UPM Specialty Papers Achieve Dual Recyclability Certifications in Europe and the U.S.

Published: 20 Mar 2025

Author: Precedence Research

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UPM Specialty Papers has scored significantly in sustainability and recycling after clearing the tests under both the CEPI and the WMU recycling certification systems. The certification seals UPM's commitment to furthering sustainable packaging solutions while complying with new regulations.

UPM has now certified its entire barrier paper, barrier base paper, and flexible packaging paper portfolio against the toughest CEPI recyclability test and WMU SBS-E method requirements. In addition, some UPM papers are certified recyclable for the U.S. market.

Certified Papers under CEPI and WMU Methods

UPM Specialty Papers thereby accomplished its overall goal of sustainability and recycling. Accordingly, it certified the recyclability of its papers according to both the European Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) and Western Michigan University (WMU) methods regarding the U.S.-based certification. The certification illustrates UPM's continuous contribution to developing sustainable packaging solutions and new regulatory compliance. The entire variety of barrier papers, barrier base papers, and flexible packaging papers as developed by the company has complied with strict criteria set by the CEPI's recyclability test and the WMU SBS-E Recyclability Certificate method. Select papers from UPM have also received a recyclability certification for the United States.

Regulatory Compliance and Market Readiness

Certification for waste recyclability from WMU has given UPM an extra competitive edge in the USA. Its packaging papers fulfill the CEPI recyclability standards, hence enabling UPM to assist brands and converters with compliance by 2030 with the European Union Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). UPM considers collaboration along the packaging value chain as the sine qua non for innovation in fiber-based packaging. UPM works closely with brands, converters, machine manufacturers, and suppliers of chemicals for the advancement of function, sustainability, and recyclability of its packaging materials. This means that R&D would allow the fine-tuning of the packaging capability of the company.

Expanding Opportunities for Fiber-Based Packaging

UPM Specialty Papers Received Certifications for its packaging papers now certified for recyclability in Europe and the U.S. It moves ahead showing UPM's leadership in sustainable packaging solutions. The certifications are testimony to UPM's efforts in sustainability and the growing demand for packaging made from recyclable fibers. The packaging papers are compliant with the European recyclability method PTS RH 021/97 Cat II and as such would be compatible with existing fiber recycling streams. This is to further the goal of establishing a circular economy, involving efficient recovery of paper fibers and repurposing. 

To prepare itself for an environment to come where global packaging regulations become stricter and within that time when consumer consciousness will be enhanced in sustainability, UPM proactively addresses the future by ensuring its materials readiness for taking in tomorrow's market. But expanded offering portfolio recyclable paper-based packaging materials by UPM aims to continue to ensure that brands will have access to highly sustainable, high-quality alternative solutions. These certifications have further assured UPM's position in leadership in the circular economy transition, thus paving the way for brands to meet recycling standards in Europe and the U.S.