The European Union has approved the inclusion of chemical recycling in the mandatory recycled content for plastic bottles, marking a significant regulatory shift.
On Friday, the 27 EU member states voted to officially recognize chemical recycling as a valid form of recycling for plastic bottles, a decision seen as a critical step towards enhancing the EU's environmental policies. Until now, only mechanical recycling, which involves washing, shredding, and remolding plastic, was counted towards the mandatory recycled content. The decision means that plastic bottles will not only need to include 25% recycled plastic immediately but will increase to 30% by 2030, with new regulations from the European Commission now allowing chemical recycling methods to contribute to these quotas.
This approval comes as the sector positions chemical recycling as a vital tool for decarbonization efforts and reducing plastic waste. Chemical recycling processes can break down plastics into their chemical constituents, allowing for the recycling of materials that are typically non-recyclable through traditional methods. The recognition of these methods in EU policy demonstrates a shift towards innovative solutions in waste management and sustainability, addressing the limitations of mechanical recycling.
A spokesperson for the European Commission hailed the vote as a "first essential step" in establishing comprehensive rules surrounding chemical recycling across the EU. As Europe grapples with the challenges of plastic pollution, integrating chemical recycling into the broader recycling framework is expected to enhance the circular economy and bolster efforts to promote more sustainable practices within the industry.
