Avery Dennison wins RecyClass nod for RFID PET tags

Avery Dennison has received RecyClass Technology Approval in Europe for its AD CleanFlake RFID tags, covering PET bottle recyclability.

The decision makes Avery Dennison the first manufacturer with an RFID label product recognised by both RecyClass in Europe and the Association of Plastic Recyclers in North America as compatible with mechanical PET recycling streams.

The development addresses a longstanding packaging and recycling challenge: adding RFID tags to plastic containers without contaminating the recycling process. Brands and retailers use RFID to track products and packaging through supply chains, but tags can complicate recycling if adhesives or metal components remain mixed with plastic flakes after processing.

Avery Dennison said its AD CleanFlake product combines its CleanFlake adhesive with a patent-pending RFID inlay and label construction designed to separate from rigid PET during mechanical recycling. This helps avoid adhesive and metal contamination, leaving PET flakes suitable for reuse.

For multinational consumer goods groups, the approval could simplify packaging design across regions. Brand owners operating in North America and Europe can use a single label construction recognised under both regional recycling frameworks, rather than relying on different systems for different markets.

Recycling pressure

The move comes as packaging companies face tighter scrutiny over the recyclability of materials used in bottles, containers and labels. PET remains one of the most widely used plastics in consumer packaging, particularly for beverages, food, household products and cosmetics, making its treatment in recycling systems a focus for regulators and manufacturers.

Avery Dennison pointed to pressure on consumer packaged goods companies to meet recyclability and waste management targets. It also cited the EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, which requires brands to demonstrate recyclability at scale.

RecyClass is a European cross-industry initiative that develops recyclability assessment methods and certification schemes for plastic packaging and recycling processes. Its technology approval process is designed to test whether packaging components are compatible with established recycling streams.

The European approval builds on earlier recognition in North America. That recognition covered rigid PET packaging, while the RecyClass approval applies to PET bottles in Europe.

Pascale Wautelet, Vice President, Global R&D and Sustainability, Avery Dennison Materials Group, said the dual recognition has broader significance.

"When APR recognized the AD CleanFlake RFID products, it validated that RFID and PET recyclability no longer have to be in conflict. We're proud that RecyClass Technology Approval validates our RFID tag compatibility with the European PET bottles recycling stream. Brands operating across North America and Europe now have a single, approved solution that works within both recycling infrastructures, without compromise," said Wautelet.

Testing scope

The approval applies to the label component and adhesive construction under specific testing conditions, rather than to an entire packaged product. Consumer brands still need to assess whether their final packaging designs meet recyclability requirements once all components are combined.

This distinction matters because a bottle's recyclability depends on more than one label or tag. Closures, inks, sleeves, additives and bottle design can all affect whether a package is accepted and effectively processed within mechanical recycling systems.

RecyClass Chairman Paolo Glerean said the testing framework is intended to identify plastic packaging technologies that can work within circular material systems.

"The core purpose of RecyClass Technology Approval is to advance and recognize circular packaging technologies through science-based testing methodologies that evaluate recyclability. Given the stringent criteria applied, combined with Avery Dennison's clear commitment to advancing circularity on a global scale, this Approval serves as a testament that recyclable solutions are readily available on the market and jointly we can work towards achieving the upcoming legislative targets," said Glerean.

Avery Dennison employs about 35,000 people in nearly 60 countries and reported sales of USD $8.9 billion in 2025.