mass balance

A method to match output (i.e. products with recycled content) with input (i.e. quantity of recycled feedstock) within a predefined system boundary (see below) and within a given booking period (usually one year).

mass-balanced product

This is a product for whose manufacture in the value chain waste-based raw materials were demonstrably used in the mass balance. The proportion of waste-based raw materials in the product does not necessarily have to be physically detectable.

material recovery

Material preparation including mechanical recycling, material (chemical) recycling and organic recycling, but excluding energy recovery.

mechanical recycling

Processing of waste material into secondary raw material or products using mechanical unit operations only and without significantly changing the chemical structure of the material. Examples include mechanical reprocessing of plastics and paper repulping.

minor discrepancy

Minor discrepancy during the audit that the certified company must rectify within 3 months. If a deviation is not corrected within 3 months to the satisfaction of the inspector, the certification should be withdrawn.