Plastics recycling was the main topic of the October Sustainable Plastics Live program. Karen Laird gave an update on chemical recycling project and talked about challenges that all recyclers face right now, including high energy costs, sluggish demand and competition from low-cost virgin resins. She discussed policies that could help, including container deposits and taxes on virgin polymers.
Looking into the future, she said “demand is going to have to pick up” because of looming circularity targets, both mandated and voluntary.
Laird and Don Loepp also discussed Plastics News’ Notable Leaders in Sustainability special report, which is coming in November, and they encouraged viewers to nominate worthy candidates.