Recently, the research arm of Netherlands RaboBank published a research report that provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of the EU and United States markets. Demand for recycled plastics in the United States and the EU is growing due to United States regulations and corporate commitments, as well as EU-level regulations.

Europe is the global market leader for post-consumer recycled materials (PCR), accounting for more than half of PCR consumption, with United States in second place. The food and beverage industry absorbed two-thirds of PCR usage in 2021 and the demand for sustainable packaging is expected to increase further by 2026.

In the EU, the regulatory framework is the driving force behind increased interest in recycled materials. To meet the surge in demand in the future, significant investment in collection and recycling infrastructure is essential.

Europe accounts for 18% of global production of recycled plastics, second only to Asia. Despite a 17% increase in capacity in 2021, economic headwinds have led to reduced demand and prevented recycling facilities from being fully functional. The European Union's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) recycled content target is expected to provide much-needed growth momentum to the recycling industry.