Virginia Janssens, Managing Director at Plastics Europe said:
“While we welcome the Parliament’s call for a 20% recycled target in new vehicles, we believe that the Commission’s proposal of 25% is not only achievable but essential.
A 25% target would help create the market pull essential for a thriving circular economy, but reaching it requires urgent action: clear policies that attract investment in circular plastics, cut red tape, and ensure a global level playing field for European industry.
Moreover, we are concerned by the exclusion of bio-based plastics from the End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation (ELVR) targets. This is a missed opportunity. A future-proof policy framework must recognise the role of plastics made from sustainable sources, such as bio-based feedstocks.
To prioritise recycling, we recommend limiting the contribution of bio-based and carbon capture–based plastics to no more than 5% of the overall target; a balanced approach we hope to see reflected in the final legislation.
Today, plastics from biomass make up just 1% of material use by converters1, largely due to high costs and weak policy support. The solution? Smart, targeted incentives to unlock sustainable and circular plastics, including bio-based plastics, at scale.
We urge legislators to seize this opportunity and deliver a regulation that drives investment and ensures that Europe remains a leader in sustainable mobility and materials.”
Notes for Editors
Plastics Europe is the pan-European association of plastics manufacturers with offices across Europe. For over 100 years, science and innovation have been the DNA that cuts across our industry. With members producing over 90% of all polymers across EU27+3 (Norway, Switzerland, UK) we are the catalyst for the industry with a responsibility to openly engage with stakeholders and deliver solutions which are safe, circular and sustainable. We are committed to implementing long-lasting positive change.
1 – According to Circular Economy for Plastics – A European Analysis 2024.
Press Contact
Cecilia Koshiikene
Senior Manager, Media Relations & Digital Strategy
cecilia.koshiikene@plasticseurope.org