The European plastic recycling sector is experiencing its worst moment in history, with a 5.5% drop in turnover in 2024 that threatens industrial resilience, the circular economy and thousands of jobs. The latest annual report highlights the most significant contraction in capacity ever recorded, while preliminary data for 2025 indicate a 50% increase in plant closures, with the loss of almost one million tonnes of production capacity in just three years.

With a total installed capacity of 13.5 million tonnes, the sector remains well below the 6% annual growth needed to meet the targets set by the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation). Pressure on businesses and plants stems from high energy and production costs, reduced domestic demand and an increase in low-cost, unregulated imports. The segments most affected are polyolefin films and PET, each accounting for 25% of closures recorded between 2023 and 2024.

‘Coordinated action between European institutions and national governments is essential to protect the sector, safeguard jobs and ensure Europe’s technological and environmental sustainability,’ said Ton Emans, President of Plastics Recyclers Europe. Urgent measures suggested include fairer and more enforced market regulations and stricter controls on imports.

Source: https://www.plastmagazine.it/crisi-del-riciclo-plastica-in-europa-perse-quasi-1-milione-di-tonnellate-di-capacita/