On December 23, 2025, the European Commission released a draft implementing regulation proposing harmonized criteria to determine when plastic waste ceases to be waste and can be classified as a product, referred to as “plastic recyclate.” The initiative aims to strengthen the single market for secondary raw materials, reduce administrative burdens for recyclers, and promote the EU’s circular economy goals by ensuring a stable supply of high-quality recycled plastics. The draft is open for public feedback until January 26, 2026, and is scheduled to apply from July 1, 2026.
