Today, European rules allow imported plastic waste to count toward EU recycled content targets.
This threatens local recycling jobs, undermines billions in investments, and weakens Europe’s circular economy.
We’re calling for a simple, fair fix: Only plastic waste generated in Europe (EU27+EFTA+UK) should count toward Europe’s recycling and recycled-content targets.
Europe has built strong recycling capacity and created more than 300,000 jobs. But imported waste is replacing plastics collected in Europe, leaving European recyclers without the materials they need.
If imported waste counts toward Europe's targets, Europe appears to be meeting its targets — while its own waste remains unprocessed. This is not true circularity.
Imported waste often comes with lower standards, lower costs, and less traceability. European recyclers deserve a fair market.
European waste streams are monitored, verifiable, and held to strict environmental rules. This keeps Europe’s recycling safe, transparent, and trustworthy.
Your voice can help shape the future of European recycling.
Support a fair, transparent system that prioritizes Europe-generated waste.
Add your organization’s name to a growing movement defending Europe’s recycling capacity.
Share, post, and advocate for a circular future made in Europe.
