Plastics Recyclers Europe (PRE) aims to provide an overview of the current state of plastic recycling in Europe with its report.

The report provides data and an evidence-based overview that highlights both existing capacities and critical gaps, according to PRE. The inventory is intended to serve as a strategic resource for the plastics value chain and stakeholders such as brand owners, processors, and policymakers, according to the European recycling umbrella organization PRE. The report, which is said to be based on extensive interviews, data collection, site visits, and analysis of literature and patents, examines mechanical, solvent-based, and chemical recycling in key material streams, including packaging, electrical and electronic equipment, end-of-life vehicles, and construction. A traffic light system classifies recycling technologies according to their degree of industrial acceptance. According to PRE, the results show that mechanical recycling remains the most established and widely used technology in Europe. Chemical recycling would be heading toward wider adoption. According to the report, solvent-based processes are evolving into industrial practice, with most initiatives in the pilot or early commercial stage. The report highlights efficient sorting as a key factor in improving the overall performance of recycling.
 
“This compendium shows how far we have come in our technological developments, but also where further innovation and investment are needed to keep Europe at the forefront of the transition to plastic circularity,” says PRE President Ton Emans.
 
Sources:

• Press release  PRE (3.2.2026)
• Image: © PRE