KNOW YOUR AUTHORITIES – EUROPE EDITION
KNOW YOUR AUTHORITIES – EUROPE EDITION
In Europe, several prominent schemes cater to the recycling and plastics sectors, each with its unique focus and standards. Here’s a look at some key certifications.
RecyClass
RecyClass, a cross-industry initiative, advances plastic packaging recyclability and promotes traceability of plastic waste and recycled content. It offers three main certifications: Recyclability Certification, Recycling Process Certification, and Recycled Plastic Traceability Certification. These certifications ensure the origin of plastic waste is traceable and the recycled content in plastic products is verified. RecyClass integrates scientific testing methods and recycling guidelines to foster a circular plastic future.
QA-CER
QA-CER, managed by the Belgian Quality Association (BQA), is a certification scheme that verifies recycled content and quality in products. It ensures that the recycling process and the use of recycled materials adhere to strict quality standards. BQA, an ISO 17021 certified body, offers certifications for ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and other systems, primarily serving the plastics and textile industries.
AENOR
AENOR, founded in 1986, is a private organization that enhances the quality and competitiveness of companies through certification. It operates in multiple countries, including Spain, Brazil, Chile, and Italy, issuing certifications in over 60 countries. AENOR’s rigorous standards have made its certificates highly respected globally, contributing significantly to various sectors by promoting confidence and compliance.
CERTILOOP
CERTILOOP specializes in certifying claims regarding the recyclability and recycled content of products within the plastics and recycling sectors. It conducts Recycling Process Traceability Certificates for facilities and manages the Operation Clean Sweep Turkey Certification program to address microplastic loss. Key certificates include the Recycled Content Certificate (EN 15343) and the Recyclability Certificate.
Plastica Seconda Vita (PSV)
Plastica Seconda Vita, established by the Institute for the Promotion of Recycled Plastics (IPPR) in 2004, focuses on the Italian plastics value chain. It involves key stakeholders like UNIONPLAST and PlasticsEurope Italia, aiming to promote the use of recycled materials and ensure the sustainability of plastic products. The scheme covers various stages from production to recycling, supporting a circular economy.
TZÚ-PQA
TZÚ-PQA, based in Brno, Czech Republic, offers certification for recycled content and quality assurance related to the recycling process. Accredited to ISO 17021, it provides certifications for ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and other management systems. TZÚ-PQA focuses on maintaining high-quality standards in recycled materials to support sustainability.
CERTIF
CERTIF, accredited by IPAC according to EN ISO/IEC 17021 and EN ISO/IEC 17065, certifies plastic piping systems and grants End-of-Waste status for recovered plastics. Based in Portugal, CERTIF has been a leader in certification services, ensuring compliance and promoting sustainable practices in the plastics industry.
RAL Gütezeichen
The RAL Quality Assurance Association promotes the ecological development of PET beverage bottles through the RAL quality mark. Established in 2014, it supports members in increasing the use of recycled PET, promoting resource efficiency, and protecting the environment. It covers PET recyclers, preform manufacturers, and beverage producers, ensuring sustainability across the supply chain.
DIN CERTCO
DIN CERTCO, part of TÜV Rheinland Group, provides globally recognized certifications for recycled materials, ensuring transparency and traceability. Accredited by DAkkS, it offers the DIN-Geprüft and flustix Recycled services based on ISO 14021 and EN 15343 standards. DIN CERTCO’s certifications support a circular economy by verifying the use of recycled materials in various industries.
LNE
LNE, established in France, offers comprehensive certification services for products, management systems, and services. Partnering with the Industrial Technical Center for Plastics and Composites (IPC), LNE provides the “Incorporation of Recycled Plastic Materials” certification, which certifies the declared tonnage of recycled materials used in production. LNE supports technological sovereignty and citizen safety through its rigorous certification processes.
