Recyclable packaging is a prerequisite for a functional circular economy. To quickly and reliably determine the recyclability of new packaging, Henkel uses its specially developed software tool by EasyD4R.
Henkel has made this assessment tool available on its website ( www.henkel.com/easyd4r ) so that more companies and organizations can use it and more easily develop sustainable packaging solutions.
“ We want to promote open collaboration and accelerate the transition to a circular economy ,” says Dr. Thorsten Leopold, Head of International Packaging Development for Henkel’s Home Care products. “ We will only succeed if all participants along the value chain cooperate – especially with clear definitions and consistent assessments. By sharing our assessment tool, we want to contribute to packaging recycling .”
The software tool developed by EasyD4R is based on publicly recognized criteria catalogs, such as those of Plastics Recyclers Europea, and is used by Henkel throughout the company. The goal is to quickly and accurately assess the recyclability of packaging in the early stages of product development. This was confirmed by an independent test conducted by the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT. Scientists analyzed the assessment software and its results, comparing them with national and international standards.
“ With this tool, the recyclability of product packaging can be assessed ,” says Dr. Eng. Markus Hiebel, Head of Sustainability and Resources Manager at Fraunhofer UMSICHT. “ We are very pleased that companies like Henkel are taking their responsibility very seriously and contributing to the development of recyclable packaging .”
