have a density of under 1 g/cm3. Dueto this difference, sorting can be carried out very
efficiently and easily using the so-called sink-floattank method.
Flotation (sink-float sorting) is a density-based
separation process in which crushed plastic flakes
are separated, usually with water as the flotation
agent. In this way, polymers with a density ofless than 1 g/cm3 (e.g. PP, PE) can be separated
relatively easily from plastics with a higher density(e.g. PET, PS, PVC, etc.).
The following table shows the specific densities ofthe most common basic packaging plastics:

PLASTICSWITH A DENSITY < 1g/cm3

PLASTICSWITH A DENSITY > 1 g/cm3

PP

PS

LLDPE

PET

LDPE

PVC (flexible film)

HDPE

PLA

Numerous research projects on chemical recycling are currently under development. It is to be
expected that, in the next few years, chemical
recycling processes will also be used on a large

scale. This is not yet the case, which is why chemical recycling processes are not discussed inthis guide.

RECYCLING PROCESSES

2.1.2Paper recycling
Paper, carton and cardboard are materials thatconsist primarily of layers of plant fibres and arefurther processed and refined in various steps(coating, impregnating, laminating, etc.). Depending on the thickness of the fibre layers, the nature of the fibres (bleached or unbleached),

added fillers, structure and construction (corrugated board, composite board, etc.), a wide variety of carton, cardboard and paper grades canbe distinguished. In order to be able to reuse thefibres as raw material, a multi-stage preparation
process is necessary:

1
The first step is the collection of waste
paper, which is already subdivided
according to source (paper processing,commercial sector and household sector)
for initial sorting.

5
The secondary fibres
obtained can be reused for
paper production. However, there are technical limitations
as the fibre quality (fibre length)
decreases with each
recycling cycle.

2
Afterwards, a gradualdry sorting process
takes place using
automatic sorting
technology (e.g. NIR
sensors, screens,blow-out units, etc.)
and manual sorting.
Impurities such aswood, textiles andcoated paper are
separated out.

4
In wet processing thepaper fibres are treated bymeans of mechanical stressin an aqueous solution.
in so-called pulpers. In addition,
unwanted foreign substancessuch as adhesive particles, metal
clips and foils are
removed in this step. Depending on theintended use, printing inks are also separated by means of a de-inking process (with theaddition of air and chemicals). For the recycling of
packaging papers, no de-inking process is usuallyused.

the waste paper is separated according
3 Afterwards,
to the defined types of waste paper (lower grades,
high-strength grades, special grades, etc.) andpressed into bales. Alternatively, mixed recycling of
the collected waste paper may take place (without
prior sorting).

A fundamental prerequisite for ensuring the recyclabilityof paper packaging is that it is collected in the correct
waste fraction (paper fraction) and is recyclable in therecycling process (restrictions e.g. due to heavy organic
contamination). To this end, certain framework conditions must be met: According to European regulations, paper packaging must consist of at least 95% fibre content
in order to be considered as such. It must be taken into
account that there are currently country-specific differences. Paper coated on both sides and paper coated or
impregnated with paraffin or wax on one or both sides
are, in any case, considered a composite material and13thus not paper packaging: Due to technical restrictions,
coating should only be carried out on one side, as the disintegration of the fibres is impeded with coating on bothsides. For special fractions such as composite beverage
cartons (see chapter 3.7), which usually consists of thelayers PE-paper-PE or PE-paper-PE-aluminium-PE, there
are separate recycling structures. In order to be eligible
for these fractions, the material-specific structure must
not deviate (e.g. through additional lamination with other plastics) and the packaging must by definition be forliquid or paste-like foodstuffs.

RECYCLINGPROZESSE

2.1.3

Glass recycling
an unlimited number of times and is thus ideallysuited for material recycling.

Glass is a mixture of raw materials consisting
primarily of quartz sand, soda and limestone.
Depending on the intended use and colouring,other additives (e.g. chrome and iron oxide forgreen colouring) can be added. Due to its highstability, glass can theoretically be melted down

Roughly speaking, the following steps can be
distinguished in glass recycling:

4

1

The waste glass cullet is then added as a secondary
raw material and melted in the glass melting plant
together with primary raw materials.
The use of cullet is advantageous, on the one
hand, due to the saving of primary raw
materials and, on the other hand,due to the energy savings

The first step is the collection of waste
glass sorted by colour into white andcoloured glass. The separation is
an important basis for achieving therequired colour purities (white, brown,
green). to be obtained, which is done
by further optical sorting.

2
This is followed by a size
reduction to the required grain sizes (approx.
20mm), which are necessary for the following
sorting and feeding of themelting furnace..

3
Subsequently, foreign matter and impurities from use are separated in various
sorting processes and further fine sorting is carried out according to colour.

The main interfering substances in waste glass cullet include:
Different coloured glass and added
metal oxides, which lead to unwanted discolouration. Therefore, the standard colours brown,
white and green are to be preferred (weakened shades such as lightgreen can also be recycled without
any problems).

Ceramic material (ceramics, stones,
porcelain) and metallic materials
can lead to increased corrosion of
the glass tank or unwanted
inclusions in the recycled glass.

RECYCLING PROCESSES

Organic substances such as foodresidues have an effect on colouring
and fining.

142.1.4 Metal recycling
Ferrous metal

Aluminium

Tinplate, a ferrous metal coated with a protective
layer of tin, is mainly used for packaging.
Particularly in the case of food contact, the tinned
area is additionally coated with a lacquer or plastic
layer to prevent tin ions from escaping. Due to theirmagnetic properties, ferrous metal packaging canbe relatively easily detected in the sorting processusing magnetic separators. The iron can then bepressed and remelted as often as desired. The
molten metal can then be rolled into sheets andprocessed again into trays, cans and closures.

Aluminium is used for the production of packaging
such as cans and trays, but also as a foil material forcomposites. Aluminium packaging is collected in
the sorting process with the help of eddy current
separators. The material is then pressed and canbe remelted and further processed in aluminium
smelters. Like ferrous metals, aluminium can berecycled very often and in a material-identicalmanner. This saves a large amount of energy andraw materials compared to primary aluminium
production.

The basic steps in metal recycling are shown below using the diagram:

4

1
The collection of scrap metal
is usually done jointly forferrous metal and aluminium.

In further processing, the cast ingots arethen turned into sheets or foils using
a multi-stage rolling process. This
enables the reuse of the raw materials
extracted.

2

3
In reprocessing, the ferrous
metal or aluminium is melted
down with any admixtures tomaintain the product quality
and cast into ingots.

15

RECYCLING PROCESSES

This is followed by separation into ferrous
metals and non-ferrous metals (aluminium)
using magnetic separators or eddy current
separators, as well as the further finesorting of non-ferrous metals and somemanual re-sorting. Alternatively, separation can also take place after the previous
shredding process (shredding of thecollected packages). The various
metals are then also sorted out.

2.2 General information and recommendations
The ready-for-sale packaging should be designed with sustainability criteria in mind, so thatcollection and sorting – as well as recycling – aremade possible to a high degree.
In order to ensure the recyclability of packaging,
various recommendations apply, which differ
depending on the type of packaging and material. In addition, it is crucial which part potential
consumers play in this context. In principle, the'correct' separation of components should not
be made dependent on end users (consumers),
as their behaviour cannot be directly influenced.
If this is not possible, measures should be taken
to make it as easy as possible for the end consumer to separate the products correctly, suchas clearly legible information on the packaging
and clear labelling of the material type, as well
as visible and easy-to-use perforations for remo-

ving the decoration. If the active participation of
the final consumer is foreseen or assumed (e.g.
when separating a cardboard wrap from a plasticcup), the correct separation and disposal of thecomponents must be proven and documented
by way of empirical surveys (e.g. case study).
The following general information and recommendations for a recyclable design refer to essential design criteria depending on the material used, its additives, the decorative elements,
other components and closure systems, as wellas their suitability for state-of-the-art sorting
processes and mechanical recycling processes.
Based on these recommendations, decisions fora recyclable product design can also be madeindependently of specific packaging types. The
recommendations serve as an overarching guidefor the reader.

Preferred finishes:
Optimally reusable packaging (returnable) with recyclable design.
	Greatest possible reduction in the use of packaging materials (without negatively
affecting product protection).
Use of recycled materials/recyclates where possible.
	Push mono-materials, use material combinations that are recyclable. Economicalcolouring.
EuPIA-compliant printing inks and coatings.
Use adhesives that do not have a negative impact on sorting and recycling processes.
	Winding aids/closures should be firmly attached to the packaging to avoid thecreation of small parts.
If possible, laser engraving for best-before date and batch numbers.
	The packaging should be designed in such a way that residual emptying is aseffective as possible.
	In the sense of 'design for recycling', packaging should be designed in such a way
that, in the event of a necessary separation of individual packaging components theparticipation of the final consumer is not necessary for the disposal.1

The following should be avoided:	Rare materials that are not recyclable and / only exist in small quantities on
the market.
Additives that lead to quality problems in the recyclate during recycling processes(e.g. due to potentially contaminating degradation products).
	In addition, dyes based on Carbon black can lead to misclassification of the material
or rejection during NIR detection in the plastic sorting process(however, NIR-detectable black and dark dyes are already on the market).

RECYCLING PROCESSES

16

2.3 Material-specific recommendations
The variety of packaging materials available on
the market today makes it possible to optimally match the material to the product and thus
guarantee the best possible product protection.
Within these material categories, there is a multitude of different designs and packaging types,

2.3.1

which are described in detail in the following
sections. The recommendations listed here are
to be seen as generally valid material-specificrecommendations that also provide guidancefor packaging types that are not explicitly described in this document

Plastics
	Use materials that are as widely available as possible (PP, PE, PET).
	Recyclable material combinations (ideally mono-materials).
	The surface area of the base material should, at best, be covered to amax. 50 %2 with the sleeve/label/banderole.
	Easy mechanical separability of the individual components in thesorting process.
	If possible, use transparent materials.
	As few additives as possible.
	Adhesives recyclable or washable under certain conditions.
	No barrier layers, but if necessary: carbon plasma coating3,
SiOx- or Al2O3 barrier.
	Avoid small parts that can be separated by the last consumer (Littering).
	Non-recyclable material composites (see specific design recommendations).
	Density-changing additives (for example, density-increasing additives in PE
and PP packaging lead to problems in sorting).
	Use of Carbon black -based inks

2.3.2 Paper/ Carton
 he fibres for the production come from coniferous and deciduous treesTin the best case.
	If possible without coating, if necessary -> single-sided plastic coatingsor plastic laminate (fibre content in the best case > 95 %).4
	Adhesive applications that do not lead to the formation of problematic
stickies. Inks that can be removed in the de-inking process.
	As little colouring as possible and minimal printing with
EuPIA-compliant colours	Plastic coatings on both sides.
	Wax coatings.
	Silicone paper (exception: feed to special recycling plants).
	Wet-strengthened fibre components.6
	Integrated windows and other plastic components which cannot
be easily separated from paper

17

MATERIAL-SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS2.3.3Glass tandard colouring in green, brown, white (transparent)
Sor related shades.
Regular three-component packing glass(quartz sand, soda, limestone).
Engravings and paper labels (wet-strength).
	No packaging glass, such as heat-resistant glass(e.g.: boro-silicate glass).
	Lead crystal, cryolite glass.
	Ceramic parts.
	Full-surface, colour-coated bottles.
	Full-surface sleeves.
	Permanently adhesive and large-area plastic labels.

