A circular economy for plastic recycling

The mechanical recycling sector in the Netherlands is under significant pressure. Insolvencies are mounting, while European legislation such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) calls for increased use of recycled plastic. Without intervention, crucial infrastructure for a circular economy will disappear, along with the Netherlands' leading position in Europe regarding circular plastics. New research by Copper8, SD&Co, Verpact, and Invest-NL shows that structural cost reductions are necessary to make the recycling sector profitable and future-proof.  

A total of ten policy measures have been analyzed, including a CO₂ tax, price measures, technological innovation, and import restrictions. However, without structural cost reductions, these measures are insufficiently effective.