hands holding packaging -Recyclability Assessment Framework in the UK, Defra recycling guidelines

Defra Introduces New Recyclability Assessment Framework to Enhance Packaging Sustainability

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The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) of the UK has recently introduced a framework to evaluate and categorize the recyclability of various packaging materials, under the Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) initiative. This system aims to help businesses understand how their packaging impacts recycling processes and associated costs.   Recyclability Assessment Framework…

Confusing Guidance Poses Plastic Recycling Challenges for UK

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A recent survey by Recoup, a UK plastics charity, reveals that local councils are struggling to prepare for upcoming waste management reforms, with many still unaware of the looming requirements for kerbside plastic collections. Additionally, inconsistent recycling instructions are causing public confusion, potentially hindering progress toward sustainability goals.   Fragmented Communication on Plastic Recycling Recoup’s…

Switzerland Tightens Regulations on Food Contact Plastics and Packaging Inks

Switzerland Tightens Regulations on Food Contact Plastics

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Switzerland has revised its regulations on food contact materials, specifically targeting plastics and packaging inks. These changes, published in Official Collection 2024 755, have come into force from January 1, 2025. The amendments focus on enhancing consumer safety by tightening restrictions on certain chemical substances used in the production of these materials.   Key Amendments…

bpa bps bisphenol a

EU Ban on Bisphenol A in Food Contact Materials

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In December 19, 2024, the European Commission (EC) introduced Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, enforcing a strict ban on bisphenol A (BPA) and other hazardous bisphenols in food-contact materials. This measure aims to enhance consumer safety by eliminating harmful chemicals from products like plastics, coatings, adhesives, and printing inks.   The Ban This regulation enforces a broad…

The Environmental Impact of Plastic Alternatives

The Environmental Impact of Plastic Alternatives

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A comprehensive study published in Environmental Science & Technology evaluates the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of plastic products versus their alternatives across 16 applications. These include key sectors such as packaging, construction, automotive, textiles, and consumer goods, which together account for 90 % of global plastic use. The findings reveal a counterintuitive reality: replacing plastics…

plastic waste for PPWR

PPWR Formally Adopted by The EU Council

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On 16th of December, the EU Council formally adopted the Package and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), aimed at reducing packaging waste and promoting sustainability. The rules set binding targets for re-use, restrict specific single-use packaging types, and require businesses to minimize packaging across its entire life cycle.   Safe, Sustainable, and Recyclable Packaging The regulation…

Advances in eco-friendly PET Alternatives

Advances in Eco-friendly PET Alternatives

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Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have achieved a breakthrough in developing eco-friendly alternatives to PET (polyethylene terephthalate) for packaging. By employing advanced metabolic engineering techniques, the team created a microbial strain capable of producing pseudoaromatic polyester monomers. These materials offer improved biodegradability and physical properties, presenting a promising solution…

plastic waste - Plastics Treaty Talks Halted, Set to Resume in 2025

Plastics Treaty Talks Halted, Set to Resume in 2025

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The Global Plastics Treaty’s negotiations under the 5th session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) have halted. While the session marked significant progress, unresolved issues indicate that further negotiations will be needed to create a comprehensive solution to the global plastic crisis.   Introduction to the UN Plastics Treaty The UN Plastics Treaty is an…

Global Policies Could Virtually Eliminate Plastic Pollution by 2040

Global Policies Could Virtually Eliminate Plastic Pollution by 2040

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While plastic pollution poses a significant environmental challenge, a new OECD report suggests that comprehensive global policies can reduce plastic leakage into the environment by 96 %, by 2040. These policies address the entire lifecycle of plastics, including production, use, and disposal. This balanced approach not only improves waste management and recycling but also reduces…

Germany Regulations on Food Contact Materials: Key Updates for 2024 - Paper food packaging

Germany Regulations on Food Contact Materials: Key Updates for 2024

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In August 2024, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) announced significant updates to its recommendations for materials and articles that come into contact with food. These changes, which apply to silicones, paper and board, specialized baking papers, and temperature-resistant coatings, are already in effect. While all five revised guidelines introduce noteworthy updates, the…

Piggy bank and money - eu recycling industry

EU Plastics Recycling Industry Faces Economic Downturn

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The European plastics recycling industry is faced with a significant recession. Challenges such as declining demand for European recyclates, reduced domestic investments, and an influx of imports with questionable recycled content claims, have placed immense strain on the sector. These pressures have driven many recycling companies to shut down in 2023, with more closures anticipated…