APR Design® for Recyclability - SmartSolve - Water Soluble Materials

APR Design® for Recyclability Recognition

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has recognized SmartSolve Label materials for meeting the highest criteria for recyclability for their 4PT Direct Thermal Pressure Sensitive dissolvable label and their 3PT (thermal transfer capable) Pressure Sensitive dissolvable label. Both labels were evaluated using the most stringent, industry accepted criteria that encompass a wide range of design features affecting plastic recycling. With 20% label coverage, both products passed PET-CG-02 .

Benefits attributed to this Recognition:

  • Enhanced Recyclability and Purity of Recovered PET
  • A Less Persistent Label Material NOT Destined for Landfill
  • Brands Can Exceed Sustainability Commitments
  • A Streamlined Recycling Process
  • Improved Recovery, Cost Savings, and Operational Efficiency for MRFs


For brands, especially those in the food packaging industry using PET plastic containers, the APR recognition of SmartSolve labels offers a competitive edge. It allows brands to align with growing consumer demand for sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Products such as nuts, bakery items, dry goods, and berries packaged with SmartSolve labels can now be marketed as more eco-friendly, enhancing brand reputation and customer loyalty. APR Design® for Recyclability Recognition provides a clear pathway for brands to meet their recyclability commitments, reduce their environmental impact, and participate in the circular economy. By adopting SmartSolve’s innovative labeling solutions, brands can ensure their packaging contributes to a more sustainable future.

Reclaimers and material recovery facilities (MRFs) will experience significant operational efficiencies thanks to the APR Recognition of SmartSolve’s water-soluble labels. These labels dissolve entirely during the recycling wash process, eliminating the need for chemical solvents and manual label removal. This leads to substantial savings in chemicals and energy, reducing overall costs.

Moreover, the absence of label contaminants ensures that the recovered PET granules are of higher quality, enhancing the overall efficiency and profitability of recycling operations. SmartSolve’s technology supports a more streamlined and environmentally friendly recycling process, contributing to better resource management.

For consumers, the APR Recognition of SmartSolve labels represents a step forward in sustainable living. It means that the products you purchase, such as packaged foods and beverages, are contributing less to environmental waste.

These innovative labels dissolve completely in water, ensuring that the PET containers you recycle are free from contaminants and more likely to be effectively processed and reused. By choosing products with SmartSolve labels, you are supporting a cleaner, more sustainable planet, and helping reduce the burden on landfills and recycling facilities.

APR Design® Recognition is a landmark achievement for SmartSolve, marking a significant milestone in our mission to innovate and advance sustainable packaging solutions. Being the first paper-based, water-soluble label to receive APR Design® Recognition, our 4PT and 3PT Direct Thermal Pressure Sensitive dissolvable labels have set a new industry standard.

This certification not only validates the efficacy and environmental benefits of our products but also opens new market opportunities in the plastics sector. It signifies our commitment to enhancing the recyclability of PET plastics and solidifies our position as leaders in the field of sustainable packaging technology.