EuPC – the EU-level trade association of European plastics converters - has announced the results of its latest survey on the use of recycled polymers by plastics converting companies in Europe. The 2019 survey - the association’s third - was conducted from September to December 2019 by Polymer Comply Europe on behalf of the trade association.
According to EuPC, while the performance of all reviewed recycled polymers increased compared to the previous two years, overall, the quantitative supply situation worsened. Only two out of the 10 reviewed recycled polymers – PS and PET – showed an improvement in both areas.
The survey clearly revealed that lot-to-lot consistency and aesthetics remain the primary barriers to a larger use of recycled polymers.
Some 28% of respondents indicated they did not use recycled polymers. 65% stated they could not use them because the specifications of their products prohibit such use, while 41% said regulatory requirements and feedstock insecurities prevent them from using recycled polymers. This is largely the case for food contact applications and well as products manufactured for healthcare and medical purposes.
The full report on the results of the 3rd survey on the use of recycled polymers by plastics converters in Europe will be available at the beginning of March.