Europe produces over 58 million tons of plastic annually. Many plastic products are designed for single use such as packaging (which accounts for 40% of the plastic production) and only 30% of all plastic products is recycled. Reducing usage could decrease oil dependency and the emissions of greenhouse gases. EU Circular Economy Action Plan emphasizes on minimizing consumption and increasing reuse of plastic products and on developing technology and innovative designs that enable a wider recycling scope for plastic products. Companies such as Polysecure and Rehau manufacture products that enable tracing plastic polymers, widening the range of plastic products recyclables. The revised R2Pi legislative proposals establish an ambitious and credible long-term path for waste management and recycling. Among the objectives is a common EU target for recycling 75% of packaging and of 65% of municipal waste by 2030.
