APR and Chinese institutes join hands to align recyclability design guidelines

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) will publish the APR Design Guide for Plastics Recyclability in both Mandarin and Spanish, reinforcing ongoing commitment toward global alignment of design for recycling guidelines for plastic packaging.

The Mandarin translation was developed with the China National Resource Recycling Association (CRRA) and the Research Institute for Environmental Innovation (Suzhou), Tsinghua (RIET). The Spanish translation was completed through a partnership between APR and ECOCE.

Although collection systems in North America, Mexico, and China may differ, design for recyclability remains similar. The Spanish and Mandarin translations of the APR Design Guide include modifications to account for differences in recycling infrastructure in Mexico and China. 

Adsale Plastics Network understands that CRRA, RIET and APR will also establish local testing laboratories in China that meet both U.S. and Chinese certification requirements, and facilitating mutual recognition of recycled plastic traceability to address the global plastic pollution challenge.

“The release of the APR Design Guide in Mandarin will help us better understand the North American guidelines for plastic recyclability design. We are building a Chinese standard system for easy recycling and regeneration as well as gradually establishing a full-chain traceability management mechanism covering design, recycling, regeneration, and certification,” said CPRA of CRRA Secretary General Yonggang Wang.

“Key data will be incorporated into the full-chain on-chain certification system to achieve credible data management from the recycling source to the circulation terminal. We will work with all parties to promote the unification and mutual recognition of global plastic recyclability design guidelines and accelerate the efficient circulation of renewable resources in the transnational industrial chain,” explained Wang.

“Working alongside APR, ECOCE, and CRRA allows us to exchange technical expertise, build alignment on recyclability standards, and support the development of solutions that enhance recycling systems and contribute to a more sustainable circular economy,” added RIET Vice President Xin Yao.

“APR is pleased to partner with ECOCE, CRRA, and RIET as we work to align plastic design for recyclability across the globe,” said Steve Alexander, APR President and CEO. “Our shared commitment to building a circular economy and improving plastic recycling is what drives these partnerships.”