Author Archives: Editorial Staff

Readers last month were drawn to an article about Google’s vision for ushering in a plastics circular economy, while also finding interest in stories about legislation, a prime plastic producer’s perspective and more.

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The latest plastics recycling news

Maryland legislators set EPR bill on governor’s desk
A bill that would set up an extended producer responsibility program for packaging is sitting on the desk of Maryland’s governor after clearing both legislative chambers Monday evening. If it’s signed, Maryland would become the sixth U.S. state to enact such a law.
MRFs, reclaimers finding added value from AI
Robotics and data analytics equipment supplier EverestLabs recently highlighted a handful of examples of how artificial intelligence-equipped data analytics can help MRF operators modify equipment settings to improve commodity recovery.
LyondellBasell to complete PreZero upgrade in early 2026
Global polymers heavyweight LyondellBasell provided updated timelines for some of its U.S. recycling projects amid progress toward 2030 plastics goals in a recent report.
Delays, retaliation mark latest tariff developments
Country-specific reciprocal tariffs have been pushed out until July, but a universal base rate tariff rolled out last week, which covers all countries, and earlier metals tariffs remain in effect. Meanwhile, an all-out trade war between the U.S. and China is intensifying.
Procurement tactics adapt to new supply realities
With PCR requirements increasing rapidly, companies throughout plastics value chains face similar challenges in controlling feedstock supply, scaling up supply and managing capital costs. This sentiment was clear during a Plastics Recycling Conference session as well as a recent industry interview.
Brightmark Indiana auction advances post-bankruptcy
As of early this month, two dozen interested parties had signed non-disclosure agreements expressing interest in bidding on Brightmark’s Indiana chemical recycling facility, which filed for bankruptcy last month. A sale process is set to take place over the next few weeks, culminating May 9.
Natural HDPE continues to rise, other plastic grades stall
Although natural HDPE continued its recent price runup, other curbside plastic grades were flat or fell marginally in value over the past month, with PET and color HDPE seeing dips.