Global Scans · Plastics · Weekly Summary

• [New] The Circular Economy for Plastics proposed a Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation effective as of 2025 (Regulation 2025/40, 2024) that requires all packaging (including plastic) to be recyclable or reusable by 2030, and to set recycled content targets for plastics. Scientific Advice Mechanism
• [New] By the year 2032, any single-use plastic that comes into [California] must either be recyclable, compostable. Wbur
• [New] Regulation 2025/40 establishes minimum post-consumer recycled-content requirements for several plastic packaging categories from 2030, so converters need qualified recycled material that can meet mechanical, visual and food-contact specifications. FactMr
• [New] The biggest hurdle for producers is cutting plastic use 25% by 2032 - which state regulators say will require redesigning packaging and shifting toward reusable products, such as dishes at restaurants and paper-based packaging for produce. CALmatters
• [New] New EU packaging laws set for 2030 will ban single-use plastic packaging for most fresh produce under 1.5 kg and require 10% of most drinks to be sold in reusable containers, with takeaway businesses required to offer a reusable option from 2028. Impakter
• [New] Plastic production worldwide has doubled since 2000 and is forecast to triple by 2060. Chicago Tribune
• [New] Plastic packaging must meet mandatory post-consumer recyclate thresholds starting in 2030. Sunhat
• A protein-rich cookie made from plastic and agricultural waste could help solve two serious problems facing future generations. New Atlas
• Packaging must be readily recyclable or compostable by 2030, and all single-use plastic packaging must be reduced by at least 25% by 2030. FlexPackVoice
• As we move beyond the 2026 regulatory threshold, the transition to a circular economy plastic supply chain will define the leaders of the next decade. Healix
• The white paper, Microplastics: Preparing for Australia's Next Regulatory Shift, highlights evidence global plastic production now exceeds 450 million tonnes per year and could almost triple to 1.2 billion tonnes under a business-as-usual scenario. EurekAlert!
• Asia Pacific: Asia Pacific is expected to witness strong growth due to rapid industrialization, increasing plastic consumption, and expanding waste management requirements. Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence
• Deposit and Return Systems: Member States must collect 90% of single-use plastic beverage bottles and metal cans separately by 2029, primarily through mandatory Deposit and Return Systems. Eurofins Scientific

Last updated: 07 September 2026