GPT Circular and iQRenew have finalized quality and specification criteria for the use of Australian soft plastics in global advanced chemical recycling – a move set to keep contamination low, ensure efficient processing, and result in food-grade packaging materials.
Described as a ‘landmark agreement’, the collaboration aspires to set new industry benchmarks that result in high-quality recycled materials in line with global industry standards; bolster the efficiency and viability of advanced chemical recycling in Australia; and position the country at the forefront of sustainable waste management.
At iQRenew’s Soft Plastics Engineered Commodity (SPEC) facility, a combination of sorting, washing, and quality control processes remove food residues, inks, adhesives, and other contaminants. This is set to result in ‘only the highest-quality materials’ that meet the purity demands of chemical recycling and overcome ‘one of the biggest barriers in plastic recycling’.
The development is considered a ‘crucial step forward’ for Australian retailers and brands, as it is expected to unlock food-grade recycled plastic. Similarly, it is anticipated to benefit the advanced chemical recycling industry in Australia, keep valuable resources out of landfill and within a circular economy, and lower the environmental impact of soft plastics.
“Without stringent contamination control, soft plastics cannot reach their full recycling potential,” explained GPT Circular CEO Toby Manners. “The groundbreaking work being done at iQRenew’s SPEC facility, particularly with the SPEC process, is revolutionizing the way we process and repurpose plastic waste.
“For the first time, Australian businesses can integrate high-quality, recycled plastics into their packaging solutions, reducing their reliance on virgin materials while supporting a truly circular economy. This is a significant win for sustainability, innovation, and consumer demand for environmentally responsible packaging.”
“Establishing these quality and specification standards is a game-changer for soft plastics recycling,” added Danial Gallagher, CEO of iQRenew. “By ensuring a consistent high-quality standard of input materials, we can maximise the success of chemical recycling and enable a pathway to a sustainable future.”
Late last year, ICIS Plastics Recycling analyst Joshua Dill told us how a lack of suitable guidelines and legislation could grind the chemical recycling industry to a halt. Yet, chief news correspondent Tom Brown also explained how economic pressures and the challenge of recycling certain plastics are stalling mechanical recycling, suggesting that chemical recycling could eventually bridge the gap.
In other news, the European Commission has approved a €500 million scheme to support chemical recycling that converts mixed and/or contaminated plastic waste back into ‘virgin-like’ raw materials. This will encompass trays, films, non-beverage bottles and textile materials with a certain amount of polyester content and intends to align with the Commission’s priorities for 2024-2029 based on the Political Guidelines, which call for a more circular and resilient economy.
If you liked this story, you might also enjoy:
Reuse vs. single use – which is better for the environment?
Sustainable Innovation Report 2025: Current trends and future priorities
What can the world learn from South Korea’s world-leading performance in plastics circularity?
No comments yet