PET packaging sustainability takes a decisive step towards the future with the launch of the new Circularity Test Protocol by the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP). This innovation represents a fundamental evolution from traditional recyclability testing, offering the industry an advanced tool to assess and optimise the circularity of PET bottles during the research and development phase.
A Quantum Leap for the Circular Economy
The new protocol marks a milestone in supporting PET value chain efforts towards sustainable development and resource efficiency. Unlike traditional tests that focus on single recycling phases, the PET Circularity Test simulates multiple recycling loops, offering a more realistic and comprehensive view of material behaviour over the long term.
Alignment with European Policies
The protocol's launch comes at a crucial moment for the packaging industry. EPBP's Design for Recyclability Test Protocol already aligns with the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), and the new Circularity Test represents the natural evolution towards even more ambitious environmental objectives.
A Strategic Transition
EPBP has planned a gradual transition that will initially offer both test protocols to applicants. During this transition period, companies will be able to choose between the recyclability and circularity protocols, though the organisation strongly encourages early adoption of the new standard.
The warning is clear: innovations successfully validated under the recyclability protocol may face challenges when reassessed against the more rigorous circularity criteria, making timely adoption of the new approach strategic.
A Legacy of 17 Years of Excellence
EPBP is not starting from scratch: for over 17 years, it has provided design-for-recycling (DfR) guidelines and evaluated innovative PET bottle packaging solutions. The organisation is proudly a liaison organisation with the Technical Committee on Packaging within the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN), actively contributing to standards development and best practice exchange.
Towards the Future of Circular Packaging
The evolution of the PET test protocol from recyclability to circularity will provide the value chain with clearer direction for the future, considering the reality of multi-loop recycling. This innovative approach responds to the growing needs of the PET industry as recycled PET (rPET) content increases under EU policies.
The new protocol represents much more than a simple technical update: it is a manifesto for a packaging industry that looks to the future with environmental responsibility, offering stakeholders the necessary tools to build a more sustainable tomorrow.
