APCO, Australian Packaging Covenant Organization, has reached a decision to approve the submission for Ravenwood Packaging’s linerless technology to be classified as “Recyclable” in Australasia (ARL).

Ravenwood’s APAC managing director, Sam Aloschi, began this journey in 2021 to demonstrate the curbside recyclability of Ravenwood’s linerless labels. Based on the evidence provided, Ravenwood’s new “ecosystem” of materials are now approved for recycling in Australasia.

In collaboration with BioPRIA, Monash University (APCO’s standardised test method), an approval system was granted. Ravenwood presented both uncoated, coated, printed and raw samples for evaluation and assisted in the development of the testing criteria.

Ravenwood’s linerless ecosystem which falls under “The Circle of Linerless,” encompasses not only the base paper material but also the silicones, adhesives and varnishes. These components must be combined in precise ratios, with labels meticulously designed and approved by Ravenwood’s keyline designers. Once designed, printed and configured, Ravenwood’s linerless labels are then produced on the Com 500 coater.

Aloschi comments, “I always believed our linerless labels were 100% recyclable and should not be going to landfill. Our team at Ravenwood have worked hard to push the boundaries of technology to ensure our system is completely recyclable and sustainable for future generations. It’s a real credit to the Ravenwood team’s tenacity to come into the ground floor and work so hard to attain this momentous achievement from APCO.”

Testing has yielded promising results across Ravenwood’s latest ecosystem of products, achieving a pulp yield of over 93.7% ready for recycling post-screening. As part of their continuous efforts, Ravenwood is rolling out the Ravenwood ‘RRAP’ (Ravenwood Recyclability Approval Program). Participating printers can enrol to fully align with Ravenwood’s meticulous auditing chain of custody process.

Ravenwood’s “Circle of Linerless” offers the complete linerless solution, fully encompassing its materials and machinery including the Com 500 linerless coater and Nobac linerless applicators. This joined up approach also includes label keyline design, disaster recovery and performance guarantee as well as global supply via Ravenwood’s machinery distributors, and printer network.