News archive

Steinert will present updated and new sorting technologies at IFAT 2026 in Munich (Hall B6, Stand 451/552). The portfolio includes developments in aluminium sorting, AI-supported applications for PET recycling and solutions for processing construction and demolition waste as well as glass. In addition, the company will provide information on service concepts aimed at maintaining and optimising plant performance throughout the lifecycle.

Recycling Europe has commented on the ongoing policy discussions in Brussels regarding the definition of green steel. The organisation calls for a framework based on measurable and verifiable carbon intensity that reflects the role of circularity and the use of recycled metals in steel production. In this context, Recycling Europe raises concerns about the “sliding scale green steel” methodology currently under discussion among stakeholders.

At IFAT Munich 2026, around 50 startups will present technological developments for the environmental sector. In the Startup Area in Hall C4, international young companies will focus on applications for water management, recycling and the circular economy. Key technological approaches include artificial intelligence, sensor systems and bio-based processes, which are gaining relevance for material recovery and resource efficiency.

Specim, part of Konica Minolta, has introduced Specim RETEX, a hyperspectral textile recognition solution designed for material identification and automated separation in textile processing and recycling.

On 27 March, the European Commission convened the waste shipment expert group with representatives of EU Member States and industry stakeholders. The meeting took place two months before the 21 May 2026 deadline for new waste shipment rules and focused on the introduction of the digital waste shipment system (DIWASS) and transitional arrangements for Annex VII procedures.

The European Electronics Recyclers Association (EERA) has appointed Vanya Veras as Secretary General with effect from 1 April 2026. She succeeds Julie-Ann Adams, who concluded her term at the end of March after more than four years.

Aimplas is coordinating IRION, a European research and innovation project focused on establishing a circular green hydrogen value chain. The initiative addresses the increasing dependence on critical raw materials associated with the expansion of hydrogen technologies in Europe by developing strategies for recovery, reuse and reintegration of key materials.

The European Commission’s December 2025 Environment Omnibus package is not a complete solution for the recycling industry, but it is an important signal of direction. For companies active in end-of-life tire (ELT) recycling, plastic recycling, pyrolysis, recovered carbon black (rCB), and pyrolysis oil upgrading, the package is best understood as a first-step competitiveness reform: it promises faster procedures, lower administrative burden, and a clearer policy bridge toward the Circular Economy Act expected in 2026.
From an industry perspective, that is good news. But it is not enough.

With the new Sennebogen 835 G Hybrid, Ashvin Metals in Poulton-Le-Fylde, UK, has optimized its handling processes for non-ferrous metals. Thanks to increased reach, higher lifting capacity, and reduced fuel consumption, the new material handler delivers improved productivity in a compact work area – winning over both operators and management.

The European Commission has issued PPWR guidance to support the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). The document aims to ensure consistent application of the regulation across Member States and to facilitate compliance for economic operators.

Efficient and safe processes are essential in biomass utilization. With the involvement of GAP and the Italian distribution partner Cesaro Mac Import, the new Sennebogen 360 G tele-handler has been developed from a prototype to full series production.
GAP is part of the Piantoni Group, operates a fleet of over 780 machines, and specializes in logistics and handling processes across various industries.

Malta has introduced a central voucher validation platform within its deposit return scheme (DRS) to improve the security and traceability of voucher redemption processes. The system, developed by Sensoneo, is operated nationwide by BCRS Malta. It enables real-time validation of deposit vouchers, supports fraud prevention and establishes a cen-tralised framework for financial settlement across reverse vending machine (RVM) net-works and retail systems.