Reflections on RECOUP’s plastic conference: Innovations and challenges in sustainability

Recycling charity RECOUP held a plastics conference which brought together industry leaders, advocates, and innovators to discuss the pressing issues surrounding sustainability and the future of plastics. The event, which took place in September, was packed with insightful discussions on the circular economy, regulatory frameworks, and collaborative efforts to reduce our plastic footprint. Thames21’s Aidan Hubbard and Luca Marazzi (L-R pictured left) attended the conference. Here, they shine a spotlight on the key takeaways from the event.

Morning Session Highlights
Flexible Plastic Fund and EPR Strategies
The day began with a session focusing on the Flexible Plastic Fund, where the first speaker outlined key strategies for mitigating Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) costs. The emphasis was on collecting accurate data, eliminating unnecessary packaging, and developing targeted strategies for packaging. These strategies are crucial as we move toward a more sustainable model that requires transparency and accountability.

Advocacy and Legislative Action
A compelling address by Ermis Panagiotopoulos, Head of Sustainability Advocacy EMEA, Indorama Ventures PCL, highlighted the success of European countries in enacting robust environmental legislation. This underscored the importance of advocacy in driving policy changes that promote sustainability. The need for coordinated standards across borders was a recurring theme, especially as companies navigate varying regulations with increased difficulty for UK companies after our exit from the European Union.

The Bigger Picture from SUEZ
Stuart Hayward-Higham is the Chief Technical Development and Innovation Officer at SUEZ recycling and recovery U. His presentation painted a stark picture of the UK’s waste management landscape. The country needs to reduce consumption by 60% to meet sustainability goals. With 67 million people generating significant waste in the UK, effective waste management strategies are essential. The speaker noted that 22 major pieces of legislation are poised to impact the plastics sector, emphasising the urgency for companies to adapt as change is imminent.

Retail Perspectives from Tesco
James Bull, Head of Packaging at Tesco, discussed the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), a vital standard for sustainable reporting. The speaker stressed the complexity of the global supply chain and the necessity of driving positive change amid the challenges of excessive packaging. It’s clear that while soft plastics serve essential functions, the industry must transition away from single-use models.

Industry Collaboration with Plastipak
Kinza Sutton from Plastipak echoed the need for increased collaboration within the industry. As a producer of PET packaging, Plastipak aims to recycle materials efficiently, yet it faces competition from alternatives like aluminium and glass. The ambition to reduce carbon emissions by 32% by 2032 hinges on better recycling practices and a united front among industry players.

Insights from Zero Waste Scotland
Stuart Murray, Head of Resource Management at Zero Waste Scotland, highlighted the stark reality that four-fifths of Scotland’s products are not recycled. With a corporate plan set to be released by the end of the year, there is hope for a structured approach to reducing waste and enhancing recycling efforts over the next five to six years.

Engaging Panel Discussions
The panel discussions allowed for dynamic exchanges on critical questions affecting the industry. Margaret Bates, a representative from DEFRA, raised questions about creating a level playing field with the EU, emphasising the need for standardised plastic materials. Discussions on mandatory labelling and the integrity of the plastics tax were also central to the dialogue, revealing the complexities of aligning industry goals with governmental policies.

Afternoon Session: The 4 R’s and Innovative Solutions
The afternoon sessions shifted focus to the 4 R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover. The first speaker Tony Breton from Novamont, introduced the Material Circularity Index (MCI), which aims to measure and improve the circularity of materials.

Community Engagement Projects
Gavin Ellis from Hubbub showcased community engagement projects that promote recycling through creative campaigns, making the act of sorting waste more engaging for the public. Initiatives like brightly coloured bins with catchy slogans can make a significant difference in how communities perceive and participate in recycling efforts.

Advances in Recycling Technology
Geoff Brighty from MURA Technology presented groundbreaking developments in recycling, emphasising the need for advanced chemical recycling technologies to ensure the circular economy can function effectively. He also highlighted the challenges posed by littering and pollution, and the necessity for infrastructure upgrades to accommodate new technologies.

Addressing Consumer Needs
The final speakers focused on understanding consumer needs in the context of sustainability. Questions about whether consumers should have choices in sustainable products or be guided towards the most eco-friendly options sparked a rich discussion. It’s crucial for industries to provide options while educating consumers on the importance of sustainability.

Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the conference wrapped up, it was evident that while progress is being made in the realm of sustainable plastics, significant challenges remain. The urgency for collaboration across sectors, the need for cohesive policies, and the importance of consumer education were underscored throughout the sessions and discussions between panellists and the wider audience.

The path to a more sustainable future for plastics hinges on collective action — by industries, governments, and consumers alike. With innovations emerging and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of plastics, the potential for a circular economy is within reach. However, it will require sustained effort and commitment from all stakeholders to achieve this objective.
In moving forward, let’s embrace the insights gained from this conference and work together to create lasting change in our approach to plastics and sustainability.