Europe Joins Global Plastics Pact Network

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The European Plastics Pact has become the first regional pact to join the global plastics pact network by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. By doing so, the European governments and companies within the region have reiterated their commitment to work towards recyclability and sustainability goals set for 2025.

Accordingly, all the 81 signatories of the European Plastics Pact have agreed to stick to the commitment that all plastic packaging and single-use plastic products placed on market will be reusable wherever possible. By 2025, all such products will be 100% recyclable. In addition, the members have committed to reduce use of virgin plastic products and packaging by at least one-fifth by weight.

The 2025 target also promises 25% jump in collection, sorting and recycling facilities, thus meeting the market demand levels. It also commits to increased use of recycled plastics in new products. All companies are required to achieve an average of at least 30% recycled plastic by weight.

The progress will be monitored and reported every year. A secretariat will keep track of the results.

The pact has been initiated by the French Ministry of the Ecological and Solidarity Transition, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and the Danish Ministry of Environment and Food, with support from WRAP.