2.3.4

Tinplate erromagnetic metals.
F
Paint coating.
Closure also made of ferromagnetic metal.
Decoration by means of embossingor paper banderole.

	
Aerosol cans with hydrocarbon-based
propellants and/or residual contents.
	
Non-compliant colours.

2.3.5

Aluminium on-ferrous metal partsN
Direct printing process.
Embossing or direct printing.
Paint coating.
Closures made of aluminium	Aluminium in material composite.6
	Non-compliant colours.
	Aerosol cans with hydrocarbon
substance-based propellants
and/or residual content.

MATERIAL-SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS

18

2.4 Alternative materials
and material connections
2.4.1

Rare plastics
As a rule, recycling can only take place in an economically viable manner if the input material isavailable in large and as homogeneous quantities
as possible. For materials that are rarely foundon the market, there are, therefore, often no suitable recycling streams, despite their possibly

2.4.2

Compostable plastics
The goal of compostability runs counter to the recycling process, as material that can be composted well has often already lost its quality by thetime it arrives in the recycling stream.
However, for products for which material recycling is ruled out due to assumed heavy pollution
or for other reasons, the use of biodegradable materials could be recommended in the future (e.g.
coffee capsules, packaging for fresh meat, etc.).
However, proof of industrial composting must be
available and this must also be communicated tothe end consumer.

2.4.3

A low input of these materials into the recovered
paper stream is considered uncritical for the recycling process.

Composite materials with plastic content
Composite materials or multi-layer materials:'multilayer'), materials made of two or moredifferent materials can combine the best properties of the respective materials. A common
application of composite materials is films,
which fulfil a high barrier function and, therefore, extend the shelf life of food products.

19

Within the framework of a life cycle assessment,
the potential advantages of using compostable
plastics can be evaluated. Oxo-degradable plastics (plastics that can decompose in the environment due to their additives) are not recommended at all. Apart from the damage to thequality of the recyclate, microplastics are produced through incomplete decomposition. In addition, the placing on the market of oxo-degradable
plastics without this is prohibited from 03 July
2021 within the framework of the EU Single-Use
Plastics Directive (2019/904, Article 5).

Special fibres for paper/ cardboard / carton
Here, the effects of non-wood-based fibres (e.g.:grass, hemp, cotton, etc.) on the recycling process have not yet been completely clarified.

2.4.4

good recyclability. A recycling-friendly design of
packaging should, therefore, focus on the use ofa few common materials. The rare materials thatshould not be used include polycarbonate (PC)and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Composite materials can provide a high level ofproduct protection with a reduced packaging
weight, but can make recycling more difficultand even prevent it. Recyclable plastic composites are listed on a material-specific basis in
the chapter 'Design recommendations for packaging types'.

MATERIAL-SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS

3. DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONSFOR PACKAGING TYPES
Recommendations for a recyclable packaging
design are suggested below. Detailed design
recommendations can already be given formany common types of packaging. For someother types, these are currently still under development, which is why general recommendations are available here. For a fully recyclable
design, the criteria from the 'best case' category must be selected. 'if necessary' criteria also
allow for recycling, but there are no individual

restrictions (such as the reduction of recyclate
quality). The criteria 'to be avoided' should generally be excluded, as they either prevent clear
sorting or lead to unwanted contamination in
the recycling process. These are generally valid
recommendations that can be applied on thebasis of the current data. Further details will beworked out in cooperation with the FH Campus
Wien.

The colour coding system
The following recommendations for the design ofrecyclable packaging have been classified according to packaging type and packaging material inorder to ensure the most practical applicability of
the recommendation. The different types of packaging are defined as follows

BOTTLESTRAYS AND CUPSFLEXIBLE PACKAGING

TUBES

CANS

FOLDING BOXESDESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES(UNDER DEVELOPMENT)COMPOSITE BEVERAGE
CARTONThe main criteria
The design recommendations are given for each of three main criteria, which, in turn, summarise themost important design features:- Material and additives- Barriers- Colour

CLOSURESYSTEM

DECORATIONAND OTHER COMPONENTS

MATERIAL- Labels, banderoles and sleeves- Coding by the bottler- Printing inks
- Designs- Label adhesive- Closures- Seals, sealing foils- Opening aids

The traffic light system
Packaging types for which detailed recommendations already exist are divided into three
categories (green, yellow, red). Design recommendations for packaging types – for which afurther level of detail is currently being worked
on – are divided into the categories green andred. In some cases, further comments are madeon individual design criteria, which can be foundin Chapter 5 / Glossary.

best caseif necessary
to be avoided

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

20

3.1 BOTTLES

CLOSURE

3.1.1 PET
MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
Transparent mono-PET is best suited for high-quality and material-identical recycling.
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx), an aluminium oxide (Al2O3) barrier ora carbon plasma coating (only for coloured bottles) can be used, as these do notsignificantly affect the quality of the recyclate.
Pale, light, dark or opaque material can be collected or recycled, but of lower quality
than transparent material.
Additives such as UV stabilisers, optical brighteners and oxygen absorbers should only
be added if necessary.
In principle, the use of barriers should be avoided. However, PA barriers (mass fraction<5 wt %), a multilayermaterial with PGA, PTN alloys and TPE or PO-based barriers canbe used under certain circumstances.
It is important to avoid the use of materials with a density <1 g/cm3 and density-changing
additives in the polymer, as PET sorting is based on density separation.
Barriers made of EVOH and PA (mass fraction > 5 wt. %) as well as other inserted barriers
can sometimes strongly impair the recyclate quality.
Other types of PET (e.g. PET-G) as well as a composite with other plastics such as PLA, PVC
and PS are not compatible with the PET fraction and are considered interfering materials.
Special additives such as oxygen/bio/Oxo-degradable additives, nanoparticles and a PA
additive damage the recyclate. Furthermore, the addition of oxo-degradable additives will
be banned throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting. Metallic and fluorescent colours must be
avoided due to the contamination of the recyclate.

21

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Direct printing on the packaging should be avoided if possible. If this is necessary, theprinting inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant and non-bleeding to avoid potential
contamination.
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should ideally be carriedout in the form of an embossing or laser marking.
If labels and sleeves are used, they should cover a maximum of 50% of the packaging8
and be made of a material with a density < 1g/cm3 (e.g. PP, PE) so that they can beseparated in the sorting process.

Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels because no fibres
come out of them in the washing process that can contaminate the recyclate.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be carriedout by means of minimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided
that food-grade inks are used.

Extensive direct printing on the packaging is disadvantageous, as released printing inks
can impair the clarity of the recyclate or contaminate the recycling stream via released
printing inks in the wash water (potential formation of NIAS).
Large-scale decorations covering more than 50% of the packaging surface8 can impair
the sorting of the packaging.
Labels and sleeves made of a material with a density > 1 g/cm³ (e.g. PVC, OPS, PLA), PET
as well as non-wet-strength paper labels can contaminate the PET fraction.
Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of> 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting into the metal fraction.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures are best made of PP, HDPE or other materials with a density < 1 g/cm3, as they
can be separated from PET in the recycling process.
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Closure systems without liners are preferred. If necessary, EVA or TPE liners should
be used.
From 2024 onwards, the adhesion of the closure (according to Article 6, 2019/904/EC)
must be guaranteed for the time of intended use for beverage containers up to 3 litres.

If a sealing and other components made of silicone are necessary, they should have adensity < 1 g/cm3 to enable separation in the sorting process.

Components made of metal, aluminium-containing materials (with a layer thickness > 5 µm), duroplast, PS, POM and PVC are considered interfering materials, as they interfere with the sorting
and reprocessing of the material and can damage extruders and equipment, among other things.
This also applies to non-removable sealing films or silicones, glass and metal springs ofpump systems or materials with a density > 1 g/cm³.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

22

3.1.2 PE

CLOSURE

MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
In the best case, PE bottles are as unpigmented as possible (transparent) or white andconsist of PE mono-material without a barrier.
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx), an aluminium oxide (Al2O3) barrier or acarbon plasma coating (for coloured bottles only) can be used, as these do notsignificantly affect the quality of the recyclate.
A multi-layer composite can be used if necessary, if it is made up of different PE types(e.g. LDPE,HDPE).
Multilayer composites with small amounts of PP are recyclable.
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 1 g/cm3 and thus thedensity grading is not impaired.
If necessary, an EVOH barrier layer can be used, provided that applicable limit values arecomplied with.10
A material compound with PS, PVC, PLA, PET and PET-G should be avoided, as thiscontaminates the PE fraction.
The use of density-altering additives (e.g. talc, CaCO3) as well as foaming agents forchemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to ≥ 1 g/cm³, can cause problems
in sorting, as the material-specific classification is no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC, PA, PE-X and EVOH10 (if applicable limits are
exceeded) represent interfering substances in the recycling of the material, as they
contaminate the recyclate.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned
throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting.

