Welcome to our Sustainable Insights Newsletter
Welcome to the Summer edition of Sustainability Insights.
Join us as we explore the latest developments in sustainability, highlighting real innovation in circular solutions. From emerging technologies to practical applications, we’ll share insights that help drive meaningful progress across the plastics and materials industry.
Sumika Unveils an “Extra Low Fogging” Recycled Polypropylene
Made from European post-consumer recycled materials, this glass-fibre reinforced polypropylene compound meets the particularly stringent requirements of headlamp housings applications.
Enosis®: Lactips’ Biodegradable Compounds for a Successful Sustainable Transition
Lactips has developed Enosis®, its range of biodegradable hybrid compounds designed to support the transition toward solutions that are less dependent on fossil-based plastics.
Plastribution parter with AO Recycling
Plastribution’s partnership with AO Recycling, part of AO – one of the UK’s leading and most trusted electrical retailers – brings high-quality recycled polymer pellets to the UK market through Plastribution’s distribution network.
AO Recycling’s materials might be the perfect solution if you’re looking to increase recycled content and improve sustainability within your products and supply chains.
Stay up to date with the latest developments shaping the plastics and polymers industry.
In this section, we share quick snapshots of key news, innovations, and sustainability updates that could impact materials, supply chains, and the wider market.
PFAS Restrictions in Packaging
Under PPWR, intentionally added PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in food-contact packaging will be prohibited from August 2026. Strict trace thresholds will apply, representing one of the most significant packaging compliance changes for manufacturers supplying the European market.
Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR)
Indicative eco-modulated pEPR fees for 2027 have been published, with fees ranging from £415 per tonne for GREEN-rated packaging to £545 per tonne for RED-rated packaging. The Producer Responsibility Organisation has now been appointed to advise PackUK, with further revisions to the Recycling Assessment Methodology expected in July 2026.
Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
The European Commission has published comprehensive guidance and FAQs on PPWR. Key measures include mandatory design-for-recyclability requirements, recycled content targets, reusability quotas and a ban on packaging formats deemed unnecessary. By 2030, all packaging must be recyclable, with packaging below 70% recyclability potentially prohibited.
Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT)
The Plastic Packaging Tax remains at £228.82 per tonne for packaging containing less than 30% recycled content. A public consultation on recycled content certification has now launched, while mass balance accounting for chemically recycled materials is expected to be permitted from April 2027. Pre-consumer waste will also be phased out as eligible recycled content.
Simpler Recycling
The next phase of Simpler Recycling is underway, with local authorities expected to collect six core recyclable waste streams and flexible packaging collections scheduled to begin by March 2027. Industry bodies have indicated confidence that councils will be ready to support flexible packaging collections on schedule.
Do you have any questions about PPT or other regulatory issues? Contact our Plastribution Technical Team for advice.
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