This example, trialed in a Henkel Consumer Brands finished good, shows what the DPP looks like in practice. Each package produced with Loctite Liofol is given a QR code that is linked with the R-Cycle DPP. This ensures that technical data, safety information and environmental aspects can be accessed directly. Henkel is working with R-Cycle to extend this traceability, thus optimizing the disposal and recyclability of the product as well.
Dr. Benedikt Brenken, Director R-Cycle, explains: “The application with Henkel shows very well how relevant information on the packaging components used - in this case the adhesive - can be recorded in the DPP and made available throughout the entire product life cycle. In this way, we create a defined level of transparency and easy traceability along the value chain. We see this as a decisive advantage regarding the constantly growing information demand.”
In addition, Henkel records the carbon emissions generated in the manufacture and use of the lamination adhesive in the DPP. This information is critical to complying with the ESPR requirements and to assessing the product’s carbon footprint throughout its entire life cycle.
The information recorded in the DPP enable end-of-life companies to properly manage the disposed packaging when it arrives to the sorting and recycling center, positively contributing to circular economy and recycling ratio.
Actively shaping the transition for processes and materials
“We are on track to be able to offer each customer a sustainable product that is either derived from sustainable sources or has an outstanding recyclability profile,” explains Philippe Blank. As a supplier and brand owner, Henkel is in the unique position of covering a large part of the value chain. “80 percent of a product’s environmental footprint is defined in the design phase. We use our knowledge to advise our customers at an early stage,” emphas Philippe Blank.
The product carbon footprint (PCF) of individual components and of the product overall has a particularly crucial role to play here. In this connection, Henkel has established extensive capacities to identify savings potential and provide reliable data for Digital Product Passports and reporting requirements. These data are especially relevant to the recyclability of packaging and the obligation to use recycled raw materials.
“We align our work with leading assessment methods and design guidelines and are actively working on new test methods,” says Philippe Blank. The packaging industry is currently undergoing a profound change that is resulting in a significant shift in the materials used. These changes are also impacting existing recycling processes. The goal is to close the gaps through the active research and development of new test methods in order to prepare Henkel and its customers for pending legislative changes.
Outlook: The DPP to drive innovation and sustainability
“We believe that the DPP offers a great opportunity to promote the circular economy by providing better recycling information, to increase transparency in the supply chain and to strengthen the trust of our customers and partners in our products,” summarizes Philippe Blank. In the years ahead, the DPP will play a central role in the packaging industry as a key lever for driving innovation and increasing competitiveness. In addition to sustainable product development, the DPP is paving the way for the creation of new business models based on digitalization and the circular economy.
