Public Comments Urge EPA to Keep Chemical Recycling Classified as Incineration
Plastic Recycling | 2026-05-26 05:27:14
As per expert estimates, plastic waste generation is feared to nearly triple by 2060 compared with 2019 levels.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): More than 27,000 public comments have been submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), urging the agency to maintain strict regulation of “chemical recycling” technologies such as pyrolysis under the Clean Air Act.
The EPA had proposed a rule that would reclassify pyrolysis and similar processes by removing them from incineration regulations. The campaign, led by PIRG, Environment America, and Environmental Action, opposes this rule.
Environmental advocates claim that “chemical recycling” is nothing but a rebranding of plastic incineration. Unlike traditional recycling, these processes typically do not convert plastic waste back into new plastic products or reduce demand for virgin plastic production, they said.
Critics warn that pyrolysis facilities can emit up to 96 different toxic air pollutants, including chemicals linked to cancer and other serious health risks. If the EPA proceeds with reclassification, these facilities could be exempt from federal air pollution limits.
As per expert estimates, plastic waste generation is feared to nearly triple by 2060 compared with 2019 levels.
According to various advocacy groups, the long-term solution to the problem lies in reducing plastic production and limiting single-use plastics.
POLL
Why are groups opposing EPA’s proposed rule?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the EPA proposing?
The EPA proposed reclassifying pyrolysis and similar technologies, potentially removing them from stricter incineration regulations under the Clean Air Act.
- Why are advocacy groups opposing the proposal?
They argue chemical recycling is essentially plastic incineration and does not meaningfully reduce plastic waste or virgin plastic production.
- What health risks are associated with pyrolysis?
Critics say facilities may emit up to 96 toxic air pollutants, including cancer-linked chemicals.