23

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant andnon-bleeding to prevent potential contamination.
Minimal printing with light or glazing colours is advantageous.
If labels and sleeves are used, they should be made of the same base material as the bottle body (e.g. HDPE, LDPE, MDPE, LLDPE).
If the decoration is made of a material other than PE, a maximum of 50% of the packaging
surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the base material.8
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should ideally be carried out
in the form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do notrelease fibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels and sleeves made of PP, OPP and PET can be used if necessary, provided that amaximum of 50% of the packaging surface is covered.8
In addition, all labels made of a material other than PE or PP should be water washable toensure separation from the PE fraction and no adhesive residue should remain.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be carriedout by means of minimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided
that food-grade inks are used.
Labels made of other materials that are not water-washable can negatively affect thesorting or recyclate quality of the PE fraction.
PVC sleeves and labels should generally be avoided, even if they are water-washable.
Large-area decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) and full-surface sleeves madeof a material other than PE can impair the sorting of the packaging).8
Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of > 5 µm) canlead to unwanted sorting into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures are ideally made of the same base material as the bottle (e.g. HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE,
MDPE). Ideally, the cap and the bottle are also the same colour.
Closure systems without liners are preferable. If necessary, EVA or TPE liners should be used.
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
From 2024 onwards, the adhesion of the closure (according to Article 6, 2019/904/EC) mustbe guaranteed for the time of intended use for beverage containers up to 3 litres.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PE fraction insmall quantities9.
PP closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities.9
Closures made of other materials such as PET, PET-G, PS and PLA should be avoided, as
these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS, PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Pump systems made of other materials (especially with glass & metal springs)
also represent interfering materials.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5 µm) can impair the sorting.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

24

3.1.3 PP

CLOSURE

MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
In the best case, PP bottles are as unpigmented as possible (transparent) or white and consist of PP mono-material without barrier.
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx), an aluminium oxide (Al2O3) barrier
or a carbon plasma coating (for coloured bottles only) can be used, as these do notsignificantly affect the quality of the recyclate.
A multi-layer composite material can be used if necessary, if this is made up of different
PP types (e.g. OPP, BOPP).
Multilayer composites with small amounts of PE are recyclable.9
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 1 g/cm3 and thus thedensity grading is not impaired.
If necessary, an EVOH barrier layer can be used, provided that applicable limit values arecomplied with. 10
A material compound with PS, PVC, PLA, PET and PET-G should be avoided, as thiscontaminates the PP fraction.
The use of density-altering additives (e.g. talc, CaCO3) as well as foaming agents forchemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to ≥ 1 g/cm³, can cause problems
in sorting, as the material-specific classification is no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC, PA and EVOH (if applicable limits are
exceeded) represent interfering substances in the recycling of the material, as
they contaminate the recyclate.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned
throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting.

25

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant
and non-bleeding in order to prevent potential contamination.
Minimal printing with light or glazing colours is advantageous.
If labels and sleeves are used, they should be made of the same base material(PP) as the bottle.
If the decoration is made of a material other than PP, a maximum of 50% of the
packaging surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the basematerial.8
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should ideally be carried out
in the form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do notrelease fibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels and sleeves made of PE and PET can be used if necessary, provided that a maximum of 50% of the packaging surface is covered 8.
In addition, all labels made of a material other than PP or PE should be water-washable
to ensure separation from the PP fraction and no adhesive residue should remain.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be carried out by means of minimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet),provided that food-grade inks are used.
Labels made of other materials that are not water-washable can negatively affect thesorting or recyclate quality of the PP fraction.
PVC sleeves and labels should generally be avoided, even if they are water-washable.
Large-area decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) and full-surface sleeves
made of a material other than PP can impair the sorting of the packaging) 8.
Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of> 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures should ideally be made of the same basic material (PP) as the bottle. Ideally, thecap and the bottle are also the same colour.
Closure systems without liners are preferable. If necessary, EVA or TPE liners should be
used.
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PP fraction in small quantities 9.
From 2024 onwards, the adhesion of the closure (according to Article 6, 2019/904/EC)
must be guaranteed for the time of intended use for beverage containers up to 3 litres.
PE closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities 9.
Closures made of other materials such as PET, PET-G, PS and PLA should be avoided,
as these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS, PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Pump systems made of other materials (especially with glass & metal springs) also
represent interfering materials.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5 µm) can impair the sorting.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

26

3.1.4 GLASSCLOSURES

MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
Regular three-component packaging glass (silica sand, soda, limestone) in standard colouring transparent/white, green or brown (or related quartz) can be recycled effectively.
The heavy metal concentration in the material must comply with Commission Decision
2001/171/EC, in order to prevent contamination.
The use of alternative, opaque or metallic shades makes it more difficult to match therequired standard shades in recycled glass again.
Black or dark-blue coloured glass should, therefore, be avoided.
Non-packaging glass such as heat-resistant glass (e.g. Boro silicate glass), lead crystal,cryolite glass and enamel components are major impurities that affect the recyclate qualityof packaging glass.

27

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Decoration on glass packaging should preferably be done by engraving.
Wet-strength paper labels and direct printing with EuPIA-compliant coatings and inks canalso be used without any problems.
If the glass container is fully colour-coated, this can lead to problems with the detection
and sorting of the material.
Plastic labels should only be used when necessary.
Permanently-adhering and large-area sleeves and plastic labels can, under certain
circumstances, interfere with the sorting and impact processing of the glass.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures made of ferromagnetic (alloy) metals can be easily separated during magnetic
sorting.
Closures made of plastic and aluminium can also be separated and thus do not interferewith the glass melt.
Closures made of ceramic and swing stoppers with ceramic or porcelain components
respectively can lead to unwanted inclusions in the recycled glass and should be avoided.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

28

3.2 TRAYS AND CUPS
3.2.1 PE
CLOSURE
MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
In the best case, PE trays and cups are as unpigmented as possible (transparent) or whiteand consist of PE mono-material without a barrier.
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx), an aluminium oxide (Al2O3) barrier or acarbon plasma coating (for coloured cups only) can be used, as these do not significantly
affect the quality of the recyclate.

A multi-layer composite material can be used if necessary, if this is made up of different
PE types (e.g. LDPE, HDPE). Multilayer composite materials with small amounts of PP are
also recyclable9.
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 1 g/cm3 and thus thedensity grading is not impaired.
If necessary, an EVOH barrier layer can be used, provided that applicable limit values arecomplied with10.
The metallisation (aluminium vapour deposition) of the base material can cause problems
in sorting under certain circumstances11. In addition, this can lead to a deterioration of therecyclate quality (grey colouration).
A material compound with PS, PVC, PLA, PET and PET-G should be avoided, as thiscontaminates the PE fraction.
The use of density-altering additives (e.g. talc, CaCO3) as well as foaming agents for chemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to ≥ 1 g/cm³, can cause problems insorting, as the material-specific classification is no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC, PA, PE-X and EVOH (if applicable limits are
exceeded) represent interfering substances in the recycling of the material, as they contaminate the recyclate.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned throughout
the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting

29

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant andnon-bleeding in order to prevent potential contamination.
Minimal printing with light or glazing colours is advantageous.
If labels and sleeves are used, they should be made of the same base material as the packaging (e.g. HDPE, LDPE, MDPE, LLDPE).
In-mould labels made of PE can also be used. However, a high degree of printing canhave a negative effect here, as the label is recycled together with the base material.
If the decoration is made of a material other than PE, a maximum of 50% of the packaging
surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the base material8.
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should best be carried out inthe form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do notrelease fibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels and sleeves made of PP, OPP and PET can be used if necessary, provided that amaximum of 50% of the packaging surface is covered8.
In addition, all labels made of a material other than PE or PP should be water-washable,
in order to ensure separation from the PE fraction and no adhesive residue should remain.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be done byminimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided that food-gradeinks are used.
Labels made of other materials that are not water-washable can negatively affect the sorting or recyclate quality of the PE fraction.
PVC sleeves and labels should generally be avoided, even if they are water-washable.
Large-area decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) and full-surface sleeves made ofa material other than PE can impair the sorting of the packaging 8. Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of > 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting
into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures are ideally made of the same base material as the tray/cup (e.g. HDPE, LDPE,
LLDPE, MDPE).
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PE fraction
in small quantities.
PP closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities9.
Closures made of other materials such as PET, PET-G, PS and PLA should be avoided,
as these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS, PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5µm) can impair the sorting.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

30

3.2.2 PP

DECORATIONCLOSURE

MATERIAL

MATERIAL
In the best case PP trays and cups are as unpigmented as possible (transparent) or whiteand consist of PP monomaterial without any barrier.
If barrier requirements exist, a silica (SiOx), alumina (Al2O3) barrier or carbon plasma
coating 7 (for colored bottles only) can be used, as these do not significantly affect thequality of the recyclate.
A multi-layer composite material can be used if necessary, if this is made up of different PP
types (e.g. OPP, BOPP).
Multilayer composites with small amounts of PE are recyclable.9
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 1 g/cm3 and thus thedensity grading is not impaired.
If necessary, an EVOH barrier layer can be used, provided that applicable limit values arecomplied with.10
The metallisation (aluminium vapour deposition) of the base material can cause problems
in sorting under certain circumstances. In addition, this can lead to a deterioration of therecyclate quality (grey colouration).
A material compound with PS, PVC, PLA, PET and PET-G should be avoided, as this contaminates the PP fraction.
The use of density-altering additives (e.g. talc, CaCO3) as well as foaming agents for chemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to ≥ 1 g/cm³, can cause problems insorting, as the material-specific classification is no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC, PA and EVOH10 (if applicable limits are exceeded) represent interfering substances in the recycling of the material, as they contaminate
the recyclate.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting.

31

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant andnon-bleeding in order to prevent potential contamination.
Minimal printing with light or glazing colours is advantageous.
If labels and sleeves are used, they should be made of the same base material (PP) as the
packaging.
In-mould labels made of PP can also be used. However, a high degree of printing canhave a negative effect here, as the label is recycled together with the base material.
If the decoration is made of a material other than PP, a maximum of 50% of the packaging
surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the base material. 8
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should best be carried out inthe form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do notrelease fibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels and sleeves made of PE and PET can be used if necessary, provided thata maximum of 50% of the packaging surface is covered. 8
In addition, all labels made of a material other than PP or PE should be water-washable, inorder to ensure separation from the PP fraction and no adhesive residue should remain.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be done byminimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided that food-gradeinks are used.
Labels made of other materials that are not water-washable can negatively affect the sorting or recyclate quality of the PP fraction.
PVC sleeves and labels should generally be avoided, even if they are water-washable.
Large-area decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) and full-surface sleeves made of amaterial other than PP can impair the sorting of the packaging. 8 Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of > 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting
into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
In the best case, closures are made of the same basic material (PP) as the trays and cups.
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PP fraction in small quantities.9
PE closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities.9
Closures made of other materials such as PET-G, PS, and PLA should be avoided, as these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5 µm) can impair the sorting.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

32

3.2.3 PAPER/ CARDBOARD/ CARTON
MATERIAL

CLOSUREDECORATION

MATERIAL
The fibres for the production come from coniferous and deciduous trees in the best case.
An uncoated and unlaminated version is preferable, especially to simplify the digestion of
the fibre and to prevent contamination.
A one-sided plastic coating / plastic laminate can be recycled if the fibre content is > 95 %.
Mineral fillers such as kaolin, talc and calcium carbonate, as well as titanium dioxide (white pigment) and starch, can be used without hesitation as they do not interfere with therecycling process.
Fibres from alternative, non-woody plants such as hemp, grass cotton etc. are a material
that can potentially interfere with paper recycling. In small quantities, however, these are
not critical.
A one-sided plastic coating/plastic laminate can be used if required, if the fibre content
remains between 95 % and 85 %.

