In an urgent appeal to politicians, the European plastics value chain has warned of the consequences of the ongoing crisis in the industry. In a joint statement, leading associations present six strategic recommendations to ensure competitiveness and avert the threat of plant closures.
The push was triggered by a sharp decline in production and increasing competitive disadvantages compared to global markets. For example, plastics production in Europe fell by 8.3 per cent in 2023, while the global market share has shrunk from 22 to 12 per cent since 2006. Almost one million tonnes of recycling capacity have already been lost due to closures.
Six demands on EU policy
The associations are calling for decisive countermeasures: Robust measures against cheap imports, better framework conditions for investments in recycling infrastructure, targeted tax incentives and fair access to affordable energy are urgently needed. There are also demands for clear rules in the extended producer responsibility (EPR), which should reward recyclability and the use of recyclates, as well as standardised enforcement of EU regulations in all member states.
According to the signatories, without swift action, there is a risk of further plant closures, job losses and the loss of decades of investment in innovation and the circular economy. This would not only jeopardise the future of the industry, but also the achievement of the European climate and circular economy goals.
Broad alliance of supporters
The co-signatories include numerous European umbrella organisations such as Plastics Europe, Plastics Recyclers Europe, EuRIC, FEAD, CEFLEX and VinylPlus. The initiative is also supported by national organisations such as bvse (Germany), TecPart, Swedish Recycling Industries and the Hungarian plastics association MMSZ.
Source: Petcore Europe
