The EU wants to turn the circular economy into an industrial success model - but reality is lagging behind. In his presentation „Increasing PCR scarcity under the requirements of the PPWR“ at Future Resources 2025 in Cologne, Matthias Giebel, Partner at b+p Consultants, impressively demonstrates how large the gap is between political aspirations and the actual availability of recycled materials.

Giebel describes how the Packaging Ordinance PPWR was intended as a central component of the European Green Deal: as proof that the circular economy can work - ecologically and economically. But the goal is in danger of failing. According to Giebel, even on optimistic assumptions, Europe will produce around one million tonnes too few recyclates by 2030 to meet the prescribed use quotas.

Using market data and interviews with industry representatives, he illustrates that the industry has long been confronted with a massive „recyclate bottleneck“: mechanical recycling plants are under pressure, chemical processes have so far only delivered „homeopathic quantities at homeopathic prices“. Investments in new capacities are being postponed or cancelled - even though the political framework and financing options are actually available.

Giebel emphasises that time is running out to act: Companies need to actively seek out material sources, collaborations and alternative materials now. Only those who react early can avoid future fines or reputational damage - and utilise the PPWR's opportunities for innovation and new business models.

The presentation is a recording of Future Resources 2025 - organised by Interzero and packaging journal in cooperation with interpack.