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★Mark us as a preferred sourceThe APR digital platform was officially announced on August 6, 2026, aiming to make the assessment of plastic packaging recyclability faster, more reliable, and highly efficient. Developed by The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) in partnership with the Germany-based software company Recyda, this new digital tool helps companies prepare for tightening packaging regulations and significantly reduces the risks associated with self-assessment.
The Partnership between APR and Recyda
The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has introduced a new solution called the APR Design® Assessment Tool, powered by Recyda. Recyda is a software company based in Germany dedicated to advancing packaging sustainability. The company’s software platform is specifically designed to help businesses master the complexities of international packaging regulations, ranging from Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) management to recyclability assessments. Tailored for companies with large and diverse packaging portfolios, the Recyda system streamlines compliance, helps manage EPR fees, and provides deep portfolio analysis across numerous countries.
How does the APR digital platform help companies?
The core of the APR digital platform is built upon the APR Design® Guide for Plastics Recyclability, which has been the gold standard for designing plastic packaging compatible with the North American recycling system for over three decades. By combining APR’s deep technical expertise with advanced digital capabilities provided by Recyda, the tool successfully automates the design evaluation of complete plastic packages.
The assessment tool guides users through a series of steps to thoroughly understand the packaging makeup. Along the way, it:
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Identifies any missing information.
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Highlights potential design incompatibilities.
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Recommends opportunities to improve recyclability.
Ultimately, the tool assigns an APR Design® classification to the product, which falls into one of four categories:
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Preferred Design for Recycling.
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Tolerated but Needs Improvement.
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Non-Recyclable.
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Requires Testing.
Preparing for Regulations: California SB 343 and SB 54
The APR Design® Guide serves as the primary benchmark for recyclable plastic packaging design in several US state laws, notably California’s SB 54 and SB 343, and acts as the basis for applicable EPR fees across Canada. The new software solution can specifically determine if a plastic package meets the requirements of California’s Labeling Law, SB 343, which mandates strict compliance with the APR Design® Guide.
Steve Alexander, President & CEO of APR, stated: “For over 30 years, the APR Design® Guide has helped shape recyclable packaging across North America. By automating the assessment process based on this trusted guidance, we’re making it easier for companies to design packaging that meets the needs of today’s recycling system while preparing for tomorrow’s regulatory requirements.”.
Availability and Subscription Levels
APR offers three distinct subscription levels for the tool, making it highly accessible for companies of any size. Early access is currently available exclusively to APR members, with a full public launch expected in late September. For more information, or to register for the upcoming webinar series, interested parties can visit the APR website or contact Kara Pochiro.
FAQ
What is the APR digital platform?
The APR digital platform, also known as the APR Design® Assessment Tool, is a software solution developed by APR and Recyda to quickly and accurately assess the recyclability of plastic packaging.
What regulations does the tool help companies comply with?
The tool checks whether packaging complies with the APR Design® Guide, which is the foundation for California laws like SB 343 and SB 54, as well as Canadian EPR fees.
Who can currently access the platform?
Early access is currently available to APR members, with a public launch expected in late September offering three different subscription levels.
References:
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Original source: APR Launches APR Design® Assessment Tool Powered by Recyda
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State site (California SB 343 / CalRecycle): SB 343 Material Characterization Study Final Findings – CalRecycle
