There are now only a few types of scrap plastic shipments not subject to the new Basel criteria. | Go_Legacy/Shutterstock
Experts with the U.S. EPA say there are a number of potential outcomes from upcoming shifts in global rules governing scrap plastic shipments. Under one possibility, trade in scrap plastic will no longer be allowed between the U.S. and most other countries.
The Recycling Partnership recently released “Accelerating Recycling,” a policy document outlining a proposal that includes fees paid by brands and packaging producers. | photka/Shutterstock
Two major industry groups are promoting packaging fees on product makers to support recycling infrastructure development, a shift one recycling facility operator described as a “historical moment.”
A deal between Merlin Plastics and NOVA Chemicals was big news last month. | Courtesy of NOVA Chemicals.
News about Merlin’s deal with a resin giant grabbed reader attention last month. California’s recycled-content mandate and updates from China also drew lots of interest.
PET bottle labels can be problematic to the plastics recycling process, but a PET bottle label innovation recently received a letter confirming its compatibility. | Ho Su A Bi/Shutterstock
Testing has shown that a label for PET bottles and several tube packages are compatible with current plastics recycling processes.
A leader with AmSty recently explained how polystyrene is uniquely suited for pyrolysis processing. | Daniel Fung/Shutterstock
INEOS Styrolution and AmSty are working with an emerging processor on an Illinois pyrolysis plant to convert polystyrene into a feedstock for new products.
Chemical giant LyondellBasell has made a series of moves further into the recycling space in recent years. | Flagmania/Shutterstock
A major prime plastics manufacturer pledged to produce and market 2 million metric tons of “recycled and renewable-based polymers” per year by 2030.
The new California law requires that plastic bottles covered by the bottle deposit program contain at least 15% post-consumer resin by 2022. | hedgehog94/Shutterstock
California’s decision to require post-consumer resin in drink bottles could inspire other states, particularly in the Northeast, to pursue similar laws, according to an industry leader.
A committee in Oregon envisions a uniform statewide “accepted recyclables list,” as well as “truth-in-labeling” requirements, which would require packaging to have accurate labeling indicating whether it should be recycled, composted or disposed of in the trash. | emmavgerard/Shutterstock
A multi-stakeholder group in Oregon is urging state leaders to implement an extended producer responsibility program for printed paper and packaging. In Washington, officials are developing recommendations to reduce plastic packaging waste.
Stony Brook University is one New York school receiving funding to research recycling-related topics. | Steve Cukrov/Shutterstock
The state of New York will inject nearly $12 million into academia to study and improve the recycling system. Continue Reading
KW’s recycled PP paint can manufacturing operation, KW Container, has experienced increased sales during the pandemic. | Photo courtesy of KW
Supply and demand realities for key curbside plastics are evolving fast during the coronavirus pandemic, and they’ve led one major plastics recycling company to adjust operationally. Continue Reading