APR Expands Recognition Program to Include More Sustainable Packaging Options

According to an official announcement, the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has updated its APR Design® for Recyclability Recognition Program, adding new packaging components eligible for Preferred Design Recognition (PDR) and launching a new digital tool aimed at streamlining the application process.

The program provides third-party verification that a package or its components meet the APR Design® Guide’s highest recyclability standards for the North American recycling system, supporting manufacturers in achieving clients’ sustainable packaging goals. The latest expansion includes:

Natural and white mono-material polyethylene (PE) film substrates;

Preferred EVOH barrier materials for polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) packaging;

Attachments for PET, HDPE, and PP packaging.

APR noted that recognition can be obtained via multiple routes, including the PDR pathway. To assist applicants, the organization has rolled out the APR Design® Recognition Path Finder Tool, which helps determine eligibility, select the appropriate recognition path, and identify required testing.

Ruben Nance, APR Program Director for PDR, said the growing program now offers more tools and resources to manufacturers and converters, enabling them to better assess recyclability. “The addition of new product categories, as well as the development of resources like the APR Design® Recognition Path Finder which streamline the submission process, equip manufacturers and converters with reliable tools to evaluate the recyclability of their packaging and components,” Nance noted.

Packaging recognized under the program is listed in the APR Library of Recognized Solutions, a resource designed to help brand owners and retailers quickly identify recyclable packaging options, reduce the risk of misleading recycling claims, and comply with legislation.

Steve Alexander, President and CEO of APR, highlighted the program’s importance in the context of evolving U.S. packaging regulations. “The APR Design® Recognition Program provides a vital resource as companies are preparing for extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies in multiple states, compliance with California’s SB343 Truth in Labeling law, as well as other brand and industry commitments. Over 200 companies have now received APR Design® Recognition for more than 450 products. The growth of the program and breadth of commitments made to develop circular packaging solutions is extremely encouraging.”

Industry analysts note that the APR Design® Recognition Program’s expansion reflects a broader shift toward packaging designs that are not only recyclable in theory but proven compatible with real-world recycling systems. With U.S. states advancing extended producer responsibility laws and stricter labeling rules, the demand for certified, high-performance recyclable packaging is expected to accelerate. Observers anticipate that APR’s updated program and tools will play a growing role in helping brands meet regulatory deadlines, reduce compliance risks, and align with consumer expectations for transparent sustainability practices.

Source: APR