Pulping of the fibres is also made more difficult by a plastic coating on both sides, wax
coatings, siliconised paper and wet-strengthened fibre portions6.
Similarly, one-sided plastic coatings/plastic laminates should be avoided if the fibre
content is < 85 %.

33

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
The printing shall be as minimal as possible and shall be carried out with EuPIA-compliant
printing inks.
Adhesive components such as viewing windows, labels and other plastic components
should be avoided. They should be designed in such a way that they can be easily separated in the recycling process or by the consumer.
If the packaging is metallised, the metallisation should not cover more than 60% of the
packaging surface.
Viewing windows and other plastic components that cannot be easily separated from thepaper are interfering materials.
It is essential to avoid inks containing mineral oil, as these may contaminate
the secondary fibres.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Paper tapes can be used as long as the adhesive application does not lead to theformation of problematic stickies12.
In general, it is important to use adhesive applications that do not lead to the formationof problematic stickies in the recycling process12.
When using staples and plastic adhesive tapes, care should be taken to ensure that they
can be separated in the recycling process or in advance by end consumers.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

34

3.2.4 GLASSCLOSUREGLASSMATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
Regular three-component packaging glass (silica sand, soda, limestone) in standard
colouring transparent/white, green or brown (or related quartz) can be recycled effectively.
The heavy metal concentration in the material must comply with Commission Decision
2001/171/EC, in order to prevent contamination.
The use of alternative, opaque or metallic shades makes it more difficult to match therequired standard shades in recycled glass again.
Black or dark-blue coloured glass should, therefore, be avoided.
Non-packaging glass such as heat-resistant glass (e.g. Boro silicate glass), lead crystal,cryolite glass and enamel components are major impurities that affect the recyclate qualityof packaging glass

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Decoration on glass packaging should preferably be done by engraving.
Wet-strength paper labels and direct printing with EuPIA-compliant coatings and inks can also be used without any problems.
If the glass container is fully colour-coated, this can lead to problems with the detection
and sorting of the material.
Plastic labels should only be used when necessary.
Permanently-adhering and large-area sleeves and plastic labels can, under certain
circumstances, interfere with the sorting and impact processing of the glass.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures made of ferromagnetic (alloy) metals can be easily separated during
magnetic sorting.
Closures made of plastic and aluminium can also be separated and thus do not interferewith the glass melt.
Closures made of ceramic and swing stoppers with ceramic or porcelain components
respectively can lead to unwanted inclusions in the recycled glass and should be avoided.

35

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

3.2.5 ALUMINIUM
CLOSURE

MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
The aluminium used should only consist of non-ferrous(NF) metal components to prevent
contamination in recycling.
In a best case, it concerns a mono-material package in which all components are made ofaluminium.
A lacquer coating does not interfere with the conventional recycling process.
For aluminium in composite materials (e.g. in combination with plastic), there is usually no
possibility for high-quality recycling.

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Embossing does not have a negative impact on recycling.
Direct printing on the packaging should be carried out with EuPIA-compliant coatings andprinting inks.
Non-compliant inks can reduce the quality of the secondary material.
PVC labels should be avoided as they can cause problems in the recycling process.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closure systems made of aluminium can be recycled together with the base material andare, therefore, to be preferred.
Plastic closures should be designed in such a way that they can be separated before disposal or during the sorting process.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

36

3.2.6 TINPLATE

MATERIAL

CLOSUREDECORATION

MATERIAL
Only ferromagnetic (alloy) metals should be used toprevent contamination in recycling.
A lacquer coating does not interfere with the conventional recycling process.

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Embossing does not have a negative impact on recycling.
Direct printing on the packaging should be carried out with EuPIA-compliant coatingsand printing inks.
Paper banderoles can also be used without any problems.
Non-compliant inks can reduce the quality of the secondary material.
PVC labels should be avoided as they can cause problems during processing in therecycling process.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Paper adhesive tapes can be used as long as the adhesive application does not cause theformation of problematic stickies.12
In general, it is important to use adhesive applications that do not cause the formation ofproblematic stickies in the recycling process.12

37

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

3.3 FLEXIBLE PACKAGING
3.3.1 ALUMINIUM
GENERAL

Disclaimer: In the current recycling structure,material recycling can only be assumed forflexible aluminium packaging that is collected separately. Aluminium-plastic composite
foils are, therefore, excluded. If these foils aredisposed of in the lightweight fraction, they

are sorted out as contaminants in the sorting
process and typically sent for thermal recycling. The following table thus primarily refers to the design of pure aluminium foils andblanks that are not in the composite.

GENERAL
The aluminium used should only consist of non-ferrous(NF) metal components to prevent
contamination in recycling.
Embossing does not have a negative impact on recycling.
Direct printing on the packaging should be done with EuPIA-compliant coatings andprinting inks.
For aluminium in composite materials (e.g. in combination with plastic), there is usually no
possibility for high-quality recycling6.
Non-compliant inks can reduce the quality of the secondary material.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

38

3.3.2 PE

MATERIAL

CLOSUREDECORATION

MATERIAL
Non-conforming inks can reduce the quality of the secondary material.
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx) barrier, a carbon plasma coating7 or an
aluminum oxide (Al2O3) barrier can be used, as these do not significantly affect the qualityof the recyclate.

A multilayer composite material can be used, if necessary, if it is made up of different PEtypes (e.g. LDPE, HDPE). Multilayer composite materials with small amounts of PP are also
recyclable9.
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 0.97 g/cm3 and thus
the density grading is not impaired.
If necessary, an EVOH barrier layer can be used, provided that applicable limit values arecomplied with10.
The metallisation (aluminium vapour deposition) of the base material can cause problems
in sorting under certain circumstances. In addition, this can lead to a deterioration of therecyclate quality (grey colouration).

A material compound with any other plastics should be avoided, as this will contaminate
the PE fraction.
The use of density-altering additives (e.g. talc, CaCO3) as well as foaming agents for chemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to ≥ 1 g/cm³, can cause problems insorting, as the material-specific classification is no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC, PVC, PA, aluminium6 and EVOH10 (if applicable
limits are exceeded) represent interfering substances in the reprocessing of the material, as
they contaminate the recyclate.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting.

39

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant andnon-bleeding in order to prevent potential contamination.
Minimal printing with light or glazing colours is advantageous.
If labels are used, they should be made of the same base material as the packaging(e.g. HDPE, LDPE, MDPE, LLDPE).
If the decoration is made of a material other than PE, a maximum of 50% of the packaging
surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the base material8.
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should best be carried out inthe form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do notrelease fibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels made of PP can be used if necessary, provided that a maximum of 50% of the
packaging surface is covered8.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be done byminimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided that food-gradeinks are used.
Labels made of materials other than PE, PP or paper should be avoided.
Large-scale decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) made of a material other thanPE can impair the sorting of the packaging8.
Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of> 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures are ideally made of the same base material as the film(e.g. HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, MDPE).
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PE
fraction in small quantities9.
PP closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities.
Closures made of other materials such as PET, PET-G, PS and PLA should be avoided,
as these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS and PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5 µm) can impair the sorting.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

40

3.3.3 PP
DECORATION

MATERIAL

CLOSURE

MATERIAL
In the best case PP flexibles are as unpigmented as possible (transparent) or white andconsist of PP monomaterial without any barrier
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx) barrier, a carbon plasma coating7 or an
aluminum oxide (Al2O3) barrier can be used, as these do not significantly affect the qualityof the recyclate.
A multilayer composite material can be used, if necessary, if it is made up of different PE
types (e.g. LDPE, HDPE). Multilayer composite materials with small amounts of PP are also
recyclable.
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 0.97 g/cm3 and thus
the density grading is not impaired.
If necessary, an EVOH barrier layer can be used, provided that applicable limit values arecomplied with10.
The metallisation (aluminium vapour deposition) of the base material can cause problems
in sorting under certain circumstances. In addition, this can lead to a deterioration of therecyclate quality (grey colouration).

A material compound with any other plastics should be avoided, as this will contaminate
the PE fraction.
The use of density-altering additives (e.g. talc, CaCO3) as well as foaming agents forchemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to ≥ 1 g/cm³, can cause problems
in sorting, as the material-specific classification is no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC, PVC, PA, aluminium6 and EVOH10 (if applicable
limits are exceeded) represent interfering substances in the reprocessing of the material, as
they contaminate the recyclate.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned
throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting.

41

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant andnon-bleeding in order to prevent potential contamination.
Minimal printing with light or glazing colours is advantageous.
If labels are used, they should be made of the same base material as the packaging(e.g. HDPE,LDPE, MDPE,LLDPE).
If the decoration is made of a material other than PE, a maximum of 50% of the packaging
surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the base material8.
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should best be carried out inthe form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do notrelease fibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels made of PP can be used if necessary, provided that a maximum of 50% of the
packaging surface is covered8.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be doneby minimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided that foodgrade inks are used.

Labels made of materials other than PE, PP or paper should be avoided.
Large-scale decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) made of a material other thanPE can impair the sorting of the packaging8.
Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of> 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures are ideally made of the same base material as the film (e.g. HDPE, LDPE,
LLDPE, MDPE).
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PE
fraction in small quantities9.
PP closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities9.
Closures made of other materials such as PET, PET-G, PS and PLA should be avoided,
as these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS and PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5 µm) can impair the sorting.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

42

3.3.4 PAPER

CLOSURE

MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
The fibres for the production come from coniferous and deciduous trees in the best case.
An uncoated and unlaminated version is preferable, especially to simplify the digestion of
the fibre and to prevent contamination.
A one-sided plastic coating/plastic laminate can be recycled if the fibre content is > 95 %.
Mineral fillers such as kaolin, talc and calcium carbonate as well as titanium dioxide(white pigment) and starch can be used without hesitation as they do not interfere withthe recycling process.
Fibres from alternative, non-woody plants such as hemp and cotton etc. are a material that canpotentially interfere with paper recycling. In small quantities, however, these are not critical.
A one-sided plastic coating/laminate can be used if required, if the fibre content remains
between 95 % and 85 %.
The disintegration of the fibres is also made more difficult by a plastic coating on bothsides, wax coatings, siliconised paper and fibre components with a wet-strength finish.
Similarly, one-sided plastic coatings/plastic laminates should be avoided if the fibre
content is < 85 %.

