Recyclable packaging is a prerequisite for a functioning circular economy. In order to quickly and reliably determine the recyclability of new packaging, Henkel uses its specially developed software tool EasyD4R.
Henkel has now made this assessment tool publicly available on its website so that more companies and organisations 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 Home Care products at Henkel.
“This can only succeed if all participants along the value chain cooperate – especially with clear definitions and consistent evaluations.”
“By sharing our assessment tool, we want to contribute to the recyclability of packaging”
Dr. Thorsten Leopold, Henkel
About EasyD4R
The software tool EasyD4R is based on public and recognised criteria catalogues such as those from Plastics Recyclers Europe and is used by Henkel throughout the company.
The goal is to quickly and accurately asses the recyclability of packaging already during the early stages of product development.
This was confirmed by an independent test completed by Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT. The scientists analysed the evaluation software and its results and compared them with national as well as international standards.
“With this tool, the recyclability of product packaging can be evaluated very well,” says Dr.-Ing. Markus Hiebel, Head of Sustainability and Resource Management at Fraunhofer UMSICHT.
“We are delighted that companies like Henkel are taking their responsibility seriously and making a contribution to the development of recyclable packaging”
Dr.-Ing. Markus Hiebel, Fraunhofer UMSICHT
Assess Recyclability at the Touch of a Button
The software evaluates the recyclability of packaging based on its composition and the individual weight proportions of the respective components such as basic materials, closures, labels or colours.
For all materials in question, the tool stores information on the suitability for identification during sorting, and for processing during recycling.
On this basis, EasyD4R shows clear results displayed on a traffic-light evaluation system: It provides information on the recyclability of each design as a percentage and the material combinations which can be optimised for recycling.
By doing so, it supports the development of sustainable packaging solutions.
Commitment to Sustainable Packaging
In its packaging strategy, Henkel has set itself the goal to make all packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025*. The proportion of recycled plastic used in packaging for consumer goods products in Europe should increase to 35 percent.
“As a manufacturer using plastic as an important packaging material, we assume our responsibility.
Dr. Thorsten Leopold, Henkel
We have already made a lot of progress, but at the same time, there is a lot more to do,” says Dr. Thorsten Leopold.
“Therefore, in addition to implementing our packaging strategy, we are involved in numerous cross-industry initiatives and co-operations to promote new solutions.”
Get Your Free Download of EasyD4R
Interested corporations, organisations and experts can download the recyclability evaluation tool – EasyD4R – for free at henkel.com/easyd4r.
More information on Henkel’s commitment to sustainable packaging can be found at henkel.com/plastic.
* Excluding adhesive products where residue may affect recyclability or pollute recycling streams.
About Henkel
Henkel operates globally with a well-balanced and diversified portfolio.
The company holds leading positions with its three business units in both industrial and consumer businesses thanks to strong brands, innovations and technologies.
Henkel Adhesive Technologies is the global leader in the adhesives market – across all industry segments worldwide.
In its Laundry & Home Care and Beauty Care businesses, Henkel holds leading positions in many markets and categories around the world.
Founded in 1876, Henkel looks back on more than 140 years of success. In 2018, Henkel reported sales of around 20 billion euros and adjusted operating profit of around 3.5 billion euros.
Henkel employs around 53,000 people globally – a passionate and highly diverse team, united by a strong company culture, a common purpose to create sustainable value, and shared values.
As a recognised leader in sustainability, Henkel holds top positions in many international indices and rankings. Henkel’s preferred shares are listed in the German stock index DAX.
For more information, please visit henkel.com.
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