APR expands PCR Certification Program

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has announced the expansion of its PCR Certification Program. The expansion certifies the presence and verifies the percentage of PCR content in finished and semi-finished plastic products.

Previously focused on certifying PCR material produced by recyclers in pellet or flake form, the program now extends throughout the supply chain. It also enables manufacturers, brand owners, brokers, distributors, traders, and other organizations that buy, sell, or handle PCR to verify recycled content claims through independent third-party certification.

The new producer standard is based on ISO chain-of-custody and traceability requirements. This standard also provides a rigorous process to verify that companies are using recycled plastic in the amounts they claim. The APR Certified PCR Directory will list certified companies. This resource creates a trusted place for organizations seeking products and packaging made with certified PCR.

“Expanding APR PCR Certification to include producers and supply chain participants strengthens confidence in recycled content claims and supports the growing demand for transparency and accountability,” states Rita Phillip, program director, APR PCR Certification. “This program helps ensure that companies claiming to use recycled plastic can substantiate those claims with independent, third-party verification.”

Growing demand

As demand for verified recycled content grows, the industry increasingly recognizes APR PCR Certification as a trusted tool for compliance and accountability. Plus, the standard aligns with RecyClass’s Recycled Plastics Traceability Certification standard. This also supports harmonization of recycled-content verification across North America and Europe.

“Making new products from post-consumer recycled plastic – plastic packaging commonly recycled by households and businesses – is one of the most effective ways to reduce plastic waste and decrease reliance on virgin plastic,” adds Steve Alexander, APR president and CEO. “Because recycled content cannot be visually distinguished from virgin plastic, third-party certification is essential for verifying recycled content claims.”

Companies interested in learning more can go to the website here.