Associations representing the European plastics value chain are urging swift action to boost recycling, competitiveness and investment.

The associations Plastics Europe, Plastics Recyclers Europe (PRE) and European Plastics Converters (EuPC) welcome in a joint letter the relaunch of the Circular Plastics Alliance (CPA) as a crucial opportunity to advance the circularity targets for plastics in Europe once again. The associations call in their letter for concrete measures that should follow swiftly on the step announced by the European Commission as part of its proposals for the ‘boosting the circularity of plastics’ package of measures – a step that has now been taken – as well as the renewed political focus of the European Commission and the Member States. Against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions and fragile supply chains, the industry no longer views the establishment of a robust circular system merely as an environmental task. Rather, it was a strategic necessity to strengthen Europe’s economic security and autonomy. A functioning circular system for plastics was a cornerstone of the region’s industrial competitiveness.
 
The associations’ key demands include, for example, a significant reduction in energy costs as well as targeted incentives for investment in new circular technologies and infrastructure. Furthermore, “workable and appropriate” legislation and the consistent implementation of existing EU requirements were necessary to prevent fragmentation of the single market. Furthermore, the associations are pressing in particular for the removal of trade barriers and stricter controls on imports to ensure a level playing field. Finally, the industry advocates a technology-neutral approach that incorporates all available recycling solutions and removes financial barriers, so that innovation is no longer hindered. The associations also hold the Member States accountable: they must ensure that the circular economy is put into practice through national incentives and the consistent enforcement of EU rules. The industry warns that without the swift implementation of the announced measures, the necessary billions in investment in European sites could fail to materialise.
 
Sources:

• Press release from Plastics Europe, PRE, EuPC (8.4.2026)
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