CEN Standard on prevention (EN 13428:2004)
This standard specifies a procedure for assessing packaging to ensure that the weight/volume of its material content is the minimum to maintain functionality, safety and hygiene and consumer acceptance.
The basis for compliance is to identify the “critical area” which governs the achievable limit for source reduction i.e. if the packaging was further reduced it would fail to meet one or more of the listed criteria
- Product protection
- Packaging manufacturing process
- Packing/filling process
- Logistics (including transport, warehousing and handling)
- Product presentation and marketing
- User/consumer acceptance
- Information
- Safety
- Legislation
- Any other relevant issues
If no critical area is identified, there may be scope for further reduction.
A statement of conformity detailing the assessment procedures and determination of the critical area with all supporting documentation should be available to enforcement authorities.
Heavy Metals.
Producers must be able to demonstrate that the minimum adequate amount of heavy metals or dangerous substances has been used in the packaging. The methodology for this is fully explained in a CEN Report on Requirements for measuring dangerous substances in packaging (CR 13695-2:2001).
The following evaluations must be undertaken:
- Have such substances been intentionally added?
- Are any of the substances likely to be released into the environment from ash, emissions or leachate resulting from incineration or landfilling of the packaging or any packaging component after use?
- If any of these substances are likely to be released into the environment, the supplier must ensure minimisation and document the results of the procedure.
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