APR and ReMA Announce Updated Bale Specifications for Recycled Plastics

According to a joint announcement, the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) have released revised specifications for several categories of post-consumer recycled plastics. The updated guidelines, which include changes to both APR’s Model Bale Specifications and ReMA’s ISRI Specifications, were jointly developed and approved by the boards of both organizations.

The revisions cover multiple plastic types, including:

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Natural Bottles;

HDPE Colored Bottles and Selected Containers; 

HDPE Injection Bulky Rigid Plastics;

Polyethylene (PE) Clear Film (Grade A and B);

PE Color Film;

PE Furniture Mix Film.

According to APR and ReMA, these updates are designed to better reflect the current state of recycling and commodity trading in North America. While the specifications serve as industry reference tools, they are not intended to replace contractual agreements or the accepted materials lists of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs).

Scott Saunders, General Manager of KW Plastics and board member of both organizations, noted that the revisions aim to “capture as much recyclable HDPE as possible from the stream, while ensuring quality and yield of post-consumer resin (PCR).” He emphasized that the new standards strike a balance between material acceptance and contamination control, clearly outlining what materials can be included in bales and which contaminants remain restricted.

Contamination continues to be a pressing concern for reclaimers, the associations noted. As such, the revised specifications define both acceptable trace-level contaminants and prohibited substances that could pose risks to equipment or processing efficiency.

“We are pleased to continue collaborative efforts with ReMA to ensure model bale specifications are aligned with current North American reclaimer practice and the latest developments in design for recyclability,” said Steve Alexander, President and CEO of APR. “Serving as an essential resource for buyers and sellers, they enable consistency and quality in recycled plastic markets.”

According to APR and ReMA, the updates arrive amid ongoing technological advancements in recycling operations, such as optical sorting, robotics, and AI-based monitoring systems. However, industry leaders stress that even with such tools, the quality and consistency of recycled outputs still depend heavily on well-defined input specifications and packaging designed with recyclability in mind.

“Technology and innovation are constantly transforming the recycled materials stream,” said ReMA President Robin Wiener. “ReMA’s ISRI Specifications are not only internationally recognized, but also essential for facilitating domestic trade for all recycled materials. We are proud to collaborate with APR on these important plastic specification updates.”

Source: Association of Plastic Recyclers