Loading...
Optimum Group™

Recyclability starts with how things work together

Packaging, labels and adhesives belong together.

Recyclability depends on how everything works together

The 2026 Minimum Standard shows what really matters.

How recyclable is a package in practice? What matters is not simply whether individual materials are theoretically recyclable. The 2026 Minimum Standard assesses what proportion of a package is actually available as recyclable material under real-world sorting and recycling conditions. The result is expressed as a specific percentage.

For companies, this makes one thing particularly clear: the entire package matters. Material, construction, label and adhesive need to work together.

One adhesive. Two outcomes.

0% or 94.3% recyclability.

An example from the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR) shows just how significant the impact of individual components can be.

For a PET bottle with PP labels, the use of a non-wash-off label adhesive results in the package being rated at 0% recyclability. In this case, the adhesive is considered incompatible with the recycling process – despite the high recyclable material content of the PET main body.

When a suitable wash-off label adhesive is used instead, the same package achieves 94.3% recyclability in the example.

This shows that even a relatively small component can have a decisive impact on the recyclability of the entire package.

Plan together from the start

When developing or redesigning packaging, labelling should be considered right from the beginning.

Recyclability does not depend solely on the main packaging material. Material combinations, labels and adhesives can also affect how effectively a package can be sorted, separated and recycled.

 

That is why it is worth looking at the complete application:

  • Which packaging material is being used?
  • Which label material is suitable for it?
  • Which adhesive is required?
  • How do the different components behave during sorting and recycling?
  • Are there opportunities to improve the packaging design for recycling?

 

Together with you, we assess the requirements of the product, packaging and labelling and support you in selecting a suitable solution.

Assessing Today What Matters Tomorrow

With the PPWR, the recyclability of packaging is becoming increasingly important. Starting in 2030, European requirements for the recyclability of packaging will take effect.

The German Minimum Standard already offers companies an opportunity to assess packaging and identify opportunities for optimization.

It is important to note that the 2026 Minimum Standard is not the same as the future European assessment method under the PPWR. The corresponding European methodology is still being developed.

That is precisely why it is wise to assess existing packaging solutions early on and plan any necessary adjustments in a timely manner.

Think packaging and labels together

Would you like to know which labeling and adhesive solution is right for your packaging and application?

Our experts will help you consider the various components as a whole and select suitable solutions based on Design for Recycling principles.

Review your solution with us