Henkel Packaging RecycLab has officially launched its operations in Shanghai, China, contributing to innovation in packaging recycling in Chinese and Asia-Pacific markets. This specialized facility is an integrated center that combines development, testing, evaluation, and industry-academia-research collaboration.

Henkel launched the Packaging RecycLab in Shanghai, China.

Built on the internationally recognized CEPI/4Evergreen testing framework, it simulates industrial recycling processes to provide critical data for packaging design. This supports customers in optimizing solutions and helps the industry establish a ‘design-for-recycling’ closed-loop system.

The Packaging RecycLab is dedicated to evaluating how adhesive solutions can drive innovation in packaging recycling and accelerate the transition to a circular economy. Through localized testing and process optimization, the facility will enhance Henkel's capabilities in serving the Chinese and broader Asia-Pacific markets.

In-depth visit by China Packaging Federation

A delegation led by Hua Li, Chairperson of the China Packaging Federation, visited the lab and discussed future cooperation.

“The Packaging RecycLab combines an international perspective with local market needs. It will serve as valuable infrastructure for the entire industry,” commented Li.

Hua Li, Chairperson of the China Packaging Federation, and Dr. Alejandro Schoenhoff, Head of Packaging APAC at Henkel Adhesive Technologies, during the torch ceremony.

A highlight of this visit was the torch relay ceremony for the 2025 ‘Green Packaging Recycling China Tour’. Since its inception by CPF in 2023, when the torch was first passed to Henkel during a past China International Import Expo, a historic moment that inspired hundreds of value-chain enterprises towards packaging upgrades, the campaign continues its mission. 

Building a collaborative, inclusive and sustainable packaging ecosystem

The Packaging RecycLab provides the Chinese packaging industry with a world-class recycling verification platform. Henkel will continue increasing innovation investments in China and expand the cooperative ecosystem. 

Achieving sustainable packaging requires coordinated efforts across the value chain, and Henkel looks forward to collaborating with more partners to advance the green transformation of China's packaging industry.