UPM Raflatac earns APR certification for recyclable labels on HDPE packaging

FINLAND – UPM Raflatac, a global leader in sustainable self-adhesive paper and film products, has achieved a significant milestone by earning the APR (Association of Plastic Recyclers) Design for Recyclability Recognition.

This certification applies to its clear and white polypropylene (PP) labels using hotmelt, UPM Raflatac SmartCircle wash-off adhesive, and general-purpose acrylic adhesives. 

This recognition confirms that these labels meet or exceed the recycling requirements for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles within the North American recycling system. 

Notably, this is the first time a pressure-sensitive label (PSL) material has been certified by the APR for natural HDPE packaging. 

 Evaluation process and benefits for recycling 

To secure this certification, UPM Raflatac submitted its clear and white PP label solutions for rigorous APR testing. These labels, designed for HDPE packaging, work seamlessly with approved wash-off inks. 

After evaluation, the APR confirmed that these labels effectively detach from HDPE packaging during recycling, ensuring that they do not interfere with the process of converting packaging into new containers or products. 

Kyle Strenski, UPM Raflatac Americas’ Business Director for HPC, Food, and Beverage, emphasized the importance of this recognition, stating, “Being the first in our industry to receive APR’s critical guidance recognition for natural HDPE energizes us. We are committed to leading the sustainability charge by advancing packaging solutions for brands.” 

This marks the seventh time UPM Raflatac has been awarded APR’s Critical Guidance recognition, reinforcing the company’s role as a sustainability leader in the packaging industry. 

 EcoVadis platinum rating for sustainability 

In addition to the APR recognition, UPM Raflatac was awarded a platinum rating by EcoVadis, a leading provider of sustainability ratings. 

EcoVadis assesses companies in four categories: Environment, Labor and Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. 

UPM Raflatac’s score of 81/100 places it among the top one percent of the 130,000 global companies assessed, with particularly strong performance in labor and human rights. 

Sami Lundgren, UPM’s Vice President of Responsibility, highlighted the company’s achievements, noting, “Our commitments in areas such as health and safety, gender pay equity, and diversity and inclusion show our dedication to continuous improvement. UPM’s top rating also recognizes our efforts to promote sustainability across the value chain.” 

UPM Raflatac’s achievements reflect its ongoing commitment to advancing sustainability in both packaging solutions and broader corporate responsibility initiatives. 

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