See below for some answers to Frequently Asked Questions on PackScore. If you have a question that is not answered here, please email the BPF, and we will be happy to respond. 

 

Is the score an official certification of recyclability?

No, the tool is intended as a guide only and you should consult a more comprehensive tool to receive an official rating of whether your product will actually be recycled or not. 

 

Why is PackScore not an official certification?

In order to receive an authoritative judgment on whether a product can be recycled or not, more specific technical details and data are required. PackScore is designed purposely to leave this level of detail out, so that it becomes easier to use for a wider audience. 

 

I disagree with the rating I received, what should I do?

The tool is only intended as a guide and not a final certification, there will be occassions where the recyclability rating from A-F will not be perfectly accurate. If you have questions over your rating and do not understand why the tool has provided that rating, it may be useful to read through more detailed guidelines such as the Recyclability by Design guidelines, or others available. If you still have questions you can contact the BPF.  

 

My packaging product came out an F - What does that mean?

An F rating typically means that the product is not currently widely recycled either because it contains a product that contaminates it, fundamental design issues or lack of specific waste stream widely present in the EU. It is technically possible to recycle all plastics, so it may be possible that chemical recycling plants are able to recycle it (Recycling Technologies are an example of one such company). 

If you wish to use a more comprehensive tool, please visit Recyclass. 

If your product receives an F rating, this does not mean your product is unsustainable. It just indicates there's a good chance it's very difficult to recycle within the current recycling system in the EU. This rating is based on the Recyclass system. However, packaging products can still be a sustainable choice even in certain conditions where it is difficult to recycle them. Because of issues such as re-usability, or the packaging being particularly resource efficient. 

For a broader picture of how sustainable packaging products are, Life Cycle Analyses provide the means to assess how sustainable an item is. 

 

How is PackScore different from all the other available eco-design tools?

PackScore is different to the other tools available as it can be used interactively to find better solutions rather than assess a final design. This allows many iterations to be reviewed quickly so better results can be achieved. It is conceived as an “on the go” tool that is easy to use but gives a creditable assessment of a pack option.

 

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Legal Disclaimer: Packscore is intended for information and/or entertainment purposes only. The British Plastics Federation in no way provides any warranty, express or implied, with respect to the information, or any use of the information, contained within PackScore. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained within PackScore, the information may inadvertently contain inaccuracies. The British Plastics Federation specifically disclaims liability for incidental, or consequential damages and assumes no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage suffered as a result of the use or misuse of any of the information or content contained within PackScore. By using Packscore, you agree and acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy of the information contained within PackScore, and under no conditions should PackScore be used as a substitute for professional advice.