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
The printing shall be as minimal as possible and shall be carried out with EuPIA-compliant
printing inks.
Adhesive components such as viewing windows, labels and other plastic components
should be avoided. They should be designed in such a way that they can be easily
separated in the recycling process or by the end consumer.
If the packaging is metallised, the metallisation should not cover more than 60 %of the packaging surface.
Viewing windows and other plastic components that cannot be easily separated from thepaper are interfering materials.
It is essential to avoid inks containing mineral oil, as these may contaminate thesecondary fibres.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Paper tapes can be used as long as the adhesive application does not lead to the formationof problematic stickies12.
In general, it is important to use adhesive applications that do not lead to the formation ofproblematic stickies in the recycling process12.
When using staples and plastic adhesive tapes, care should be taken to ensure that they
can be separated in the recycling process or in advance by end consumers.

43

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

3.4 TUBES
3.4.1 ALUMINIUM
MATERIALDECORATIONCLOSURE

MATERIAL
The aluminium used should only consist of non-ferrous(NF) metal components to prevent
contamination in recycling.
In a best case, it concerns a mono-material package in which all components are made ofaluminium.
A lacquer coating does not interfere with the conventional recycling process
For aluminium in composite materials (e.g. in combination with plastic), there is usually no
possibility for high-quality recycling.

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Embossing does not have a negative impact on recycling.
Direct printing on the packaging should be carried out with EuPIAcompliant coatingsand printing inks.
Non-compliant inks can reduce the quality of the secondary material.
PVC labels should be avoided as they can cause problems during processing in therecycling process.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closure systems made of aluminium can be recycled together with the base material andare, therefore, to be preferred.
Plastic caps and valve caps should be designed in such a way that they can be separated
before disposal or during the sorting process.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

44

3.4.2 PE
MATERIALDECORATIONCLOSURE

MATERIAL
In the best case, PE trays and cups are as unpigmented as possible (transparent) or whiteand consist of PE mono-material without a barrier.
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx), an aluminium oxide (Al2O3) barrier or acarbon plasma coating (for coloured cups only) can be used, as these do not significantly
affect the quality of the recyclate.

A multi-layer composite material can be used if necessary, if this is made up of different
PE types (e.g. LDPE, HDPE). Multilayer composite materials with small amounts of PP are
also recyclable.9
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 0.995 g/cm3 and thus
the density grading is not impaired.
The metallisation (aluminium vapour deposition) of the base material can cause problems
in sorting under certain circumstances11. In addition, this can lead to a deterioration of therecyclate quality (grey colouration).

A material compound with PS, PVC, PLA, PET and PET-G should be avoided, as thiscontaminates the PE fraction.
The use of density-changing additives (e.g. talc, filled polyolefins (FPO), CaCO3) as well as
foaming agents for chemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to ≥ 0.995 g/cm³,
can cause problems in sorting, as the material-specific classification is no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC, PA and PE-X represent interfering substancesin the recycling of the material, as they contaminate the recyclate. Aluminium components
where the (metal) layer thickness exceeds 5 µm can lead to unwanted rejection of the packaging. Aluminium barrier laminates (ABL) with the PE/ALU/PE structure should,
therefore, be avoided.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned
throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting.

45

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant andnon-bleeding in order to prevent potential contamination.
Minimal printing with light or glazing colours is advantageous.
If labels are used, they should be made of the same base material as the packaging (e.g.
HDPE, LDPE, MDPE, LLDPE).
In-mould labels made of PE can also be used. However, a high degree of printing can havea negative effect here, as the label is recycled together with the base material.
If the decoration is made of a material other than PE, a maximum of 50% of the packaging
surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the base material8.
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should best be carried out inthe form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do not releasefibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels made of PP/ OPP and PET can be used if necessary, provided that a maximum of 50%of the packaging surface is covered8.
In addition, all labels made of a material other than PE should be water-washable to ensure
separation from the PE fraction and no adhesive residue should remain.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be carried out
by means of minimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided thatfood-grade inks are used.
Labels made of other materials that are not water-washable can negatively affect thesorting or recyclate quality of the PP fraction.
PVC labels should generally be avoided, even if they are water-washable.
Large-scale decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) made of a material other thanPE can impair the sorting of the packaging8.
Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of> 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closures are ideally made of the same base material as the tube (e.g. HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE,
MDPE).
Closure systems without liners are preferable. If necessary, EVA or TPE liners should be
used.
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PE fraction
in small quantities9.
PP closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities9.
Closures made of other materials such as PET, PET-G, PS and PLA should be avoided, as
these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS, PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Pump systems made of other materials (especially with glass & metal springs) also
represent interfering materials.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5 µm) can impair the sorting.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

46

3.4.3 PP
MATERIALDECORATIONCLOSURE

MATERIAL
In the best case PP tubes are as unpigmented as possible (transparent) or white andconsist of PP mono-material without barrier.
If barrier requirements exist, a silicon oxide (SiOx), an aluminium oxide (Al2O3) barrier
or a carbon plasma coating7 (for coloured bottles only) can be used, as these do notsignificantly affect the quality of the recyclate.
A multi-layer composite material can be used if necessary, if this is made up of different PP
types (e.g. OPP, BOPP).
Multilayer composites with small amounts of PE are recyclable9.
Additives can be added if the density of the base material remains < 0.995 g/cm3 and thus
the density grading is not impaired.
The metallisation (aluminium vapour deposition) of the base material can cause problems
in sorting under certain circumstances. In addition, this can lead to a deterioration of therecyclate quality (grey colouration).
A material compound with PS, PVC, PLA, PET and PET-G should be avoided, as thiscontaminates the PP fraction.
The use of density-changing additives (e.g. talc, filled polyolefins (FPO), CaCO3) aswell as foaming agents for chemical expansion, which lead to an increase in density to≥ 0,995 g/cm³, can cause problems in sorting, as the material-specific classification is
no longer possible.
Barrier layers or the composite with PVDC und PA represent interfering substances in the
reprocessing of the material, as they contaminate the recyclate.
Aluminium components where the (metal) layer thickness exceeds 5 µm can lead to theunwanted rejection of the packaging. Aluminium barrier laminates (ABL) with the PP/
ALU/PP structure should, therefore, be avoided.
The addition of oxo-degradable additives damages the recyclate and is banned throughout the EU from 2021 due to the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Dark colouring can have a negative effect on the recyclate quality.
Carbon black -based colours can prevent sorting.

47

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESDECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
If the packaging is printed directly, the printing inks must at least be EuPIA-compliant andnon-bleeding in order to prevent potential contamination.
If labels are used, they should be made of the same base material (PP) as the tube body.
In-mould labels made of PP can also be used. However, a high degree of printing can havea negative effect here, as the label is recycled together with the base material.
If the decoration is made of a material other than PP, a maximum of 50% of the packaging
surface should be covered so as not to hinder the correct sorting of the base material.8
The batch coding and the indication of the best-before date should best be carried out inthe form of an embossing or laser marking.
Wet-strength paper labels are preferable to conventional paper labels as they do not release fibres that contaminate the recyclate.
Labels made of PE and PET can be used if necessary, provided that a maximum of 50% of
the packaging surface is covered8.
In addition, all labels that are made of a material other than PP or PE should be removed,
be water washable to ensure separation from PP fraction and no adhesive residue should
remain.
The batch coding and indication of the best-before date can, if necessary, also be done byminimal direct printing with other coding systems (e.g. ink-jet), provided that food-gradeinks are used.
Labels made of other materials that are not water-washable can negatively affect thesorting or recyclate quality of the PP fraction.
PVC labels should generally be avoided, even if they are water-washable.
Large decorations (> 50% of the packaging surface) made of a material other than PP,
can affect the sorting of the packaging8.
Adhesive materials containing metal or aluminium (with a layer thickness of> 5 µm) can lead to unwanted sorting into the metal fraction.
Bleeding inks should be avoided.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
In a best case, closures are made of the same basic material (PP) as the tube.
Closure systems without liners are preferable. If necessary, EVA- or TPE liners can be used.
If sealing foils are used, they must be easy to remove without leaving any residue.
Flexible closures made of PE and PP plastic laminates are compatible with the PP fraction
in small quantities9.
PE closures can lead to contamination in larger quantities9.
Closures made of other materials such as PET, PET-G, PS and PLA should be avoided, as
these can lead to secondary contamination of the PE fraction.
Metals, thermosets, EPS, PVC as well as seals and silicones that cannot be completely
removed are considered interfering substances.
Sealing foils that are not completely removable and contain an aluminium component(layer thickness > 5 µm) can impair the sorting.
Pump systems made of other materials (especially with glass & metal springs) also
represent interfering materials.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

48

3.5 CANS
3.5.1 ALUMINIUM

CLOSUREDECORATION

MATERIAL

MATERIAL
The aluminium used should only consist of non-ferrous (NF) metal components in orderto prevent contamination in recycling.
In a best case, it concerns a mono-material package in which all components are madeof aluminium.
A lacquer coating does not interfere with the conventional recycling process.
In the recycling process of aerosol cans, an additional treatment step is required, which is why the design is rather disadvantageous.
Aerosol cans with non-hydrocarbon-based propellants are preferable.
Spray systems with pump sprayers are refillable and propellant-free and can offer analternative to aerosol cans, provided that individual parts made of other materials(e.g. plastic caps) can be easily separated in the recycling process.
Foreign bodies made of other materials such as 'widget' nitrogen balls in beer cans,plastic caps and valve caps should only be used when necessary.
Aerosol cans with hydrocarbon-based propellants and spray cans with high residual
contents are particularly problematic.

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Embossing does not have a negative impact on recycling.
Direct printing on the packaging should be carried out with EuPIA -compliant coatingsand printing inks.
Non-compliant inks can reduce the quality of the secondary material.
PVC labels should be avoided, as they cause problems during processing in therecycling process

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Closure systems made of aluminium can be recycled together with the base material
and are, therefore, to be preferred.
Plastic caps and valve caps should be designed in such a way that they can be separated
before disposal or during the sorting process.

