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The Enterprise Europe Network informs:
23.12.2025
The European Commission has presented a new package of measures to accelerate Europe's transition to a circular economy - with a particular focus on the plastics sector. The aim is to strengthen the competitiveness of the industry, increase economic security and significantly reduce CO₂ emissions.
Key points of the package:
- Pilot measures for the plastics sector: harmonization of rules for recycled plastics, introduction of EU-wide end-of-waste criteria and new specifications for the recyclate content of PET bottles.
- Market integration and fair competition: New customs codes for recycled plastics and increased market surveillance are intended to prevent unfair competition.
- Investment and innovation: Support from the European Investment Bank and national banks, as well as pilot projects for trans-regional circular economy centers.
- Consultations: Public feedback on the new legislation by January 2026 and on the evaluation of the Single-Use Plastics Directive by March 2026.
Why is this important?
According to the EU's Joint Research Center, circular solutions could reduce emissions from the plastics sector by up to 45% and improve the balance of trade by €18 billion annually by 2050. The Commission also plans to relaunch the Circular Plastics Alliance and present a comprehensive Circular Economy Act in 2026.
Source: European Commission