In today’s world, where sustainability is a paramount concern, the responsible management of plastic waste has become a global imperative. As a provider of more sustainable labeling solutions, UPM Raflatac is committed to driving innovation and offering thought leadership in the realm of plastics recycling. In this article, we will explore UPM Raflatac’s SmartCircle Wash-off labels for PET packages, shed light on recycling compatibility, and highlight the importance of more sustainable plastic packaging.

Understanding the Challenge
Plastic recycling has long been plagued by confusion and inefficiencies, leading to suboptimal recycling rates. One of the culprits is the lack of plastic packaging designed for recycling. Label choice is critical when designing recycling compatible plastic packaging: PET is a widely used material due to its durability, transparency, versatility, and even closed loop recycling opportunities, but utilizing the wrong label materials can impose challenges to the recycling process and yield.

To address this challenge, UPM Raflatac has developed a new solution called SmartCircle Wash-off for PET packages. This innovative label technology enables the complete removal of labels from PET containers during the recycling process. By utilizing water-based wash-off adhesives, SmartCircle Wash-off labels can be effortlessly separated from PET plastics without leaving any residue, ensuring the highest quality of recycled PET to be used again, ideally in closed loop packaging solutions.

Recycling Compatibility
A crucial aspect of UPM Raflatac’s Wash-off solution is its excellent recycling compatibility. These wash-off labels meet the stringent requirements of existing PET recycling streams, allowing end users to contribute to a more circular economy without compromising the quality of recycled PET materials.

These solutions are recognized by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) as meeting or exceeding its Critical Guidance testing requirements. The material yields recycled PET flakes that exceed current color and haze guidelines (in third party lab testing).

By utilizing PET wash off label solutions, UPM Raflatac can facilitate higher quality and amount of recyclate material that can be used again in high value products.

Benefits of Sustainable Plastic Packaging
Embracing more sustainable plastic packaging is an essential step toward reducing the environmental impact and burden on natural resources. By leveraging UPM Raflatac’s SmartCircle Wash-off labels for PET packages, brand owners can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and align with consumer expectations.
More sustainable plastic packaging solutions enable the reduction of carbon footprint, promote resource efficiency, and can foster a more environmentally conscious brand image. Through UPM Raflatac’s Wash-off solution, brand owners can play an active role in closing the loop on plastic waste and advancing a more sustainable future.

Driving the Change
UPM Raflatac’s SmartCircle Wash-off solution is a testament to the company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. By continuously pushing the boundaries of labeling technology, UPM Raflatac aims to empower end users to make informed choices regarding plastic packaging. Through collaboration and education, the company can collectively navigate the complex landscape of plastics recycling and create a positive impact on the environment.

As an APR Demand Champion since 2018, UPM Raflatac is committed to promoting circular packaging solutions and incorporating post-consumer recycled content into our materials, as well as ensuring the highest level of recyclability of our products.

Moreover, by removing barriers to recycling compatibility, UPM Raflatac is driving the transition towards a circular economy, where plastics can be reused, recycled, and repurposed in a continuous loop. Together, we can reduce confusion, increase recycling rates, and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.