Konstantin: RecyClass is an initiative by Plastic Recyclers Europe and plays a significant role in our activities at PlastCert. As the developer of three different certification schemes, RecyClass provides a solid foundation with broad technical expertise for the continuous development in the field of plastic recycling. In this context, RIGK, through the PlastCert department, acts as a "Certification Body" for RecyClass. This means that Atefeh, Anne, and I are ultimately accredited auditors of RIGK, authorized by RecyClass to conduct the respective certifications.
RecyClass continually adjusts the testing schemes to accommodate new packaging on the market or innovations in the recycling sector. It's an evolving process; for example, new modules are regularly introduced for recycled content to meet new requirements in recycling processes. Our collaboration with RecyClass allows us to stay up-to-date at all times.
- Could you provide insight into the typical process of certification? What are your specific tasks, how much time do you spend in the lab, and how do you divide the work with Atefeh?
Konstantin: Generally, the process of Recycled Content or Recycling Process certification is somewhat more complex than Design for Recycling. Initially, there are two to three preliminary discussions or meetings to assess the suitability of the company for certification. Subsequently, all necessary documents are sent to us for intensive review. Often, another discussion follows to clarify details and obtain any additional information. Then, the on-site audit takes place, which, during initial certification, takes about one day, roughly 6 hours. We jointly review the documentation on-site, conduct random sampling, and inspect the production facilities live. We compare everything with the available information and ensure that everything is valid and traceable. The traceability of materials throughout the entire material flow is crucial for Recycled Content and Recycling Process. This means that it must be reflected in production and the production process in such a way that it can be traced through various production orders, material input numbers, etc.
In the Design for Recycling area, it depends on the additional steps required. Here, we also gather a lot of information, compare it against the requirement catalog, and decide on additional tests that need to be conducted. If everything aligns, the actual examination takes place, where the required tests are carried out, the report is prepared, and the evaluations are assigned.
In terms of task distribution, I mainly handle the steps described above, while Atefeh conducts specific laboratory tests and our material inspections.
- What drives companies to approach you? And from which countries do they mainly originate?
Konstantin: Typically, companies already have an idea whether they want to certify their recycling process, recycled content, or recyclability. The drive often stems from legal requirements. Frequently, the initiative also arises from customer inquiries or because companies have begun to fundamentally engage with the topic and now want to examine it more closely.
As for the origin of companies, there are generally no national restrictions. However, so far, most companies have come from the German area.
- Could you now please explain to us the role of PlastCert in the material testing field?
Konstantin: Certainly, gladly. In the material testing field, we offer laboratory tests in collaboration with plastship and other partners. What makes these tests special is that they are perfectly tailored to plastic recyclates. In addition to the classic technical values, which are naturally part of the testing, we also conduct special tests that are particularly relevant for plastic recyclates. These include, for example, an odor test, an extended DSC analysis with a broader spectrum over 50 grams, or a test of film quality if the material is plastic film. For instance, our partner stretches a film in their facility to check for specks and defects. All these results can then be queried together with plastship via a material datasheet. We are also working on offering these testing services directly on their online platform in the future, together with plastship. Our goal is to become a specialized testing laboratory for recycled plastics and experts in the field of testing recycled plastic.
- Thus, with PlastCert, you cover important areas of plastic recycling. RIGK has fundamentally committed itself to the motto "Our actions now determine the world of tomorrow" and is actively committed to sustainability and an integral approach in plastic recycling. How does PlastCert specifically contribute to these goals and promote the circular economy?
Konstantin: Above all, through our certifications, we support processors, packaging manufacturers, marketers, and recyclers in demonstrating the sustainable use of plastics transparently and in compliance with the law. The certification of packaging recyclability, for example, is a significant step towards high-quality recycling. This means that only when packaging is designed in such a way that it can be recycled effectively, high-quality recyclate is produced. This recyclate can then be used in new plastic products that have higher material requirements. Therefore, good recyclability is crucial for high-quality recyclates that can be used in demanding applications. With PlastCert, we promote the transition to more sustainable packaging and increased use of recyclates.
