To help rigid container designers consider recycling factors, the Association of Postconsumer Plastic Recyclers has published "Design Guidelines for Plastic Bottle Recycling."
Included is a description of the recycling process and recommendations for the six most commonly used bottle resins: polyethylene terephthalate, soda and custom; high-density polyethylene, homopolymer and copolymer; polyvinyl chloride, and polypropylene.
Although criticized by some as too simplistic, many observers view the 16-page document as a good first step.
With an overall theme of minimizing contamination, there's a preference for:
Monomaterial over multimaterial packages.
One-piece containers without attachments.
Polyolefin film over paper labels or direct decorating.
Nonmetallized vs. metallized.
Nonpigmented or natural homopolymer high-density polyethylene vs. pigmented;
Pigmented copolymer high-density polyethylene over natural.
Linerless polyolefin closures over aluminum.
Tamper-evident devices that leave no residual ring.
The guidelines also recommend packagers avoid mixing PVC and PET components.
Copies are being distributed to members by the Grocery Manufacturers of America, Washington, and also are available from APPR member Bruce Fortin, Enviro Plastics Group, Auburn, Mass., (508) 832-5095; or fax (508) 832-5168.
