Plastics

The European plastics recycling industry has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Plummeting oil prices have resulted in a sharp decline of virgin plastics prices.

Demand for recycled plastics has been “very weak”, “huge” stocks are overhanging the market and many companies are struggling with “a lack of liquidity”, while at the same time low oil values have driven down prime plastic prices.

During the General Assembly of European Plastics Converters, Mr. Renato Zelcher, CEO of Crocco SpA, has been re-elected as EuPC President for the period 2020-2022.

The recently presented EU Recovery Plan is a necessary means to helping waste management companies achieve a circular economy across Europe.

Lightweight and inexpensive, plastic is one of the world’s most used materials, but its extreme durability means that effective end-of-life management is critical.

The Polyolefin Circular Economy Platform (PCEP) has called for investment decisions taken by Member States, the EU and all economic actors, as part of the EU recovery package to be focused on delivering the circular economy.

RecyClass Recyclability Methodology document provides comprehensive information on the assessment methods used to assess and certify recyclability of a plastic package.

VinylPlus, the Voluntary Commitment to sustainable development of the European PVC industry, recycled 771,313 tonnes of PVC in 2019 – more than 96% of the programme’s 2020 target.

The company Lohner Kunststoffrecycling GmbH (LKR) in Vechta, Germany, has been recovering plastic waste generated during the production of industrial or consumer goods since 1992.

The Brochure highlights the importance of moving towards a circular economy for plastics in Europe.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiatives stemming from the Polluter Pays principle are being questioned right now when it comes to post-consumer recycled plastics (PCR).