Avery Dennison receives RecyClass endorsement

RecyClass guidelines state that for packaging to be fully recyclable, the polyethylene (PE), machine direction oriented (MDO) or polypropylene (PP) label must be removable through the cold wash process, which uses water heated to 40 degrees Celsius. 

This is the most common method of recycling high-density polyethylene (HDPE) packaging in Europe. Still, labels that can be removed at this temperature can also come off during regular use, like when a shampoo bottle is taken in the shower.

Avery Dennison's PE White, MDO White and PP Clear labels, which feature a permanent acrylic adhesive and remain in place during a cold wash, were approved by RecyClass after extensive independent testing. Approval is granted based on meeting stringent specifications for label size, ink coverage and adhesive, among other factors.

‘Our film portfolio consists of clear and white polyethylene (PE), machine direction oriented (MDO) and polypropylene (PP) films made with pressure-sensitive emulsion acrylic adhesives,’ commented Rob Groen in 't Wout, marketing director for paper and films at Avery Dennison. ‘Having these aligned with RecyClass guidelines will make it easier for brands and label producers to boost recycling rates and ensure HDPE packaging gets a second life. Currently, we are conducting further independent tests with the aim of having our complete portfolio approved.’