Analysis of standards and certification protocols for verifying recycled content in plastic products

Abstract

This study focused on analyzing and evaluating existing and in development regulations, in anticipation for the launch of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulation in Alberta and looks at the lack of harmonization around plastic recycling in Canada, and the way that reciChain can support with compliance to those regulations. It also included the evaluation of the EPR considerations in different provinces in Canada, the study cases that could be relevant for the development of reciChain and how OECD countries are managing their plastic waste. These aspects were essential to answer the research question: how does reciChain fit within existing and in development North American and international standards and certification protocols for verifying recycled content in plastic products, and how it can support with the implementation of effective certification programs? It is important to consider that only 6% of plastics are recycled in Canada, and 85% of the plastic waste generated annually ends up in landfills.