New evaluation method for eco-design

“Made for Recycling” is the name of a new Interseroh test procedure for evaluating the recyclability of packaging.

As an incentive for packaging distributors, the new Packaging Act stipulates that the systems must give a discount on the disposal of recyclable packaging. A prerequisite for this, though, is a corresponding evaluation method, but there is no uniform national method on hand to date. However, Interseroh Dienstleistungs GmbH will be presenting its own new test method for packaging called “Made for Recycling” at the upcoming Fachpack 2019 (Hall 9, Stand 9-126), although the company is primarily concerned with optimizing the recyclability of the packaging.

Interseroh reports that together with the Environmental Institute bifa (Bavarian Institute of Applied Research), it has developed a scientifically based evaluation method which measures the recyclability of packaging. The methodology has been reviewed by experts from the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging (IVV). In the course of the evaluation, Interseroh analyses how packaging materials behave during collection, sorting and recycling. In this way, any weak points and potentials for improvement to achieve a sustainable packaging design can be identified.

In the packaging analysis, the packaging is evaluated according to eight criteria with scores of 0 – 20 points. On this basis, concrete recommendations for action to improve recyclability can be made. Interseroh customers receive a certificate as well. Packaging that scores 18 or more points via the standardized evaluation methodology is said to be “very recyclable” and is authorized to bear the official “Made for Recycling” seal.