Avery Dennison Unveils First RFID Label Certified for Compatibility with PET Recycling

According to a press release from Avery Dennison, the company has achieved an industry milestone with the introduction of the first radio-frequency identification (RFID) label to receive the APR Design® for Recyclability (DfR) recognition from the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR). This certification confirms the label’s compatibility with North America's PET recycling infrastructure.

As reported on Avery Dennison’s official website, this advancement was made possible by the integration of the company’s proprietary CleanFlake™ adhesive technology with its RFID and materials science expertise. The newly developed RFID label cleanly detaches from PET containers during mechanical recycling, helping reduce contamination in the plastic stream.

The innovation is expected to help consumer brands, particularly those using PET in items such as beverage bottles, food containers, and personal care packaging, meet increasingly ambitious sustainability and recyclability commitments. Industry data indicates that 96% of the top 50 global brands have already pledged to improve recyclability and reduce waste.

PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is one of the most widely used plastics in consumer packaging. Ensuring that labels and adhesives do not interfere with the recycling process is critical for maximizing the recovery of high-quality recyclable material. Avery Dennison’s RFID label supports this effort by allowing for precise product identification and sorting, thereby improving material recovery rates and helping to extend the life cycle of PET products.

Pascale Wautelet, Vice President of Global R&D and Sustainability at Avery Dennison Materials Group, commented: “RFID technology is essential for the effective and sustainable management of modern supply chains, supporting brands with greater inventory visibility, product traceability and loss prevention. APR’s recognition marks a pivotal step forward in advancing circular packaging and supporting the global transition to sustainable material use. ”

APR President and CEO Steve Alexander emphasized the broader impact of such technologies, stating: “Ensuring packaging is compatible with the recycling infrastructure is critical. By increasing the recyclability of packaging, brands can not only reduce waste and meet their sustainability targets but also contribute to a more circular economy.”

Avery Dennison, recognized as a global leader in RFID technology, announced plans to make the certified RFID label commercially available later this year. The company is also collaborating with international certification bodies to extend PET recyclability recognition to global markets.

Source: Avery Dennison