ISRI looks to tackle confusion over degradable plastics

United States – The US Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) has updated its policy on degradable additives in plastics packaging in response to long-standing confusion over use of the terms ‘bio-degradable’, ‘oxo-degradable’ and ‘photo-degradable’.

ISRI now suggests that any claims relating to ‘bio-degradable’, ‘oxo-degradable’ or ‘photo-degradable’ materials should be supported by independent third-party research and testing using accepted standard methods and specifications published by ASTM, ISO or other standard-making bodies.

ISRI also advocates the introduction of products containing degradable additives without causing harm or compromising currently acceptable recycling practices, or without negatively impacting recycled material product expectations or the affiliated recycling infrastructure. Furthermore, ISRI argues that such additives should not encourage or excuse ‘poor consumer behaviour such as littering’. 

Furthermore, SRI has updated its positions on: accelerated or bonus depreciation tax allowances; scrap tyre design for recycling; free and fair trade; recyclable materials theft; and the use of rubberised asphalt in road construction.

All these changes are part of an ongoing review process of ISRI’s policies and positions to ensure they ‘continue to meet the needs of the evolving industry and changing political climate’.