Henkel and China Packaging Federation Ignite ‘Green Torch’ to Accelerate Sustainable Packaging Transformation

Henkel has launched its RecycLab in Shanghai to pioneer a new packaging ecosystem.

(IN BRIEF) Henkel has launched its first Packaging RecycLab in Shanghai, a cutting-edge facility aimed at advancing sustainable packaging through adhesive innovation and recycling research. Developed in alignment with the CEPI/4Evergreen framework, the lab enables localized testing, data generation, and industry collaboration to promote “design-for-recycling” principles. The launch coincided with the China Packaging Federation’s visit, during which Chairperson Li Hua and Henkel jointly initiated the 2025 “Green Packaging Recycling China Tour.” Henkel executives highlighted the lab’s role in supporting sustainability across the packaging lifecycle, from design to recycling, while reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to China’s green transformation.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 28-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Henkel has officially opened its Packaging RecycLab in Shanghai, marking a major step forward in advancing sustainable packaging innovation in China. This specialized research and testing facility is designed to evaluate how adhesive technologies can enhance recycling processes and accelerate the shift toward a circular economy. To commemorate the launch, Henkel and the China Packaging Federation (CPF), led by Chairperson Li Hua, jointly inaugurated the 2025 “Green Packaging Recycling China Tour,” symbolically igniting the ‘Green Torch’ to promote industry-wide environmental transformation.

The establishment of the Packaging RecycLab underscores Henkel’s long-term strategy to localize sustainability-driven innovation within the Chinese and Asia-Pacific markets. Developed under the internationally recognized CEPI/4Evergreen testing framework, the RecycLab integrates packaging design evaluation, material testing, and recycling simulation into one facility. This enables Henkel to generate critical technical data that helps customers optimize packaging for recyclability, advancing the “design-for-recycling” principles essential to a closed-loop packaging ecosystem.

Dr. Alejandro Schoenhoff, Head of Packaging APAC at Henkel Adhesive Technologies, emphasized that China plays a vital role in global sustainability efforts. He described the new RecycLab as a strategic initiative demonstrating Henkel’s enduring commitment to the Chinese market. “Through the RecycLab, we are helping customers make informed decisions in material selection and packaging structures, minimizing environmental impact while driving both ecological and economic value,” he said.

LI Hua, Chairperson of the China Packaging Federation and Dr. Alejandro Schoenhoff, Head of Packaging APAC at Henkel Adhesive Technologies during the torch ceremony.

During their visit, CPF delegates, led by Li Hua, explored the facility and discussed future collaboration opportunities. Li praised Henkel’s contributions to advancing China’s packaging innovation landscape, noting, “The Packaging RecycLab brings together international expertise and local insights. It will serve as an important foundation for driving the sustainable growth of the entire industry.”

Yanjie Zheng, APAC Sustainability Manager for Henkel Packaging Adhesives, outlined Henkel’s end-to-end sustainability approach for the packaging industry — addressing everything from design and carbon reduction to end-of-life recycling and compliance with evolving regulations such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

A central highlight of the CPF delegation’s visit was the symbolic torch relay ceremony for the “Green Packaging Recycling China Tour.” Originating in 2023, when Henkel first received the torch at the China International Import Expo, the initiative has inspired hundreds of value-chain enterprises to pursue greener packaging solutions.

With the RecycLab now operational, Henkel aims to strengthen partnerships across academia, industry, and research institutions to create a collaborative and inclusive innovation ecosystem. The company plans to increase investment in sustainable technologies, enabling the Chinese packaging industry to achieve its circular economy goals and lead in global green transformation.

Media Contact:

Sebastian Hinz
Adhesive Technologies
Media Relations
Headquarters, Düsseldorf/Germany
+49-211-797-8594
press@henkel.com

SOURCE: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA