ReMA and APR in the United States (US) Update Recycled Plastics Specifications

According to Zhuan Su Shijie on August 5, the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ReMA) and the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) have updated specifications related to recycled plastics, highlighting the importance placed on the recycled plastics market. Both organizations are based in Washington, and this update aims to reflect current market trading practices for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and film materials.

Background and Process of Specification Update

ReMA and APR recently released updates to ReMA's ISRI specifications and the APR model bale specifications. The two organizations stated that these specifications were developed through a "collaborative development process" and have been approved by both boards.

Updated Recycled Plastic Specifications Details

The updated specifications for recycled plastics cover various types, as follows:

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) natural bottle;
Colored HDPE bottles and specific containers.
HDPE injection molding of large rigid plastic.
Polyethylene (PE) transparent film (Grade A);
PE transparent film (Grade B)
PE colored film
PE furniture composite film.
The role and update mechanism of specifications.

These specifications serve as a reference tool, detailing the materials and contaminants acceptable to both buyers and sellers of recycled plastic goods. They aim to facilitate communication between both parties and are not intended to replace individual agreements or the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) receiving lists. The two organizations will periodically release updates as needed, based on changes in the post-consumer products and packaging mix, the design and innovation of recyclable packaging, recycling technology, and the end markets for recycled resins. Notably, the latest update of ReMA's ISRI specifications also includes content related to paper cups.

Industry insiders' views on specification updates

Scott Saunders, General Manager of KW Plastics (located in Troy, Alabama), and a member of the APR and ReMA boards, stated: "We aim to reclaim as much recyclable HDPE from the recycling stream as possible while ensuring the quality and yield of our post-consumer resin (PCR) materials. The updated HDPE model specifications balance these two aspects by clarifying the bottles and containers that are typically acceptable in North American bales today, and also include agreed revisions to the list of bale contaminants."

Response to Pollutant Issues Regarding Specifications

ReMA and APR pointed out that while contaminants remain a key issue for recyclers, model specifications clearly list contaminants that can be tolerated at low levels, as well as those that are prohibited due to difficulties in processing or hazardous handling by recyclers.

Steve Alexander, President and CEO of APR, stated, "We are pleased to continue working with ReMA to ensure that model bale specifications align with the current practices of North American recyclers and the latest developments in recyclability design. These specifications are an important resource for buyers and sellers, helping to ensure consistency and quality in the recycled plastics market."

Technology Support and Specification Improvement Requirements

With the integration of advanced technologies such as optical sorting, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI), the recycling industry now has powerful tools to classify and monitor collected plastics. However, two organizations also pointed out that in order to continuously improve the quality and yield of recycled materials and expand end markets, it is necessary to update bale specifications and ensure that packaging is designed for recyclability.

Continuous cooperation ensures market development.

ReMA and APR stated that they will continue to collaborate to support the consistency and integrity of the recycled plastic market. Robin Wiener, president of ReMA, said, "Technology and innovation are constantly changing the flow of recycled materials. ReMA's ISRI specifications are not only internationally recognized but also crucial for promoting the trade of all recycled materials domestically. We are honored to work with APR to complete these important updates to the plastic specifications."