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DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

3.5.2 TINPLATE
CLOSURE

MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
Only ferromagnetic (alloy) metals should be used toprevent contamination in recycling.
A lacquer coating does not interfere with the conventional recycling process
In the recycling process of aerosol cans, an additional treatment step is required, which is
why the design is rather disadvantageous.
Aerosol cans with non-hydrocarbon-based propellants are preferable
Aerosol cans with hydrocarbon-based propellants and spray cans with high residual contents are particularly problematic.

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Embossing does not have a negative impact on recycling.
Direct printing on the packaging should be done with EuPIA-compliant coatings andprinting inks.
Paper banderoles can also be used without any problems.
Non-compliant inks can reduce the quality of the secondary material.
PVC labels should be avoided as they can cause problems during processing in therecycling process.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
In the best case, closures are also made of ferromagnetic (alloy) metals, as these can berecycled together with the base material.
Plastic caps and valve caps should be designed in such a way that they can be separated
before disposal or during the sorting process.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

50

3.6 FOLDING BOX OUT OF
PAPER/CARDBOARD/CARTON

CLOSURE

MATERIALDECORATION51

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPESMATERIAL
The fibres for the production come from coniferous and deciduous trees in the best case.
An uncoated and unlaminated version is preferable, especially to simplify the digestion of
the fibre and to prevent contamination.
A one-sided plastic coating/plastic laminate can be recycled if the fibre content is > 95 %.
Mineral fillers such as kaolin, talc and calcium carbonate as well as titanium dioxide(white pigment) and starch can be used without hesitation as they do not interfere in
the recycling process.

Fibres from alternative, non-woody plants such as hemp and cotton etc. are a material that canpotentially interfere with paper recycling. In small quantities, however, these are not critical.
A one-sided plastic coating/plastic laminate can be used if required, if the fibre content
remains between 95 % and 85 %.

The pulping of the fibres is also made more difficult by a plastic coating on both sides, wax
coatings, siliconised paper and wet-strengthened fibre portions.
Similarly, one-sided plastic coatings/plastic laminates should be avoided if the fibre
content is < 85 %.

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
The printing shall be as minimal as possible and shall be carried out with EuPIA-compliant
printing inks.
Adhesive components such as windows, labels and other plastic components should be
avoided. They should be designed in such a way that they can be easily separated in therecycling process or by the consumer.
If the packaging is metallised, the metallisation should not cover more than 60% of the
packaging surface.
Viewing windows and other plastic components that cannot be easily separated fromthe paper are interfering materials.
It is essential to avoid inks containing mineral oil, as these may contaminate thesecondary fibres.

CLOSURE -SYSTEM
Paper tapes can be used as long as the adhesive application does not lead to the formation of problematic stickies12.
In general, it is important to use adhesive applications that do not lead to the formation ofproblematic stickies in the recycling process12.
When using staples and plastic adhesive tapes, care should be taken to ensure that they
can be separated in the recycling process or in advance by end consumers.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

52

3.7 COMPOSITE BEVERAGE CARTON
CLOSURE
MATERIALDECORATION

MATERIAL
The layer structure should correspond to the standard composite system for beverage
cartons for clear identification in the recycling stream13 (PE-paper-PE or PE-paper-PEaluminum-PE).
Single- and double-sided plastic coatings do not cause any problems in the recycling
process, as this is designed for the special processing of composite beverage cartons.
Industry-standard additives in the paper content, such as kaolin, talc, calcium carbonate, titanium oxide and starch, can be used without any problems, but proportionallyreduce the fiber yield in the recycling process.
Non-wood plant fibres such as hemp, grass and cotton can reduce the fibre yield in therecycling process and should only be used if necessary.
Special designs with additional outer coating that restrict sorting (e.g. metallised PET
films) should be avoided.
Wet-strengthened fibre components can make fibre digestion more difficult and should
be avoided

DECORATION AND OTHER COMPONENTS
Components made of HDPE or PP with easy separability do not restrict the recycling
process.
Printing should be done exclusively with EuPIA-compliant inks.
Metallised surfaces or coatings that interfere with NIR detection can lead to problems inthe sorting process and should be avoided.
Paints containing mineral oil can lead to contamination of the secondary fibres.

CLOSURE SYSTEM
Plastic closures (e.g. made of HDPE or PP) can be separated from the fibre content in
the recycling process.

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DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES

4. DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONSFOR PACKAGING TYPES(UNDER DEVELOPMENT)
In coordination with the Circular Packaging
Design Guideline of the FH Campus Wien,
work is underway to develop design recommendations for further packaging types. For

the following packaging types, less specific recommendations are currently available,
which is why only explicit recommendations
or design criteria to be avoided are mentioned.

4.1 PAPER CANS/ ROUND TINS

It is recommended to keep the proportion of non-fibre materials as low as possible and, forexample, to also form the base and lid from paper. If a fibre content of more than 95 % 14 isreached, it is recommended to check the recyclability and the possibility of recovery

In most cases, paper composite cans contain a barrier layer of aluminium and a composite
with plastic. Therefore, in the usual case, this structure is not considered recyclable. If, inaddition, there is a base or lid made of tinplate, these pass through the magnetic separatorof the sorting plants into the metal processing and only the metal content is recycled. If thefibre content is less than 95% and the paper is coated on both sides, coated with wax/paraffin or impregnated, there are additional structural restrictions on recycling.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES (UNDER DEVELOPMENT)

54

4.2 BUCKETS AND TUBS

Buckets should preferably be made of mono-material. Typically, buckets and tubs are
made of HDPE, PP or tinplate. For design recommendations, see the material-specificinformation in the tables for trays and cups.

Metal handles should be avoided in plastic buckets and tubs, as these cause a high degreeof sorting effort during manual sorting (larger containers) or end up in the metal fraction in
automatic sorting (smaller containers).

4.3 CANISTERS

Canisters should preferably be made of mono-material. Typically, these are made of HDPE,
PP or tinplate. The decoration and closures should be coordinated with the respective
material-specific specifications in the tables for trays and cups.
The adhesion of non-water-soluble ingredients must be avoided.

55

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES (UNDER DEVELOPMENT)

4.4 BLISTERIn the best case, a recyclable blister packaging solution consists of mono-materials(e.g. plastic insert with plastic cover foil or full cardboard blister).
In the case of solid cardboard blisters, make sure that they are only coated on one sideand the fibre content is >95 % 14. The combination of plastic and paper in a blister packshould only be used if the components are easily separable.

Blisters made of PET, PVC and PS should be avoided as they are not recyclable or lead tounwanted contamination.
The combination or composition of metals and plastics should be avoided, as the individual materials cannot be recycled to a high quality.

4.5 PET TRAYS

If plastic trays are made of PET, mono-material (i.e. 100% PET) is considered to have good
recycling properties. PET film or plastic film with a density of less than 1 g/m3 which can beseparated in the process is suitable as a closure solution. If plastic labels are used, they should
also have a density of less than 1 g/m3 and cover as small an area as possible so as not to
impair material sorting.

To ensure a high recyclate quality, no multilayer materials should be used for PET trays.
The modification of PET (e.g. PET-G, C-PET, expanded PET (LDPET)) also leads to problems in the recycling of thermoformed PET. Composites with other plastics, e.g. PE, PLA,
PVC, PS and a PET CJSC structure should, therefore, be avoided. Likewise, suction inserts
can lead to problems in the recycling process of PET trays, especially if they are firmly
bonded. Labels with a density > 1 g/m3, paper labels containing Bisphenol A or non-wetstrength paper labels should be avoided.16

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES (UNDER DEVELOPMENT)

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4.6 PET FILMS

Only in individual cases can PET films be positively classified as part of a recyclable
packaging system, for example, as a flexible closure on PET trays according to therecommendations of Petcore Europe

Currently, PET films for flexible packaging are not recycled due to material and quantity
restrictions, which is why no recommendations for the design can be defined at present.

4.7 NETS

Nets can be made of different materials and in many cases consist of PE, EPS or cellulose.
The recyclability, therefore, depends on the base material and is also related to thetechnical conditions in the sorting plant, as small-format nets in particular are in dangerof being rejected.
If nets are used, it is important to use materials that are as widely available as possible
and also have a recycling structure (e.g. PE). In addition, closures, clips and markings (e.g.
labels, banderoles) should be made of the same material as the net.

Metal clips and detachable small parts should be avoided, as well as other details madeof incompatible materials (cf. material-specific information in the tables
for flexible packaging).

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DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES (UNDER DEVELOPMENT)

4.8

PLASTIC FOLDING BOX

Folding boxes made of plastic are often made of PET or PP,; the material-specific specifications can be found in the tables for trays and cups. Applied adhesives and labels
must be adapted to the base material and direct printing should be kept to a minimum.

4.9

WOODEN PACKAGING

Auxiliaries made of other materials such as metal clips and adhering plastic parts areto be avoided. Insofar as wooden packaging is collected, only inferior quality can berecovered due to the material-specific properties.17

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES (UNDER DEVELOPMENT)

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4.10 FIBRE FORM

A fibre composite that is only partially wet-strengthened enables the fibre components
to be reopened. Applied adhesives5 must not lead to problematic stickies and labels
should ideally also be made of paper.

Strong moisture proofing15 can lead to a reduction in recyclability.

4.11

BAG-IN-BOX

Bag-in-box packaging consists of a combination of flexible packaging and a folding box(mainly made of corrugated board). Material-specific design criteria can be found in thetables for flexible packaging and folding boxes, as well as flexible packaging made of PE.
The recyclability of bag-in-box packaging is strongly dependent on whether the final consumer separates the components of the packaging and disposes of them separately. If the
packaging is properly separated and disposed of, it can be assumed that the fibre part ofthe cardboard and the inner film (depending on the material used) are recyclable (provided
they comply with the recommendations for recyclable design).
Non-adhesive small parts and combinations of non-compatible plastics should be
refrained from (see material-specific information for flexible packaging).

