The below quote can be attributed to Virginia Janssens, Managing Director, Plastics Europe:
“Plastics Europe takes note of the Member States’ vote to include chemical recycling under the recycled content rules of the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD). The decision reinforces the need for a technology-neutral approach and aligns with the Commission’s recognition of chemical recycling as an essential complement to other recycling technologies, such as mechanical recycling, in meeting recycled content targets.
The SUPD Implementing Decision should serve as a real-life testing ground for recycled content calculation methodologies, with implementation closely monitored, reviewed and refined where necessary.
The rules approved under the SUPD, which is limited to PET bottles, now need to be optimised for upcoming legislation with broader polymer and product scope, such as for the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and End of Life Vehicles Regulation (ELVR).
Successfully developing a viable circular economy in the plastics value chain requires investment in an existing asset base; not the creation of a new one. This means rules for broad sector legislations must be practical and enabling, supporting chemical recycling alongside mechanical recycling and unlock the full potential of existing assets and infrastructure. Policy measures should aim to help Europe stop sending its end-of-life waste plastic to landfill and incineration so that it can be used as a valuable and locally supplied feedstock resource instead.”
Notes for Editors: Plastics Europe is the pan-European association of plastics manufacturers with offices across Europe. For over 100 years, science and innovation have been the DNA that cuts across our industry. With members producing over 90% of all polymers across EU27+3 (Norway, Switzerland, UK) we are the catalyst for the industry with a responsibility to openly engage with stakeholders and deliver solutions which are safe, circular and sustainable. We are committed to implementing long-lasting positive change.