EU road map sets path for circular plastics

European recyclers have drawn up a road map for a plastics recycling industry that is struggling for survival in the face of low demand and ‘unfair’ competition from countries outside the EU.

The plastics branch of the umbrella organisation EuRIC, EPRB, is advocating the swift implementation of mandatory recycled content targets for plasticsto stimulate demand and encourage investments that will scale up recycling capacities across the continent. It is also seeking incentives to bridge the price gap between virgin and recycled plastics.

Crucial

‘To deliver high-quality recycled materials, the establishment of mandatory collection targets and recyclability criteria to enhance the quantity and quality of inputs to recycling processes is crucial,’ says EPRB.

It insists that striking a balance between precautionary measures and responsible risk managementis critical for the circular economy. With the new restrictions on plastic waste exports brought by the Waste Shipment Regulation, a well-functioning single market for recycled plastics in the EU is seen as imperative.

Establishing EU-wide end-of-waste criteria for plastics to drive the use of high-quality recycled products into new products is ‘more necessary than ever’.

Bold policies

EuRIC general secretary Julia Ettinger adds:‘Low demand for recycled plastics and cheap imports from third countries with low environmental and safety standards threaten the growth and competitiveness of Europe’s plastic recycling industry.

‘To protect it, we need decisive and bold policy measures that will genuinely support one of Europe’s key industries in the transition to a circular and carbon-neutral economy.’

You can find the roadmap here >>