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DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PACKAGING TYPES (UNDER DEVELOPMENT)5. NOTES/GLOSSARY
1	Exceptions currently exist through the requirements of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP, 2019)
for personal and household care products, provided that packaging with a plastic sleeve with double
perforation is permitted and information on separation is provided (regulation applies until 2022). In
addition, an exception can be made if it can be proven by means of empirical studies that the individual
packaging components are separated by the users to a high percentage.
2	If the decoration covers more than 50% of the packaging surface, the sortability of the packaging materialmust be proven, in order to be considered recyclable.
3 In the case of transparent base material, discolouration may occur.
4	The approval of the quantity content and design of an EVOH barrier may differ depending on the type of
packaging and must not exceed a certain value. Specific information is provided by RecyClass at:https://recyclass.eu/de/uber-recyclass/richtlinien- fuer-recyclingorientiertes-produktdesign/ bereitgestellt
5	Information on the recyclability of adhesives is currently being revised and will be published in a forthcoming version of the FH Campus Wien - Circular Packaging Design Guideline.
6 Deviating findings must be examined on a case-by-case basis.
7 Discolouration may occur in the case of transparent base material8	If the decoration covers more than 50% of the packaging surface, the sortability of the packaging must be
proven by means of a sorting test, in order to be considered recyclable.
9 Exact limits for the PP content are currently under discussion.
10	The permitted mass percentage and design of an EVOH barrier varies depending on the type of packaging, and should not exceed a certain value. Specific information is provided by RecyClass at:https://recyclass.eu/de/uber-recyclass/richtlinien-fuer- recyclingorientiertes-produktdesign/ bereitgestellt.
11	For example, the sorting is not affected if the metallisation is applied in an intermediate layer of thelaminate structure.
12	Specific adhesive requirements and recommendations are currently being worked on in a separate
working group at the FH Campus Wien 'Focus Group Recycling-Ready Adhesives'.
13 However, the sorting process may differ depending on the plant.
14	The limits for the minimum fibre content may vary due to current country-specific requirements (e.g.
minimum 80 % fibre content in Austria). Information on the technical recyclability of paper packaging ispublished by Cepi - Confederation of European Paper Industries:
https://www.twosides.info/UK/cepi-publish-paper-based-packaging-recyclability- guidelines/
15	Information on wet solvents is currently being revised. Due to the ongoing updates of the FH Campus
Wien – Circular Packaging Design Guideline, the classification of recyclability may differ.
16	Further information and ongoing developments on thermoformed PET packaging are being prepared by
Petcore Europe and are available online.
17	This does not apply to packaging for special transports and heavy loads, which are subject to separatetransport safety regulations.

NOTES

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Back
AA blocker
Acetaldehyde blocker is an additive in plastics technology that prevents the transfer of acetaldehyde, ataste-active substance, from PET into the food, by binding it.

Additive
Additives are substances that are added to products in small quantities in order to achieve (or improve) certain
properties. In the case of plastics, this happens during compounding. Examples of additives are plasticisers, dyes,
fillers and stabilisers.

Adhesive application
Adhesive application describes the way in which an adhesive is applied.

Al2O3
Aluminium oxide is used to coat plastics in order to improve the barrier properties. For this purpose, aluminium isvapour-deposited onto the substrate in extremely thin layers.
This can be applied to film packaging, as well as rigid packaging.

Batch coding
A batch describes the quantity of a product that was produced or packaged under the same conditions. By meansof the corresponding batch code or batch number, which is affixed to the packaging, this batch can be determined
and it is possible to trace back to when the product was produced and packaged.

Best-before date
The best-before date indicates the time until which the manufacturer guarantees that the food will retain its
specific properties, for example, smell or taste, if stored correctly.

Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a substance which is used, among other things, as a plasticiser in the production of plastics
and which is considered to be potentially hazardous to health due to its hormone-active effect in the human body.
Examples for the use of Bisphenol A are coatings on thermal paper, for example (e.g. cash register receipts) orinterior coating of food cans.

BOPP
BOPP is a biaxially (longitudinally and transversely) stretched polypropylene. The purpose of stretching is toincrease strength and transparency.

CaCO3
Calcium carbonate (limestone) is a mineral filler in plastics technology.

Carbon black
Carbon black is a pigment in the form of virtually pure elemental carbon with very small particles that is used tocolour various polymers.

Carbon plasma coatingThis carbon plasma coating process is used, among other things, to improve the barrier properties of plastics.

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GLOSSARBack
CodingPrinting applied directly to the primary packaging during the packaging or filling process, in most cases for batch
numbers and best-before dates (to be distinguished from direct printing processes such as offset, flexo, screen
or digital printing).

Compounding
Compounding is a preparation process in which the properties of a plastic are modified by the admixture ofadditives (various additives such as fillers, dyes, reinforcing materials, etc.). It usually involves melting, dispersing,mixing, degassing and extruding and is generally used to optimise the material properties.

Contamination
Contamination refers to the pollution or contamination of a substance by pollutants or interfering substances.

C-PET
C-PET is a designation for the material quality of PET (crystalline PET). In contrast to amorphous PET (A-PET),
C-PET has higher strength and stiffness, but lower impact strength and transparency.

Degree of printing
The degree of printing describes the ratio of the printed area to the total area.

De-inkingDe-inking (ink removal) is the process of removing ink from waste paper. The most important step in this mechanicaland chemical process is so-called flotation. During flotation, the previously shredded paper is freed from the ink
particles in a water bath together with chemicals and by adding air. The ink particles with the chemicals attach
themselves to the air bubbles and float upwards in the water mixture, where they can be skimmed off and removed.

Directive on waste (2008/98/EC)
Directive 2008/98/EC of 19 November 2008 on waste – the Waste Framework Directive – is a European
Community Directive and sets the legal framework for Member States’ waste legislation. Link:
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A32008L0098

Eddy current separator
The eddy current separator is used in the sorting of packaging waste and serves to separate non-magnetic but
electrically conductive substances such as aluminium and copper from a material stream. In the eddy current s
eparator, these substances are repelled due to a complex electromagnetic process.

EPBP
European PET Bottle Platform is a voluntary initiative launched by the European Federation of Bottled Waters(EFBW), the European Association of Plastic Recycling and Recovery Organizations (EPRO), Petcore Europe,
Plastics Recyclers Europe (PRE) and the Union of European Beverages Association (UNESDA).

EPS
EPS (extruded polystyrene) is a tough solid foam produced by the chemical extrusion of polystyrene and is mainly
known under the trade name Styrofoam.

GLOSSARY62

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EU Circular Economy Package
The Circular Economy Package of the EU that entered into force in July 2018 includes provisions for enhancing
circular approaches to raw materials at the European level. It sets new legally binding targets for waste recycling
and landfill reduction across Europe with specific deadlines.

EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC)
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive is a Europe-wide directive that serves to ensure the uniform,
environmentally sound and health-friendly nature of packaging and packaging waste.
Link: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A31994L0062

EuPIA
EuPIA is the European Printing Ink Association. It is part of the European Confederation of the Paint, Printing Ink
and Artists’ Colours Industry (CEPE). https://www.eupia.org/index.php?id=1

EU Plastics Strategy
The EU Plastics Strategy is a strategy paper for plastics that accompanies the Circular Economy Package: A European Strategy for Plastics in a Circular Economy ('EU Plastics Strategy'). This focuses on increasing the recycling
rates for all packaging materials, and on intensifying extended producer responsibility schemes, as well as
limitations on marketing individual plastic articles.

EVA
Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) refers to a group of copolymers formed by the polymerisation of ethylene and vinyl
acetate. EVA is available as a film material, for example, but the processing possibilities are diverse and similar to
those of LDPE.

EVOH
Ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) is used in the packaging sector as a barrier plastic. It can either be extruded or laminated as a thin layer onto cardboard or plastic. EVOH composites are mostly used where there are
increased barrier requirements such as e.g. for meat or sausage packaging.

Flexible packaging
Packaging which significantly changes shape during its intended use, under a low load. For example pouches
and bags. Definition in accordance with ÖNORM A 5405: 2009 06 15

Foaming agent
Foaming agents are used to give the basic mass of a plastic a low density by means of chemical blowing agents.

Full emptying capability
Full emptying capability refers to the suitability of a packaging with regard to the intended removal of thecontents by end consumers.

HDPE, LDPE, MDPE, LLDPE
Based on the different densities, a distinction is made between 4 main types of polyethylene (PE):HDPE - high-density polyethylene: Polyethylene with high-density.
MDPE - medium-density polyethylene: Polyethylene with medium density.
LDPE - low-density polyethylene: Polyethylene with low density.
LLDPE - linear, low-density polyethylene.

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GLOSSARYBack
Ink jetInk jet is a printing process in which the printed image is produced by the targeted firing or deflection of ink droplets.

In-mould label
A printed label is placed in the mould immediately before injection moulding, thermoforming or blow moulding
without adding adhesion promoters. The label thus becomes an integral part of the finished product.

Landfill Directive (1999/31/EC)
The EU Landfill Directive (1999/31/EC) creates uniform standards for landfills or for the disposal of waste in Europe.
Link: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:01999L0031- 20111213&from=DE
DIN EN ISO 14021
The International Standard specifies requirements for environmental supplier declarations including statements,
symbols and graphic representations for products. It also specifies selected terms frequently used in environmental
statements and provides guidance on their application.

Life cycle of packaging
The life cycle begins with the extraction of raw materials and ends with the recycling of the packaging.

Liner
The term liner is used in many ways in the packaging sector, for example, to designate different types of paper in
corrugated cardboard production (kraft liner, test liner). In the context of closures, the term refers to seals.

Littering
Littering is when small amounts of municipal waste are thrown away or left without using the existing disposal sites.
Definition in accordance with the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (BAFU)

Magnetic separator
Magnetic separation is a technique for separating and sorting waste. Over-conveyor band magnets or magnetic drums
remove ferromagnetic material (mainly ferrous materials) from material streams transported by a conveyor belt.

Material recycling
Material recycling looks to exploit material properties when recovering waste or for previously used products, andto manufacture using these secondary raw materials. This covers material (mechanical) and raw material (chemical)
recycling.

Material-specific structure (composite beverage carton)
The typical, material-specific standard structure or packaging material composition for composite beverage
cartons is as follows:

Composite beverage cartonsfor fresh products- PE interior coating- PE bonding layer- Cardboard- Printing- PE outer coating
The mass proportion of the components isapproximately 80 % cardboard and 20 % PE.

Aseptic composite beverage cartons for longer lasting products- PE interior coating- PE bonding layer- Aluminium film
- PE bonding layer- Cardboard- Printing- PE outer coating
The mass proportion of the components is approximately 75 % cardboard, 20 % PE and 5 % aluminium.

GLOSSARY64

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Microplastics
Microplastics are generally defined as small plastic particles, but there is currently no globally valid definition – including a size limit. According to the Austrian and German Federal Environmental Agency, microplastics are 'solid,
water-insoluble plastic particles that are five millimetres and smaller'. Microplastics are formed over time fromlarger pieces of plastic through abrasion and erosion, e.g. from tyre wear, the washing of synthetic textiles or thedecomposition of plastic waste in the sea.

Mono-material packaging
The components of the packaging are mainly made from one packaging material or at least from the main materialof a packaging material group. One example is blister packaging, in which the thermoformed lower part and thecover film consist of polypropylene.

