Investing in Chemical Recycling: One important technology in the mix of solutions for plastics recycling in the EU.
The EU Commission’s approval to a €500 million aid scheme from the French government to support chemical recycling raises some important questions:
Will other EU countries need to follow France’s lead?
There could have been a more coordinated approach, EU-wide, to support innovation. Would the other EU member states have to introduce similar schemes to ensure their industries remain competitive with France?
Why only chemical recycling?
The fund targets a single technology, but plastics recycling needs a mix of solutions—mechanical, solvent-based, and chemical recycling. Wouldn’t a tech-neutral approach be more effective in tackling plastic waste holistically?
Does the industry rely too much on public funding?
Projects are being delayed or cancelled without subsidies. Should the focus be on making circular solutions more cost-effective?
Is PPWR not an incentive for the private sector investment?
The Commission approved the state-aid arguing that without public support, companies would not invest. But with PPWR implementation, isn’t this the new business opportunity?
The EU’s investment in recycling is crucial, but are we asking the right questions about how and where this support is directed?
