The closure of California reclaimer rPlanet Earth has set alarm bells ringing for the North American plastics recycling industry, as sustainability legislation fails to sufficiently support Europe’s recyclers. | Christophe Licoppe / Shutterstock
In recent weeks, industry calls to action have grown louder about addressing the existential crisis in Europe’s plastics recycling sector, despite the region’s rapidly advancing sustainability mandates. Continue Reading
The sudden inclusion of both virgin and recycled PET in US tariff lists is good news for domestic recyclers, but frustrating for importers. | Tezzstock/Shutterstock
Editor’s Note: Resin markets will be featured in sessions at the 2026 Plastics Recycling Conference, Feb. 23-25 in San Diego, California. Register now for the best rates.
The sudden inclusion of PET resin in the list of imports subject to hefty tariffs is causing concern for some stakeholders and relief for others, even as a disappointing peak summer season draws to a close. Continue Reading
PET resin previously was not subject to the 2025 tariffs, and the move drew comment from APR but added to market confusion. | BigPixel/Shutterstock
Editor’s note: This is a developing story.
US President Donald Trump has expanded tariffs to include PET resin as of Sept. 8, according to a new executive order. The move drew comment from the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) because of its expected impact on imported resin, but added uncertainty to the market.
The Geneva talks ended without agreement, highlighting sharp rifts on production caps, leaving no clear picture of when they might resume. | Maryshot/Shutterstock
After nearly two weeks of tense negotiations, the world’s attempt to forge the first legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution collapsed in Geneva, leaving delegates exhausted, civil groups dismayed and the path forward uncertain.
The Association of Plastic Recyclers recently announced updates to its Design for Recyclability program. | Photo Credit Tan Sackett/APR
The Association of Plastic Recyclers has added new packaging components to its eligibility criteria for Preferred Design Recognition, along with a new tool to simplify the submission process.
Continue Reading
The Allentown site will begin by producing RPET flake to nearby Circularix and other converters, from early 2027. | Courtesy of Republic Services
During a recent investor call, Republic Services subtly confirmed it would site its third co-located polymer center and resin processing plant in Pennsylvania, and the hauler soon confirmed the specific location: Allentown. Continue Reading
The two major U.S. chemical companies cited subdued demand and an unfavorable capital investment climate. | JHVEPhoto/Shutterstock
Two U.S. chemical recyclers have announced delays to major investments in the emerging technology, amid a challenging demand environment and funding concerns. Continue Reading
Delegates from around the world will navigate a number of sticking points that remain after five previous rounds of negotiations. | Memori Susandi/Shutterstock
Delegates from more than 170 countries will gather at the United Nations’ Palais des Nations Aug. 5-14 for what may be the final round of negotiations on a landmark international treaty to curb plastic pollution. Continue Reading
The company is exploring options to increase RPET production, including debottlenecking the existing Kingsport methanolysis plant and exploring locations other than Longview, Texas. | Trismegist san/Shutterstock
Eastman Chemical will delay its second U.S. methanolysis plant for two years, as it appeals the revocation of a key federal grant and explores capacity expansions at its flagship site in Tennessee and other locations, CEO Mark Costa said during an investor call Aug. 1. Continue Reading
Despite gains made in recycled content, textile manufacturing faces unique challenges, a Unifi executive said during a recent APR podcast. | Photo Courtesy of Unifi
Editor’s Note: Mark your calendar for the 2026 Textile Recovery Summit, Feb. 23-25 in Chula Vista, California. Continue Reading