On 29th August 2024, the Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR) updated the minimum standard for recyclable packaging, incorporating new categories of materials. In addition to the traditional polyethylene (PE) and polyamide (PA) barrier films, films containing ethylene-vinyl-alcohol copolymer (EVOH) are now recognised as recyclable. This extension primarily affects packaging for sausage, cheese, and meat.
Adhesive-laminated PE/PA films are also now officially classified as recyclable. This reclassification is based on joint studies by Basf and the cyclos-HTP Institute, which demonstrated the recyclability of PE/PA/EVOH barrier films and PE/PA laminated structures when appropriate adhesion and compatibility additives are used.
Simone Schillo, Senior Manager Market Development Polyamides & Precursors Europe, commented:
Thanks to the reclassification, a significant proportion of polyamide containing multilayer structures that are available on the market now fulfill the minimum requirements for recyclability.
Since 2022, polyamide 6 (PA6) and co-polyamide 6/6.6 (PA6/6.6) in co-extruded PE/PA films have already been recognised as recyclable, provided they participate in the system according to Article 21 (3) of the VerpackG.
Polyamides, due to their excellent barrier and mechanical properties, play a crucial role in the production of sustainable packaging, enabling the use of thinner films and reducing material consumption and waste.
