What is PREP?
The Packaging Recyclability Evaluation Portal (PREP) is an online platform organisations are able to use to verify if their packaging is or isn’t recyclable in Australian and New Zealand kerbside collections.
When it comes to packaging, even the smallest details can have an impact on recyclability, including the packaging shape, size, weight, inks, adhesives and the materials used. For every item of packaging, PREP considers all of these factors, as well as the availability of collection services, how the packaging will behave in a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) and in subsequent processing facilities, such as paper mills and aluminium smelters.
By aggregating all of this information into a simple online platform, PREP enables businesses to understand whether their packaging is recyclable, non-recyclable, or conditionally recyclable – provided consumers follow a set of instructions during disposal.
The PREP process provides a verified and transparent education loop between the design and the end-of-life of packaging in the Australian and New Zealand kerbside recycling systems.
What PREP Users are saying
"PREP supports us in making informed decisions about the recyclability of our packaging." Jacky Nordsvan, Packaging Specialist at Nestlé Australia
"We have welcomed the introduction of the PREP tool to ensure an effective approach to our end-to-end recycling capability. It has been the missing link between materials production and recycling plant processes and we encourage any business that has a commitment to sustainability to use it." Beau Boundy, Senior Brand Manager at Tata Global Beverages.
If you are an organisation interested in PREP and the ARL, contact APCO today!
Most Australians are confused about the recyclability of at least one common packaging item. This confusion stems from unclear labelling, changes in recycling systems over time and differences between collection services.
The Australasian Recycling Label is an evidence-based system for Australia and New Zealand that provides consumers with easy to understand recycling information when they need it most. The ARL removes confusion, saves time and reduces waste going to landfill. For more information head over to the Australasian Recycling Label Website, proudly brought to you by Planet Ark.
PREP is the verification tool required to underpin the application of the ARL on packaging sold in Australia and New Zealand.
To learn about the governance of the ARL Program by APCO, visit this site: ARL Governance
