APR PCR Certification
What is APR PCR Certification?
APR PCR Certification is independent, third-party verification that recycled content comes from genuine post-consumer recycled (PCR) sources. Reclaimers are audited to confirm their pellet and flake are true PCR. Companies downstream are audited to ensure the products reaching end users can be traced all the way back to that original PCR source.
The program is administered by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), the largest North American non-profit focused exclusively on improving plastics recycling. Audits are carried out by ISO/IEC 17065-accredited certification bodies. Think Green is an APR recommended certification body.
Who is APR PCR Certification for?
The certification covers all major resin types, in any recycled-content application.
Reclaimers and recyclers. Producers of PCR pellet or flake certify at the source, verifying their material is true post-consumer recycled content. Material must contain at least 90% PCR.
Manufacturers and the supply chain. Companies using PCR to make semi-finished or finished goods, and those that take custody of the material along the way: compounders, fillers, brokers, traders, distributors, and brands. Qualifying products must contain at least 10% PCR to carry an APR PCR claim.
How to get certified with Think Green?
Application. We collect information about your company and products to confirm your certification needs and check your products meet APR's content thresholds.
Quote. We provide you a clear, fixed-fee quote up front, so you know the full cost before you commit. No surprises later.
Agreement. We put a certification agreement in place, including confidentiality terms that protect your business information.
Audit preparation. You develop your documented procedures, gather records, complete your recycled-content calculations, and perform an internal audit. We provide templates and checklists to guide you.
On-site audit. A veteran auditor visits your facility to verify traceability and reconcile volumes, confirming the recycled content you claim matches what moves through your operation.
Final evaluation. We compile the findings into an audit report with a clear recommendation. You know exactly where you stand.
Resolve non-conformities. If the audit surfaces issues, you have 30 days to submit corrective actions and 90 to close them.
Certificate issued. We issue your certificate and you're ready to sell APR PCR certified product.
Why Choose Think Green?
Every certification body audits against the same APR standard. What sets us apart is the experience: industry veterans who know your world, a dedicated account manager who gives you straight answers, and audits run on your timeline. Think Green offers APR PCR certification globally. We offer audits in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian, and can arrange translators for other languages.
Want to know more? Visit the Think Green APR Resource Centre
Our Resource Centre has plain-language explainers, templates you can use today, and answers to the questions we hear most.
Your Certification Experts
You're supported at every step by an industry expert who understands your business. Meet the team who'll get you certified.
Harrison Nix - Account Manager
Herminio Smania de Freitas - Senior Auditor