Protocols Recyclechecks
The Recyclecheck allows companies to quickly and easily assess the recyclability of packaging. Certain questions within the Recyclechecks involve parameters that must be evaluated according to a specific protocol before a recyclability score - optimal, reasonable, limited, or non-recyclable - can be assigned. This page provides an overview of these protocols, as well as other resources to assist with the Recyclechecks.
Recycling check for rigid plastic packaging
Tool for determining the correct size of labels and sleeves
Do the material types of the main component and the label differ? If so, the size of the label relative to the main component is important for proper sorting. NTCP developed an online tool for this purpose, commissioned by Verpact.
Compression protocol (compressibility of a cylindrical disposal unit)
Do you want to know if your cylindrical or conical disposal unit is compressible? Step onto the (empty) disposal unit and then step off again. If the disposal unit does not stay flat or springs back into its round shape, there is a high probability that it will remain round during the collection and sorting process, making it difficult to sort correctly. Unsure? Use the Compression Protocol - part of NTCP’s SOP protocol (Simulation of Consumer Use, Collection, and Transport of Packaging Waste) - to simulate the collection and sorting stages.
Protocol for removing glued-on labels from rigid PET disposal units
The protocols for removing glued-on labels from PET bottles and PET trays are very similar in content.
For PET bottles, removability must be determined using the EPBP protocol: QT508 Labels & Adhesives testing procedure.
For PET trays, removability must be determined using the TCEP protocol (QT508 label adhesives testing procedure).
Protocol for removing adhered labels from rigid PE and PP disposal units
Assess the removability of labels from rigid PE and PP components using the Verpact protocol developed in collaboration with the NTCP, or the RecyClass "Protocol for labels & adhesives applied on HDPE / PP containers".
Read more here about the protocol for removing adhered labels from rigid PE and PP disposal units.
Recyclechecks for paper, cardboard, and beverage cartons
We will no longer publish new Recycle Checks for glass, metal, paper, cardboard, and beverage cartons starting in 2027. Read more at: verpact.nl/recyclecheck. Recycle Checks are valid only for the year to which they apply and may not reflect the state of technology in other years. Therefore, do not use an older Recycle Check to assess the recyclability of packaging in 2027. Recycle Checks from previous years remain available for the sake of transparency.
Different protocols apply to paper and cardboard versus beverage cartons. Cepi is the trade association for the paper industry. Cepi works closely with 4evergreen, a consortium of producers, designers, brand owners, researchers, and recyclers dedicated to optimizing fiber-based packaging. The goal is increased circularity and reduced environmental impact. You can find all current test and evaluation protocols for paper, cardboard, and beverage cartons from both Cepi and 4evergreen here.
Recyclability Evaluation Protocol
The Recyclability Evaluation Protocol combines standardized test methods and evaluation protocols. The European paper and packaging industry uses this to assess the efficiency with which fibers can be recovered from paper and cardboard packaging as usable raw material.
Use the Cepi Test Method Part I to test paper and cardboard packaging for conventional paper mills. Use Test Method Part III to test beverage cartons.
You interpret the results of both tests using the 4evergreen evaluation protocol. You can find certified test laboratories that operate according to the protocol here
Adhesive removal protocol
This protocol describes a standardized test to assess whether adhesives detach sufficiently during the pulping stage of paper recycling. Adhesives that do not detach properly can disrupt the recycling process and lead to a loss of quality in the recycled paper. Using this protocol allows you to select adhesive systems that do not hinder recycling and to develop paper and cardboard packaging that is easier to recycle.
Design for Recycling guidelines (4evergreen)
The Design for Recycling Guidelines offer practical design recommendations for fiber-based packaging, ensuring optimal collection, sorting, and recycling across various types of paper mills. The guidelines include an updated decision tree, clear definitions of recyclability, and specific recommendations for each packaging component; the aim is to align designs with high recycling standards from the outset and to enhance circularity within the paper value chain.
Other protocols
Protocols are set to change with the introduction of the PPWR. You can find the latest information on the PPWR here.
There are several ways to obtain a discount on your waste management fee. In addition to successfully completing the Recycle Check, examples include discounts for white or transparent packaging. Read the guidance document here for more information on the use of colors. You can find more information on fee differentiation here.