The campaign was launched by several organisations, including Zero Waste Europe and Plastics Recyclers Europe, with support from GreenDot Group. It aims to strengthen recycling capacity in Europe and promote the use of European waste streams in the production of secondary raw materials.
Strengthening the European recycling value chain
The Circular Plastics Made in Europe initiative seeks to ensure that plastics collected in Europe are processed and recycled within the region. By prioritising European waste streams and expanding recycling infrastructure, the campaign supports the development of a competitive and resource-efficient European circular economy.
The initiative also addresses the need to create functioning markets for recycled plastics. In addition to expanding recycling capacity, it highlights the importance of realistic recycled content targets and the integration of recycled materials into European industrial production.
These objectives correspond with broader policy developments in the European Union, including the proposed Industrial Accelerator Act. It aims to stimulate demand for low-carbon technologies and materials produced in Europe.
Regulatory framework and market implementation
According to Polymer Comply Europe, the transition towards circular plastics requires regulatory frameworks that are practical and implementable. Companies operating in the plastics value chain must adapt to evolving European legislation while maintaining supply security and competitiveness.
A well-functioning European recycling ecosystem is therefore considered essential for compliance with upcoming regulatory requirements. This includes recycled content obligations and transparency standards for supply chains. Reintegration of recycled plastics into European production processes can contribute to stabilising material supply. At the same time it can support innovation in the European plastics sector.
Circular plastics and European climate targets
Circular plastics are regarded as an important component of European climate and resource efficiency strategies. Alongside recycling, the concept of circularity also includes waste prevention, reuse and responsible resource management throughout the lifecycle of materials.
Polymer Comply Europe states that it supports solutions that enable the practical implementation of circular economy principles. Through activities related to regulatory compliance, product stewardship and sustainability strategy, the organisation works with industry stakeholders and policymakers to support the development of a circular plastics market in Europe.