Multilayer/composite materials
The combination of several packaging materials which cannot be separated by hand and none of which has a mass
proportion of more than 95 %. (Definition in accordance with the German Packaging Act)

Nanoparticles
Nanoparticles are small particles with a characteristic dimension in the size range from 1 to approx. 100 nm, which
are used as additives in plastics to produce novel mechanical, optical or chemical properties.

NF metals
Abbreviation for non-ferrous metals. This includes all metals except iron as well as metal alloys in which iron is not
the main element or does not exceed 50 %. Examples are copper, aluminium and brass.

NIAS
Food contact materials and articles may contain non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) that migrate into thefood under certain circumstances. These are not substances introduced for technical reasons, but by-products,
degradation products and contaminants. They can be chemical syntheses of raw materials, or also be produced
during the transport or recycling of packaging.

NIR
Near-infrared refers to a light spectrum in a range that is not visible to humans of between 760 and
2,500 nm. NIR spectrometers are used in the recycling process to detect and sort plastics and are basedon the principle of the transmission and reflection of radiation.

Non bleeding colours
Ink 'bleeding' refers to the spreading of inks or dyes into unwanted areas. If bleeding inks are used on packaging
and are recycled, this can either affect the quality of the recyclate and/or contaminate the wash water.

OPP
Polypropylene is a uni-axially (longitudinally) stretched polypropylene. It is often used as a packaging material for bags.

Optical brighteners
Optical brighteners are additives that are used to achieve a higher degree of whiteness or to compensate for aresidual colour cast. They are chemical compounds with fluorescent properties that are introduced into the plastic
and absorb invisible ultraviolet radiation and re-emit it as visible longer-wave radiation.

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GLOSSARYBack
Oxo-degradable plastic
Oxo-degradable plastic is plastic that contains certain additives (e.g. magan) that cause the plastic to break down
into microparticles or chemically degrade through oxidation. This presents an issue in that this type of plastic does
not biodegrade sufficiently and thus contributes to the pollution of the environment by microplastics or has anegative impact on the recycling of conventional plastics, if the articles are sent for recycling.

Oxygen absorber
Oxygen absorbers are additives that bind the (residual) oxygen in the packaging by means of a chemical reaction,in order to protect oxidation-sensitive food ingredients.

PA
Polyamide is a plastic based on peptide bonds, i.e. it is chemically related to protein molecules. It is characterisedby a high degree of toughness and strength, as well as good barrier properties. A well-known representative of thismaterial is nylon. In the packaging sector, PA is mainly used in the form of films.

PA additive
The PA additive of PET(PET - PA Blend) serves to increase the light and oxygen barrier. However, it can cause thematerial to be detected as potentially interfering by NIR identification.

Packaging components/packaging aids
Packaging usually consists of several components. These can be divided into packaging materials and packaging aids
and consist of different packaging materials. A packaging material is understood to be the component which forms
the main part of the packaging and encloses or holds together the packaged goods (contents). This is the basis.
This can be, for example, a bottle, a tray or a bag. Packaging aids are components that permit supplementaryfunctions such as closing, labelling, handling and removal.
These include staples, sealing foils, adhesive tapes, labels, banderoles, sleeves, closures, pull-on tapes and cushioning
materials. Together, basic packaging and packaging aids form the packaging.

Packaging system
The packaging system comprises the primary packaging (which envelops the product itself), secondary packaging(for grouping primary packaging) and tertiary packaging (transport unit).

PC
Polycarbonate is a transparent plastic with very high strength that is used for kitchen utensils, drinking bottles andmicrowave dishes. However, because of the bisphenol A it contains (suspected hormone activity), its use in the foodsector is declining.

PGA
Is a biopolymer-based plastic derived from polyglycolic acid (PGA), which is originally used in medical technology,
but can also potentially be used as a substitute for conventional plastics (e.g. PS, PP).

PE
Polyethylene is one of the most widely used plastics and is resistant to oils, greases and alcohols, as well as diluted
acids and alkalis. It is also very resistant to cold and can be welded. It is also produced in different qualities (see
HDPE, LDPE, MDPE). Depending on the quality/ type, PE is used in, among other things, freezer bags and carrierbags and as an inner coating on composite beverage cartons.

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PET
Polyethylene terephthalate is a usually transparent plastic, which is particularly stable and has good barrier
properties. PET sometimes has a high aroma density and good lipid resistance. It is mainly used for the
production of bottles for carbonated drinks, but also for salad trays, clear cups and film production.

PETG
Is a PET modified with glycol, which is characterised, above all, by a high viscosity and is used in injection moulding,
extrusion and blow moulding. Due to its great sealing properties, PETG is also used in multilayer films (PET-GAG).

PET-GAG structure
Refers to a three-layer film in which the outer layers consist of PET-G (glycol-modified PET) and the inner layer ofthe less expensive PET-A (amorphous PET). The material is good barrier properties and can also be sealed.
Recycled material can also be used for the inner layer.

PE-X
PE-X means 'cross-linked polyethylene' and represents a non-meltable and, therefore, thermally more resilient plastic.

PLA(Polylactic acid) is a plastic that is obtained from renewable raw materials (starch) and may also be biodegradable.
It is a clear plastic which is characterised by a good aroma barrier. PLA is mainly used for the production of films,
but also as a coating for paper cups and for the production of fibres.

Plastic granulate
Is the common delivery form of thermoplastics for the plastics processing industry. The plastic is heated/melted
in extruders, formed into strands via nozzles, cut into sections a few millimetres long and cooled. The resulting
granulate can be easily transported as bulk material.

Plastic laminate
Generally, a material or product consisting of two or more layers bonded together in a flat manner is referred toas a laminate. These layers can consist of the same or different materials. In the case of plastic laminate, different
plastics are bonded to each other over their entire surface, whereby e.g. multilayer films can be produced.

PO
Designates the plastic group of polyolefins (PO). The most important representatives include polyethylene (PE)and polypropylene (PP).

Polymer
Plastics consist of polymers. Polymers are chemical compounds consisting of chain or branched molecules(macromolecules), which in turn consist of a large number of identical or similar units, the so-called monomers.
They can have linear, branched or cross-linked structures. Polymers are classified – according to the degree ofcross-linking of the macromolecules – into thermoplastics, thermosets and elastomers.

POM
Polyoxymethylene (POM) is a colourless thermoplastic with high rigidity. The material is mainly processed into
moulded parts by injection moulding or also by extrusion blow moulding, and is used in the packaging sector,
e.g. for spray bottles.

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PP
Polypropylene is a plastic similar to chemical polyethylene, but is stronger and more temperature-resistant. It has
good barrier properties against lipids and moisture and is also one of the most widely used plastics for foodpackaging. Examples include bottle caps, trays and films.

Primary raw materials
Primary raw materials are natural resources that come from primary extraction. They are unprocessed – apart fromthe steps necessary to extract them.

PS
Polystyrene is a plastic with relatively high gas and water vapour permeability that is very dimensionally stable
and clear. It can be injection moulded, thermoformed or foamed depending on the intended use in processing.
Typical applications are yoghurt pots, plastic cutlery and CD cases.

PTN
Polytrimethylene napthalate (PTN) is a polymer that is supposed to increase the barrier properties of PET by mixing/
alloying with PET (by co-polymerisation).

PVC
Polyvinyl chloride is a plastic with a very wide range of applications, especially in the non-food sector. It is usually
very hard and brittle and becomes more malleable through the addition of plasticisers. PVC is used, for example, as
shrink film in transport or for the production of pipes. In contact with food, however, there is a risk that the added
plasticisers will pass into the food.

PVDC
Polyvinylidene chloride is an effective barrier and coating plastic against oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapour.
PVDC can be used in various applications, for example, as a barrier film, coating, bottle seal or shrink film.

Rigid packaging
Packaging that does not change its shape and form under load when used as intended. For example, glass bottles.
Definition in accordance with ÖNORM A 5405: 2009 06 15

Secondary fibres
See primary raw materials and secondary raw materials

Secondary raw materials
Secondary raw materials are obtained by reprocessing primary raw materials. They are, therefore, materials that areused a second or repeated time.

SiOx
Silicon oxide is used to coat plastics in order to improve their barrier properties. It is applied in extremely thin layers
by means of plasma coating. Colloquially, it is often referred to as 'glass coating'.

SleeveA sleeve is a tubular label made of shrinkable plastic which is pulled over the body of the packaging material fromabove and tightly joined by shrinking.

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Stickies
Stickies is a term for adhesive components that result from the raw material of recovered paper and canpotentially lead to contamination in the recycled paper. Definition based on Blechschmidt (2013) – Pocketbookof Paper Technology

Suction liner
Absorbent liners are absorbent liners used in food packaging to absorb escaping liquids from the food (e.g.
meat juice from fresh meat) and to prevent the food from lying in the escaping liquid for a longer period oftime (increasing product quality).

Sustainability
Sustainability or sustainable development means meeting the needs of the present in a way that does not limit
the opportunities of future generations. It is important to consider the three dimensions of sustainability – economic efficiency, social justice and ecological sustainability – on an equal footing.

Thermoset
Thermosets are polymers that can no longer be deformed after they have cured.

TPE
Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are plastics that behave like classic elastomers at room temperature, but become deformable when heat is applied. They, therefore, combine the elastic properties of rubber with the easy
processability of thermoplastics and can be repeatedly melted.

UV stabilisers
UV stabilisers are additives that are added to plastics to protect them against ageing caused by UV radiation(break-up of the polymer, chains) and are used, for example, to prevent cracking and colour loss.

Waste hierarchy
The five-stage waste hierarchy regulated in the Closed Substance Cycle Waste Management Act lays down afundamental order of priority for waste treatment and recovery measures: 1. Avoidance, 2. Preparation forreuse, 3. Recycling, 4. Other recovery, in particular, energy recovery and backfilling, 5. Removal

Wet processing
Wet processing has the task of dissolving the waste paper into the individual fibres through the action of waterand under mechanical stress (agitator, rotary drum).

'Widget' nitrogen balls
The term 'widget' is used to describe approx. 3 cm large, hollow plastic balls filled with nitrogen, which areused to create foam in beer can packaging. As soon as the can is opened, the nitrogen contained escapes
through a predetermined breaking point in the ball and foam is formed.

Wood-containing paper
Refers to the wood pulp content in paper. Wood-containing papers contain more than 5 % wood pulp in the
total fibre mass. Wood pulp, which is obtained mechanically, contains more lignin than pulp, which is obtained
chemically. This is why wood-containing papers also tend to yellow more.

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