UPM Raflatac Earns RecyClass Approval for UV Adhesive PE Films

UPM Raflatac has achieved a significant milestone by garnering RecyClass recognition for its PE Films featuring Multipurpose UV acrylic adhesive technology. This recognition solidifies UPM Raflatac's pioneering status as the inaugural pressure-sensitive laminate producer to receive approval for this technology category. The approval extends UPM Raflatac's array of RecyClass-approved PE (polyethylene) label materials, acknowledged for their compatibility with recycling, whether composed of colored or natural PE flexible films.

In today's market landscape, consumers and brand owners alike increasingly prioritize sustainability in product solutions, with particular emphasis on packaging recyclability. Recognizing this trend as a pivotal force poised for further growth, UPM Raflatac stands ready to address escalating market demands with its labeling solutions tailored for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). These solutions are inherently designed to facilitate recycling compatibility, aligning seamlessly with evolving sustainability objectives.

Katja Kivelä, Business Director of Food and HPC, Films & Specials SBU EMEIA at UPM Raflatac, underscored the company's commitment to fostering a more sustainable and circular future, stating, "We are committed to advancing towards a more sustainable and circular future. A critical aspect of this journey involves ensuring the recyclability of plastic packaging. Labels play a dual role, not only providing information on flexible packaging and packaging films but also serving functional purposes such as closure systems. We take pride in pioneering the introduction of RecyClass-approved, recycling-compatible labeling solutions for PE flexible packaging as the first self-adhesive label company.

RecyClass, an initiative driven by brands, retailers, converters, raw material producers, and recyclers, aims to bolster the recyclability of plastic packaging, thereby enhancing both the recyclability and quality of recyclates. Leveraging a scientific approach, RecyClass actively fosters and evaluates the recyclability of plastic packaging, developing methodologies and guidelines essential for assessing a package's recyclability.

UPM Raflatac boasts a diverse portfolio of high-quality self-adhesive paper and film products, spanning label materials, graphics solutions, and removable self-adhesive products. With operations spanning 12 factories and a global network of distribution terminals, the company remains steadfast in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to meet evolving market needs. Positioned as one of UPM's growth businesses, UPM Raflatac employs approximately 3,100 individuals and achieved sales nearing EUR 1.5 billion (USD 1.6 billion) in 2023.

UPM pioneers renewable and sustainable solutions, envisioning a future transcending fossil fuels across six distinct business sectors: UPM Fibres, UPM Energy, UPM Raflatac, UPM Specialty Papers, UPM Communication Papers, and UPM Plywood. Renowned as a frontrunner in corporate responsibility, UPM steadfastly aligns with the UN Business Ambition for 1.5°C and embraces science-based targets aimed at combating climate change.