Enhancing Packaging Sustainability with the OPRL Recyclability Assessment Tool
In today’s sustainability-conscious world, businesses face growing pressure to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging.
At OPRL we’re committed to helping our members meet these challenges through innovative tools and resources.
One of our latest initiatives is our Recyclability Assessment Tool (RAT), which has been designed to support our members in evaluating and improving the recyclability of their packaging.
What Is the Recyclability Assessment Tool?
The Recyclability Assessment Tool (RAT) is a powerful and valuable addition to our existing resources.
While our Labelling Tool allows our members to input information about their packaging – such as type, material composition, laminations or coatings, which help determine the appropriate OPRL label to use – the OPRL RAT takes it a step further.
The RAT provides a deeper analysis of the packaging’s recyclability and offers actionable advice on how to enhance it.
This is not only important for reducing environmental impact but also for saving costs.
The recyclability of packaging affects modulated fees under the Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) regulations, meaning that using more recyclable packaging can lead to lower fees.
How Does It Work?
The Recyclability Assessment Tool is easy to use and provides flexibility for assessing the recyclability of packaging at any stage – whether you are working with existing packaging or during the design phase. Here is a breakdown of the process:
- Input Packaging Details
To begin the assessment, you’ll need to provide some essential details about your packaging. This includes the size, weight, and materials used for each component, such as individual layers, laminations, coatings, and other factors that may influence recyclability. - Receive a Recyclability Outcome
After entering all the required information, the tool generates an assessment. This assessment provides not only an outcome regarding the recyclability of your packaging but also explanations and reasoning behind the result. This will help you understand the factors that influence recyclability. - Actionable Recommendations
In addition to the assessment, the tool offers specific, actionable recommendations to enhance the recyclability of your packaging. These insights can be utilized to redesign or refine the packaging for improved environmental performance. - Save and Download Assessments
One of the tool’s key features is that all your assessments are saved and can be downloaded. This allows you to keep a record for future reference, make comparisons over time, and easily share the results with your team or supply chain partners.
Benefits for OPRL Members
The Recyclability Assessment Tool is more than just a sustainability measure; it’s a strategic advantage. By using this tool, members can:
- Enhance Packaging Recyclability: Receive expert advice on how to improve the recyclability of packaging, contributing to environmental sustainability.
- Cost savings through pEPR: Since the recyclability of packaging affects modulated fees under Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR), improving recyclability can result in significant savings for your business.
- Boost Brand Reputation: As consumer demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, improving your packaging’s recyclability positions your brand as an environmentally responsible choice, appealing to the eco-conscious.
- Streamline Packaging Design: Incorporate recyclability insights during the design phase to ensure your packaging is optimized from the very beginning.
The OPRL Recyclability Assessment Tool is an essential resource for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact while reducing costs.
Whether you’re evaluating existing packaging or designing new packaging from scratch, the RAT provides invaluable support for making informed decisions about recyclability.
By leveraging this tool, OPRL members can take proactive steps toward a more sustainable future – benefiting both the planet and their financial performance.
Ready to get started?
If you’re already a member of OPRL, you can get started using the Recyclability Assessment Tool now, and see how easy it is to make a difference.
With just a few details about your packaging, you can receive expert advice and actionable insights to improve recyclability, enhance sustainability, and strengthen your business.
Not yet a member?
To find out more about how we can help you and your business with your recycling labelling needs and the benefits of becoming a member of OPRL, click here.