The second day of the Advanced Recycling Conference (ARC) began in the morning with the topicfocused on “Markets, Investments and Funding” and provided valuable insights into the economic aspects of plastic recycling. The session was chaired by Gillian Tweddle (Stripe Consulting) with an engaging Q&A session moderated by Narendar Poranki (nova-Institute).

During the session on "Markets, Investment and Financing", experts examined Europe's position in this transformation. They highlighted that while European companies may struggle to compete with China in virgin polymer production, a strategic shift to advanced recycling could provide a competitive advantage. By using imported plastic waste as a feedstock for a new, circular chemical industry, Europe could establish itself as a leader in sustainable innovation, fostering resilience and economic growth in the sector.

Peter Jetzer (jrp collaboration promotion) opened the session with his presentation on “Price Dynamics and Market Development in the Plastic Recycling Industry.”

He addressed the challenges and opportunities within the plastic recycling industry, emphasizing: The price disparity between recycled and virgin plastics.
Structural barriers recyclers face to remain profitable under uncertain economic conditions. Jetzer presented best- and worst-case scenarios for future market trends based on research findings. He also invited participants to join the planned Market Price Study for a Price Index for Chemically Recycled Regranulates, aiming to provide much-needed guidance for pricing products made using advanced technologies.

Marc Spekreijse: Accelerating the Transition to a Circular Economy

Marc Spekreijse from the Circular Plastics NL (CPNL) foundation introduced the Dutch national funding program supporting the circular economy in the plastics sector. He pointed out the high revenues the Commission receives from the levy on non-recycled plastics, which is regulated differently in each Member State and is far higher than the additional costs of recycled plastics.Key points included: Tackling technological and material-related challenges to maintain competitiveness. The importance of adapting to evolving European and national regulations.
The program offers:
Subsidies for material and process innovations to reduce waste and improve the efficiency and quality of regranulates. Support for the research and development of new, more recyclable materials, replacing those difficult to process. Spekreijse highlighted practical examples of closed-loop systems, showcasing advancements toward achieving circular economy goals.

Jan-Willem Muller: Investing in Advanced Recycling Technologies

Jan-Willem Muller from Infinity Recycling discussed the importance of investing in proven technologies to create markets for end-of-life waste streams. Muller explained: How Infinity Recycling secures waste streams, stabilizes offtake agreements, and employs strategic pricing to drive both economic and environmental returns. The transformation of waste into chemical feedstock, enabling a circular economy. By investing strategically, Infinity Recycling delivers measurable financial and environmental benefits.

Gerben Hieminga: Economics of Recycling vs. CCS, Hydrogen, and Electrification

Gerben Hieminga from ING Group N.V. (the Netherlands) analyzed the economics of various solutions: Recycling fossil-based plastics with CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage) and electrification. Transitioning to non-fossil-based plastics using green methanol derived from hydrogen and biomass. In his presentation, Gerben Hieminga of ING Group N.V. (the Netherlands) stressed that developing more localised value chains could be an effective solution to reduce dependence on and pressure from international markets. Hieminga’s presentation covered: The cost and emissions profiles of these technologies. Actions stakeholders can take to promote these approaches and achieve sustainability goals.

The session showcased diverse perspectives and highlighted the importance of innovation, investment, and regulatory adaptation for advancing the plastic recycling industry. Presentations by Peter Jetzer, Marc Spekreijse, Jan-Willem Muller, and Gerben Hieminga were thought-provoking and offered valuable insights for the future of the circular economy.

  Marc Spekreijse     Jan-Willem Muller    Gerben Hieminga

The comprehensive conference report on the current status and planning prospects:

Advanced Recycling: Innovative Improvements and New Technologies – a Promising Investment Sector for Europe. Almost 270 delegates attended the Advanced Recycling Conference (ARC) in Cologne on 20-21 November 2024 - the leading advanced recycling conference in Europe.