The packaging industry is bracing itself for a new set of Europe-wide recycling targets set to be published soon. A document recently leaked showed that the EC could set ambitious targets. In proposals that were at draft stage, 80% of packaging would need to be recycled by 2030, with an interim target of 60% by 2020 and 70% by 2025. Individual targets for materials could also rise sharply. By 2020, recycling targets for plastic could be 45%; 70% for steel and glass; and 85% for other metals and board. By 2025, plastic packaging could face a recycling target of 60%; 80% for steel and glass; and 90% for other metals and paper. The finalised proposals will be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers August 2014. According to Jane Bickerstaffe from Incpen, the targets were not finalised and likely to be changed.
