Metal paint cans have been awarded an On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) ‘widely recycled’ label
The OPRL scheme was launched in March 2009 in response to research that identified a need to communicate better with consumers about what types of packaging can be recycled.
The label was awarded following research, commissioned by the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA) and leading manufacturer and MPMA member, Ardagh Group, and verified by Wrap, to determine the extent to which empty metal paint cans are accepted for recycling at Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRCs) across the UK.
The requirement, specified by the scheme which is run by the BRC (British Retail Consortium) with technical support from Wrap, is for acceptance for recycling at a local HWRC by minimum 75% of local authorities.
Nick Mullen, director and chief executive, MPMA, said: “The Widely Recycled at Local Council Recycling Centres’ label sends a clear message to paint retailers and manufacturers that metal paint cans are a front runner when considering sustainable packaging for paint.
“A permanently available resource, metal can be recycled indefinitely with no loss of quality, and through this research and subsequent award, retailers and paint manufacturers can be confident that metal paint packaging is well and truly embedded in the recycling loop.”
OPRL members
Marcel Arsand, project manager, Wrap, who oversaw the development of the latest OPRL guidelines added: “Wrap provides technical support to the OPRL scheme, including the verification of labels associated with the recycling collection infrastructure in the UK.The research showed that the majority of HWRCs now accept empty metal paint containers for recycling in their scrap metal collection skips and we’re pleased to offer the ‘Widely Recycled at Local Council Recycling Centre’label to OPRL members for use on metal paint cans.”
Freddie Holloway, UK account manager, Paints and Coatings, who supported the project from the Ardagh Group, explained:“The label underpins further work by the MPMA to encourage metal paint can recycling including the distribution of consumer information literature through selected B&Q stores, HWRCs and local authorities. The leaflets highlight local recycling points and present actual paint disposal methods including methods for the drying out of leftover paint and the use of local paint recycling services.”
