Plastic Sorting – RecyClass Sets a New Standard with Innovative Certification for Plastic Sorting Traceability 15-10-2025
Plastic Sorting
RecyClass Launches Groundbreaking Certification for Plastic Sorting Traceability
1. Overview of the Sorting Process Certification
RecyClass has announced the launch of its Sorting Process Certification, marking a major advancement in the traceability and quality assurance of plastic sorting operations. This new initiative creates a structured pathway for sorting facilities and waste traders that handle plastic waste destined for recycling, particularly when it comes to producing recycled materials suitable for food-contact applications.
The certification framework aligns with Regulation (EU) No. 2022/1616, which governs recycled plastics intended for food-contact uses. Beginning in early 2026, sorting centres and waste management companies will be able to apply for the certification, gaining access to an internationally recognized quality mark that validates their sorting and traceability systems.
2. Strengthening Traceability in Plastic Sorting
One of the key pillars of this certification is its focus on **traceability throughout the sorting process**. From incoming waste streams to the final sorted plastic fractions, the certification establishes standardized procedures that ensure transparency and consistency.
This initiative aims to improve the reliability of recycled plastic materials by making sure that every batch can be traced back to its source. Such traceability is essential for both environmental compliance and consumer confidence, especially as industries work to reduce reliance on virgin plastics and strengthen circular economy models.
“Traceability is no longer optional; it’s the foundation of responsible plastic sorting and recycling,” stated an industry representative involved in the certification’s pilot phase.
The certification helps bridge gaps between waste management, recyclers, and brand owners by providing a shared verification framework. For plastic sorting facilities, this means higher operational credibility and smoother integration into certified recycling chains.
3. Understanding Module Alpha
A distinctive element of the new certification is its Module Alpha. This module introduces advanced criteria for sorting facilities that manage plastic waste intended for potential food-contact recycling.
Module Alpha specifies enhanced controls, including the validation of material input origins, segregation of contamination-sensitive plastics, and documentation of purity standards. These measures collectively ensure that sorted plastics maintain the quality levels required for closed-loop food packaging applications.
By meeting Module Alpha requirements, certified facilities can demonstrate compliance with European food safety regulations and strengthen trust with downstream recyclers and brand partners who rely on high-quality recycled inputs.
4. Training and Global Rollout
To ensure global accessibility and consistent auditing practices, RecyClass will begin training third-party Certification Bodies in 2025. These independent bodies will be authorized to assess sorting facilities worldwide, promoting transparency and standardization across the plastic sorting value chain.
Sorting operators interested in improving traceability and demonstrating regulatory compliance will be invited to apply for certification once the first bodies are officially recognized. This approach reflects RecyClass’s commitment to international harmonization, reducing administrative complexity for companies operating across multiple regions.
5. Industry Impact and Future Outlook
The introduction of this certification comes at a time when plastic sorting plays a central role in achieving Europe’s recycling targets and circular economy goals. By reinforcing quality control and material traceability, the scheme directly supports producers seeking food-grade recycled plastics and enhances end-market confidence.
From an industry standpoint, certified sorting processes contribute to stronger brand reputations, reduced environmental risks, and improved resource efficiency. Additionally, regulators and policymakers can use certified data to inform recycling benchmarks and environmental reporting.
The certification is expected to influence global best practices, serving as a blueprint for other regions striving to improve sorting standards. By aligning environmental integrity with business viability, RecyClass’s approach could set a new benchmark for the entire recycling sector.
6. RecyClass Perspective
According to Paolo Glerean, Chairman of RecyClass:
“With this new addition to our certification schemes, RecyClass is reinforcing trust in the use of recycled materials across the entire plastics value chain. By integrating the Sorting Process, Recycling Process, and Recycled Plastics Traceability Certifications, we’ve created a comprehensive system ensuring full material traceability—from waste sorting to its incorporation into new products.”
This interconnected certification ecosystem underscores RecyClass’s mission to make circularity measurable, verifiable, and globally scalable.
7. Conclusion and Next Steps
The launch of the Sorting Process Certification marks a transformative milestone for the recycling industry. By embedding quality, transparency, and traceability into every step of plastic sorting, RecyClass provides a framework that not only satisfies regulatory requirements but also elevates the credibility of recycled plastics.
As the certification rolls out globally, sorting centres, recyclers, and brand owners have an opportunity to align under a unified, trusted standard. This move signals a new era of confidence in recycled materials and a concrete step toward achieving true circularity in plastics.
