Nordic Swan Ecolabel increases the possibility of recycling plastic packaging
Nordic Ecolabelling's requirements for detergents and stain removers promote the possibility of recycling plastic packaging and can thus contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
The Nordic Swan Ecolabel requires rigid plastic packaging to contain at least 50% recycled material. And in order to increase recyclability, there are requirements for both information about correct sorting and limiting contaminants in the plastic.
A study by Viegand Maagøe shows that the Nordic Ecolabel's packaging requirements for detergents and stain removers are fully in line with the design guidelines for improved recycling.
Design for recycling can help ensure that packaging is sorted correctly and that the quality is high enough for the material to be used in new products without too much downgrading.
Great potential to recycle more plastic
Packaging design alone cannot ensure high circularity of packaging. Collection systems and sorting are also key aspects that affect the availability of recycled plastics. Therefore, the study cannot draw conclusions about direct effects.
However, the study shows that there is great potential for recycling more plastic. Of the plastic waste collected in Sweden today, only 34% of it can be recycled. And that only 18% of the collected plastic waste is recycled.
The Nordic Swan Ecolabel imposes a wide range of requirements on packaging. Among other things, it should contain recycled materials and have a circular design. This means that there are requirements for the type of plastic, dyes and metals – and for labels, among other things.