Bipartisan Support for the Accelerating a Circular Economy for Plastics and Recycling Innovation Act of 2024

This legislation comes at a critical time when inconsistent recycling practices across over 9,000 jurisdictions in the U.S. create confusion and hinder effective waste management. If enacted, the bill would empower the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to create unified recycling standards and mandate that plastic packaging contains at least 30% recycled content by 2030. Additionally, it would require a lifecycle assessment of materials to evaluate their carbon impact and emissions, thereby guiding future policy decisions. The EPS-IA argues that this bill would not only provide regulatory certainty for businesses but also boost job security and investment in recycling technologies, ultimately leading to higher recycling rates and reduced plastic waste.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• National Recycling Standards: The EPA would be tasked with establishing consistent recycling standards across the country.
• Recycled Content Requirement: A minimum of 30% recycled content in plastic packaging by 2030, with potential increases in future years.
• Lifecycle Assessments: The National Academy of Sciences would conduct assessments to compare the environmental impacts of various materials.
• Support for New Technologies: A legal framework would be created to encourage investment in innovative recycling technologies.

Industry Support and Implications

The EPS-IA emphasizes the significance of this bill for both large petrochemical companies and smaller downstream converters, highlighting its potential to transform the recycling landscape in the U.S. By setting clear national standards and improving recycling infrastructure, the legislation aims to incentivize private investment and foster a more sustainable approach to plastic waste management. The EPS-IA is actively encouraging industry stakeholders and the public to advocate for the passage of this pivotal legislation, underscoring its importance for a sustainable future.