LABELLING PETplanet Insider Vol. 24 No. 07+08/23 www.petpla.net 19 that are available on a global scale. The company’s international technical teams are working with local certification bodies to obtain further wash-off assessments. To date, H.B. Fuller has the following certifications for Europe: PET Cycle, Returpack, and Veolia. In addition, the U.S. team is working on the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) approval process. Also, in other regions, Fuller’s experts are teaming up with customers to follow recognised standards and finalise certifications that assure the right the way in the markets served. H.B. Fuller works directly with supply chain associations such as RecyClass, APR, or Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) to cooperate with industry partners on design for recycling guidelines and testing protocols. The input from an adhesive supplier is particularly important as adhesives, and especially wrap-around labelling adhesives on PET bottles, have a huge impact, even though they are a small component of the overall packaging. When considering the circular nature and key success factors of PET bottleto-bottle recycling, adhesives play a crucial role in ensuring high quality, direct food contact approved for PET production. As with any other business, recyclers are seeking to run the most efficient process as possible, paying close attention to water and energy usage of their own operations. The cleaning of PET bottles is an essential step of the PET recycling process when any remaining liquids, labels, adhesives, and any other contamination need to be removed. Thus, an easy and effective label removal and wash-off is paramount to a state-ofthe-art recycling process. H.B. Fuller said that they are now focusing on creating smart materials and systems that reduce costs, improve efficiency, and make products more sustainable. Advanced technologies like H.B. Fuller Earthic 4001 and 4010 need to be specifically formulated to enable easy wash-off. Elizabeth Staab, Global Packaging Sustainability Manager, H.B. Fuller, says: “We believe the next step in development is how to reduce the overall carbon footprint. Thus, with careful selection of appropriate raw materials and efficient manufacturing practices, more sustainable solutions can be achieved in future. One thing is for sure, innovation does not occur in a vacuum, but at the interface of customers, equipment, substrate suppliers, and technical services.” www.hbfuller.com 2023 will see the launch of the Plastics Recycling Show Middle East & Africa. Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai Interested in booking a stand? Contact [email protected] www.prseventmea.com Organised by Supported by MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA 5-7 September 2023 Dubai Register for your FREE entry badge
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