Lorax EPI December Digest
Chemical Recycling Policies Shaping the Future
This blog from Verity A. dives into how the world is embracing chemical recycling to tackle plastic waste that traditional methods can’t handle. This innovative technology is gaining momentum as countries invest in policies and infrastructure to scale its use. In Europe, the EU is driving growth with increased investments and ambitious recycling targets, while the UK and Germany explore regulatory frameworks and advanced projects to support adoption. In the US, states are classifying chemical recycling as manufacturing to encourage innovation, and in APAC, Singapore and Australia are leading efforts to integrate chemical recycling into their waste management systems.
Get to Know Your Green Claims: How to Avoid Greenwashing in a Changing Legislative Landscape
Siân Lee discusses how the EU is taking action to address misleading environmental claims, with the Green Claims Directive set to establish clear standards for substantiating claims about packaging recyclability and sustainability. Studies show that over half of green claims in the EU are vague or misleading, emphasizing the need for regulation to prevent greenwashing and ensure consumer trust. The new directive will require verifiable evidence for claims, prohibit non-credible symbols, and encourage transparency in sustainability labelling.
2024 – A Transformative Year for Lorax EPI
This year, we moved into stunning new office spaces, celebrated our 10th anniversary with a spectacular summer event, and expanded our team to meet growing global demand for EPR compliance solutions. We also made waves at 21 international conferences, sharing expertise and building stronger connections with clients and partners. To top it all off, we achieved record-breaking sales, setting the stage for an ambitious and exciting 2025. Thank you to our dedicated team, clients, and partners for making 2024 a year to remember.
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Key News Stories
EU Initiates Infringement Procedure Against Spain - The European Commission has launched an infringement procedure against Spain over its mandatory food labelling requirements. These national rules, which mandate additional labelling for certain products, are being reviewed for potentially conflicting with EU single market principles by creating barriers to the free movement of goods across member states. This action highlights the importance of harmonized standards across the EU to ensure a level playing field for businesses and maintain the integrity of the single market.
EU Council Approves new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) - The European Council has signed off on ground-breaking measures to reduce waste and boost the recyclability and reusability of packaging across the EU. These new regulations set targets for recyclable packaging, promote reuse systems for businesses, and aim to curb unnecessary waste. Key highlights include: Reduced Packaging (with a focus on plastic) Waste. Phasing out unnecessary materials and a push for usage or recycled content. Increased Recycling Rates: Ensuring all packaging is recyclable in practice and design by 2030. Mandatory Reusability Targets: Businesses will need to adopt standardized reusable packaging systems. The next step will mark the official publication of the Regulations.
Progress on the Global Plastics Treaty: Negotiations Collapse - The UN’s ambitious goal to end plastic pollution faced a critical moment at the recent INC-5 negotiations in Busan, Korea. Despite extensive talks, no final agreement was reached, as deep divisions remain between the 85-nation high-ambition coalition and a smaller bloc of countries opposing binding targets to reduce virgin plastic production. The stakes are high, with the UN estimating that plastic pollution could be cut by 80% by 2040, saving $4.5 trillion. While no date has been set for the next round of talks (INC 5.2), UNEP remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of bridging gaps and pursuing a strong, impactful treaty.
Defra extends WEEE regulation to include online marketplaces - The UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has expanded the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations to include online marketplaces, requiring them to take responsibility for the recycling costs of products sold within the UK. This follows a joint consultation and aims to ensure fairness by holding overseas producers accountable for recycling their products. While the changes will not take effect immediately, it is expected they will be fully implemented by 2026. Additionally, the government is urged to improve kerbside collection for WEEE.
Stay updated on the latest EPR developments!
Company Updates
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year - Wrapped up in festivities! Our offices will be closed December 25th and 26th, with a limited number of staff working during this festive period.
Looking ahead to 2025 - With 2025 approaching, significant changes are on the horizon for the EPR landscape. If you have any questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Bi-annual Webinars - Thank you to those who attended our recent bi-annual webinars, our next sessions will be in June and will cover the first 6 months of 2025, get in touch for more information.