DEKRA enables companies to credibly demonstrate the recycled content in their products through rigorous certification processes. Adherence to the standards set by ISO 14021:2016 ensures that the claims of recycled content are accurate, transparent, and verifiable. The certification adds authority and reassurance by communicating that the recycled content claims are not only stated but also independently 3rd party verified, providing confidence to consumers and stakeholders in the product’s material content and environmental credentials.
Recycled content, at its core, refers to the proportion of materials used in a product that originates from recycled sources, rather than virgin resources. Recycled Content Certification reflects a company’s commitment to producing environmentally responsible products and conserving natural resources. By incorporating recycled content, manufacturers can help reduce the environmental impact associated with raw material extraction and minimize the waste sent to landfills. This practice supports a circular economy and lowers the overall environmental footprint of the product.
Certification is available for manufacturers of products or materials that incorporate post-consumer or pre-consumer recycled content and wish to make a verified sustainability claim. This certification can be applied to feedstocks and finished products across various industries, including building materials, packaging, plastics, textiles, jewelry, metals, electronics, home goods, wood, paper, and more.
Key standards and certification programs play a vital role in this verification process. The ISO 14021 standard guides companies in accurately documenting and validating the recycled content in their products. This standard not only facilitates reliable reporting but also ensures that consumers and stakeholders are confident in the authenticity of the recycled material claims. In a market increasingly focused on sustainability and with the risk of greenwashing, DEKRA’s adherence to the ISO 14021 standard helps businesses align with their global sustainability goals throughout the supply chain and offers a competitive advantage by appealing to environmentally conscious consumers across all major industries.