What are the latest trends in recycled content certifications?

Streamlined and Integrated Certification Programs

A significant trend in 2025 is the move towards streamlined and integrated certification processes to reduce complexity and cost for manufacturers. This is achieved through partnerships between certification bodies and industry associations.

• SCS and APR Dual Certification: SCS Global Services, in collaboration with the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR), launched a new program offering a "two-for-one" audit for producers of plastic chips, pellets, flakes, and resins. This allows companies to obtain both SCS Recycled Content certification and APR certification in a single audit, providing a one-stop-shop for international market recognition .
• APR and EU RecyClass Harmonization: The APR's new PCR Certification program was developed in coordination with the EU RecyClass's Audit Scheme for Recycled Plastics Traceability. This alignment aims to create global harmonization, making it more efficient for multinational companies to obtain certification under both standards simultaneously, reducing audit costs and resources .

Expansion of Certification Standards and Scope

Certification standards are evolving to cover a broader range of materials and processes, reflecting advancements in recycling technology and the growing demand for diverse recycled inputs.

• Inclusion of Chemically Recycled Content: The SCS-103 standard, Version 8.0, now includes chemically recycled content alongside mechanically recycled materials. This expansion is crucial as chemical recycling technologies become more prevalent and offer new pathways for processing difficult-to-recycle plastics .
• Mass Balance Systems: Version 8.0 of the SCS-103 standard now allows for the operation of a mass balance chain-of-custody system. This method is a critical enabler for facilities with complex material handling processes, such as those involved in chemical recycling, as it allows for the allocation of recycled content claims to designated product groups without double-counting inputs and outputs .
• Lower Minimum Thresholds: The updated SCS-103 standard has set a minimum threshold of 5% recycled content for a product to be eligible for certification. This lower threshold encourages more products to participate in the circular economy, even if they cannot yet meet higher recycled content targets .

Focus on PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) Certification

There is a heightened focus on verifying and building market confidence in the supply of post-consumer recycled content, which is essential for creating a stable and credible circular economy.

• APR's PCR Certification Program: The APR has expanded its PCR Certification Program to cover an estimated 30% or more of the post-consumer PET, PP, HDPE, and LDPE/LLDPE produced in North America . The program provides independent third-party verification that recycled content comes from post-consumer sources, building confidence for both buyers and sellers. The new program, launched in November 2024, is based on ISO Chain-of-Custody and Traceability standards, ensuring a robust and transparent process .
• Advocacy for PCR Markets: The APR continues to advocate for policies that strengthen domestic recycling and ensure fair competition for PCR materials. This includes supporting legislation like the CIRCLE Act, which offers tax credits for recycling infrastructure, and championing PCR mandates to build stable demand for recycled materials .

Development of Unified and Harmonized Standards

The industry is moving towards more unified and harmonized standards to create a common language and reduce fragmentation across different certification schemes.

• Transition to the Materials Matter Standard: The Textile Exchange is transitioning its Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) and Global Recycled Standard (GRS) into a new, unified standard called the Materials Matter Standard. Effective December 31, 2026, this new standard will provide a common framework for the production and primary processing of raw materials in the fashion and textile industry, connecting sustainability efforts to measurable outcomes for climate, nature, and people .
• Industry Collaboration: The trend towards harmonization is driven by collaboration between certification bodies, industry associations, and regulatory bodies. For example, the APR's new PCR standard was developed in coordination with the EU RecyClass, demonstrating a commitment to global alignment .

Key Certifications and Their Focus Areas

Several key certifications are shaping the landscape in 2025, each with a specific focus to address different aspects of the circular economy.

The Role of Digital Traceability and Transparency

Transparency and traceability are becoming essential components of recycled content certification. Digital tools are being integrated to provide verifiable data and combat greenwashing.

• Digital Product Passports (DPPs): The EU's Digital Product Passport framework, set to be rolled out from 2027, requires verified material, carbon, and recyclability data to be embedded in product packaging. This increases transparency across the value chain and supports compliance with regulations like the EU Green Claims Directive .
• QR Codes and On-Pack Labels: Brands are increasingly using QR codes on packaging that link to digital product passports or detailed recycling information. The UK's On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) provides standardized consumer guidance, helping to increase correct sorting rates .