Furthermore, we also support through our laboratory services by qualifying recycled plastics and helping our customers find the materials that suit their needs. In summary, we in the PlastCert department think circular economy from the start! Especially in the field of plastic packaging, this is of enormous importance. Of course, recyclability is generally relevant for other products as well and should be considered in their development. In our case, however, the focus of the examination is on packaging, as they have the fastest turnover time in the entire cycle. Compared to pipes in the ground, windows, or cars, which only return after many years, plastic packaging often returns in less than a year. Therefore, it is crucial that recyclability is considered in the design phase to enable high-quality recycling.
- What personally excites you about your role in the PlastCert and environmental management field? Which aspects of your work inspire you the most?
Konstantin: One fascinating aspect of my role is the diversity of challenges that come my way. Through on-site audits, I visit many different companies. This means I experience various production processes, see different facilities where similarities exist but it's never exactly the same. I gain insights into various machines and observe how production differs between one company and another. For example, I'm interested in how individual companies try to incorporate more recyclates into their products. Each company has its own specific processes, making the work extremely varied and exciting. I always look forward to diving into a new company and exploring a new production because there's always something I haven't seen before.
Another inspiring aspect of my work is promoting and certifying the sustainable use of plastics. Through our work, we actively contribute to environmental protection, whether it's reducing CO2 emissions or saving plastics themselves. It's gratifying to know that we're contributing to greater environmental awareness and sustainable use of plastics. The laboratory is an additional complement to my work in this regard, as it allows me to thoroughly examine various materials, help reintegrate them into the cycle, and contribute to that process.
Additionally, we're involved in various projects pursuing new approaches and ideas for plastic recycling. We're constantly striving to find ways to bring more recyclates into the cycle and improve our recycling solutions. From my perspective, the work has a very positive direction as it aims to bring more plastics back into circulation and make a real contribution to a more sustainable future.
- Is there a particular project or success related to PlastCert that you are particularly proud of?
Konstantin: Above all, I'm proud that the PlastCert department was established from scratch and successfully built up last year. I'm also particularly pleased that we now have three auditors in our team with Atefeh and Anne. Another significant milestone is the fully functional establishment of our laboratory and the continuous addition of new equipment, enabling us to successfully conduct all necessary investigations.
- Beyond your professional activities, we're interested in what passions and hobbies you pursue in your free time. Is there something that particularly excites you?
Konstantin: Privately, I would say I'm a very social person. I'm heavily involved in volunteering, especially in the football club. There, I serve on the board for FC Waldems and TSV Niederems, and I'm also involved in the local council of Niederems. So, I have a strong connection to my hometown. Even though my knees might disagree, I still enjoy playing football myself. Apart from that, I love hiking and skiing, so I'm very connected to nature and enjoy spending time outdoors. Additionally, I enjoy cooking as it's very relaxing for me.
- What personal values motivate you, and how do they reflect in your work at RIGK?
Konstantin: Primarily, I enjoy supporting sustainability efforts; it's gratifying that my work can contribute to environmental protection. My involvement in volunteering also shows that I enjoy taking responsibility. Serving on the board at FC Waldems clearly reflects that I approach my tasks conscientiously and have a knack for management. These values align well with my professional activities and connect them.
- How do you perceive RIGK as a company and employer? What aspects are particularly important to you?
Konstantin: For me, RIGK is fundamentally like a large family, where collaboration is key. The atmosphere is especially pleasant, whether at various events or simply during lunch, where we always get along well. Additionally, I appreciate the many benefits provided to us as employees. It's also great to continuously receive significant trust and responsibility, such as the responsibility for establishing the PlastCert department.
- How do you envision the future of PlastCert, and what contribution do you personally want to make to it?
Konstantin: My personal goal is to further expand PlastCert, both in terms of new projects and expanding our certification and laboratory services. Given the current situation and the expected developments in the coming years, especially regarding legislation and the goals for 2025 and 2030, I see an enormously growing demand for support in certifications and requirements in the field of recyclate use. And here, with PlastCert, we want to actively contribute to driving these developments forward and providing comprehensive support.
