Progess after a year of change – Recycling International

Plastic scrap trade from Europe to non-OECD countries fell under the notification process from that date until 20 October when the European Commission updated regulation 1418/2007.

The most interesting development of 2021 which will change the shape of our plastics recycling industry is an acceptance of the concept of ‘carbon credit’ for every tonne of plastic that is recycled.

Ultimately, if it had not been settled, many experts would have considered the conference a failure.

After dragging their feet for six years, the negotiators have finally agreed on rules for cross-border trading, rules on old stocks and how to avoid double counting under Article Six.Carbon credits will change the shape of our recycling industry because currently only plastics valuable enough to cover the cost of collection and segregation are collected for recycling.

The proposal is to consider gradually restrict or end exports unless the importing country explicitly tells the EU it wants to receive the waste and has the required ability to treat waste.

To ensure waste shipments are ending up at the right recycling facilities, the European Commission also proposes to make exporters responsible for proving their export is sustainable.

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