RECOUP Leads Trials to Test Bio-based Materials at UK MRFs

RECOUP is leading the Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) trials for a new programme that investigates how bio-based, biodegradable and compostable materials behave in UK recycling infrastructure.

As part of the second phase of the UK Bio-Based Solutions Network (BB-REG-NET), the trials will aim to assess how the materials behave in the recycling systems and whether they can be reliably identified alongside conventional packaging.

The first phase of this programme focused on identifying the barriers within this sector, whereas the second phase aims to develop solutions to these barriers.

The purpose of this programme is to support the commercialisation of bio-based chemicals and materials through the development of practical tools and standards, reducing the cost and complexity of introducing bio-based products to the UK market.

Richard Cham, RECOUP’s Technical Manager, said the waste sector needs “solid, real-world evidence” about how the growing range of materials entering the market behaves in sorting and recycling systems. He also commented: “This programme will generate that evidence, so the sector has the practical guidance it needs to handle these materials confidently.”.

To read an article about this programme, click here.