The future of plastic recycling: trends and predictions

• August 1, 2024

By 2032, the market for recycling waste plastic is projected to surge significantly to 23.7 million tons in India. We are also ranked 12th among the countries with mismanaged plastics. However, because of constant technological advancements, global policy developments, and changes in consumer behaviour, the future of plastic recycling is optimistic. With industries and consumers acknowledging the need for sustainability and reducing plastic waste, different trends are building momentum.

Some promising trends

1. Pyrolysis
This technique is used to convert plastic waste into valuable products like pyrolytic oil. It can be later refined into fuels such as gasoline and diesel. Potentially, it will increase the demand for second-life plastics. With more efforts to reduce energy use and emissions in pyrolysis plants, we can also promote a transition to a low-carbon economy.

2. Depolymerization
A chemical recycling technique, depolymerization has garnered major interest from startups and corporates. It refers to the process of breaking down complex plastic polymers into simpler monomers. Using this process, recyclers can uphold the quality of the recycled material, in order to increase the chances of its reuse. It is not only efficient but also has the ability to create a shorter recycling loop.

3. Advanced mechanical recycling
It stands out due to its sophisticated technologies to preserve and enhance the integrity of recycled plastics. Its precise sorting and purification technologies produce high-quality materials suitable for diverse manufacturing applications.

4. Automated recycling
Some of its key aspects include robotic sorting systems, AI-powered quality control and automated processing lines. This will lead to reduced operational costs, and better resource utilization, making the recycling process more efficient.

5. Recyclates
They are derived from recycled plastics used as raw materials to manufacture new products. With the ability to be processed into pellets, flakes, or fibres, they decrease the demand for new plastic materials. Their quality and usability are constantly being upgraded with the latest innovations in sorting and processing technologies, making them more competitive with virgin materials.

6. Plastic traceability
The ability to track and monitor the entire lifecycle of products yields a lot of advantages. It is possible to promote transparency and sustainability throughout the plastic supply chain, ultimately supporting the business model of the circular economy. That’s the simple definition of plastic traceability. It involves tracking and monitoring plastic materials from their origin through various stages of collection, processing, and recycling. During the process, transparent records for each stage of the plastic recycling process, using advanced digital technologies, such as blockchain. Using this tool, the product goes to its next traceability phase, only if the standards set by the regulator are met. All this happens without human intervention! These sustainably sourced materials are a symbol of sustainable sourcing which also helps gain customer trust.

Consumer behaviour shifts

Increasing awareness
Due to the health risks and global plastic pollution crisis, consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the repercussions of plastic waste, boosting demand for recycled plastic. They are choosing sustainable products made from recycled materials, strengthening the rPET market. Social media platforms, media coverage, and education campaigns stand out as key drivers behind this awareness.

Environmental regulations
With the implementation of stringent regulations such as The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, considerable steps are being taken to tackle and minimize waste generation. In light of this, various industries, including packaging and textiles are switching to rPET.

Corporate responsibility
There’s no deliberation that stakeholders must be aligned with consumer values for a better future. Now, consumers are looking forward to brands taking responsibility for the lifecycle of their products. This has encouraged many companies to opt for sustainable practices while integrating rPET into their supply chains to meet their environmental goals. In the wake of the same, Hindustan Unilever Limited has made clear commitments to make 100% of its plastic packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025. This shift is adding to the increased demand for rPET.

From advances and trends in recycling technology to shifts in consumer preferences, India is focusing on producing high-quality rPET and expanding its market potential. Textile fibre, strapping, and food and beverage bottle industries are responsible for the increased demand for rPET. Besides, Government initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and the Plastic Waste Management Rules are spreading awareness and changing the way they handle their plastic waste. These changes, together with our efforts, will help us build a more circular and resilient economy for future generations.