European Commission consults on new plastic recycling regulations

The European Commission has launched two consultations aimed at establishing new rules for plastic recycling by the end of the year. These measures intend to standardize how recycled plastic content in packaging is calculated, ensure the sustainability of recycling technologies, and regulate the importation of recycled plastics from non-EU countries.

In response to the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), European recycling industry groups—including Plastics Recyclers Europe (PRE), FEAD, and Recycling Europe—are calling for protections for domestic producers. They are urging the Commission to implement a 'mirror clause' that prioritizes recycled materials produced within Europe (EU-27, EFTA, and the UK) to meet mandatory recycled content targets set for 2030.

The industry warns that without clear preferences for 'Made in Europe' materials, mandatory targets could inadvertently favor imports of recycled content that may lack effective verification of their environmental standards and traceability. This comes at a time when the European recycling sector is facing plant closures and declining demand.