ISCC+ Certification – what does it mean?

We recently achieved International Sustainability & Carbon Certification, ISCC PLUS, a credible sustainability certification standard for products linked to recycled and bio-based plastic.

What is ISCC+ and what does it means?

ISCC is a world leading certification system that supports the credibility of transparent and sustainable supply chains for an optimistic and climate-friendly future.

ISCC PLUS certification covers both chemical and mechanical recycling. By replacing fossil-based feedstocks with recycled or renewable raw materials, companies can significantly reduce plastic waste and limit the extraction of finite natural resources.

For our customers, this accreditation means that we can supply BOPP, CPP and PE films with ISCC+ certified feedstock which includes circular and bio-based materials. It is a voluntary certification that is globally recognised in providing traceability and certification of recycled/bio content across the whole supply chain, verifying that companies meet environmental and social standards and we are proud to hold this status.

How does this relate to Plastic Packaging Tax?

Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), introduced in April 2022, is aimed at incentivising the use of recycled plastic in packaging. In order to be tax exempt packaging must contain more than 30% recycled material and from April 2027 chemically recycled material will count towards this.

As Roberts Mart is ISCC+ accredited we can support customers with their PPT compliance by providing certified documentation.

In terms of on pack wording, there are strict guidelines on what is permissible. The correct wording should be:

“30% recycled material allocated via ISCC mass balance”, or “Packaging linked to 30% circular material, (ISCC mass balance).”

Do customers need ISCC+ certification?

Customers do not need the certification for tax purposes but in most cases it is required for on-pack claims where packaging includes the use of the ISCC logo and for consumer-facing claims.

ISCC+ accreditation is an important step forward for Roberts Mart in supporting our customers on their sustainability journey. It means we can support both immediate PCR solutions for tax compliance today, and ISCC+ certified circular materials as a future-proof route for recycled content and PPWR requirements.

Sustainability is not just a goal, it’s a responsibility and we work together with our supply partners and customers to build more responsible packaging solutions.