The workshop aims to provide a dedicated platform for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to discuss the latest advances, challenges, and opportunities in the mechanical recycling of plastics.
By bringing together experts from various disciplines, we seek to foster meaningful dialogue on improving recycling efficiency, preserving material properties, and developing scalable, environmentally responsible solutions. Engaging the scientific community in this discussion is essential to drive innovation, influence policy, and promote the transition toward a more circular plastics economy.
Facts and figures on recycling
Providing an overview of global and regional data, current capabilities, and future targets in plastic recovery and reuse
Mechanical recycling and upcycling
With a focus on strategies to not only recover but also enhance material value through improved processing and formulation
Compatibilization of multi-materials
Addressing one of the major technical barriers in recycling complex plastic waste streams, and exploring advances in additives, processing techniques, and formulation strategies
Recycling process sustainability
Evaluating the environmental and energy impacts of mechanical recycling, and identifying opportunities to reduce the overall footprint through process optimization and lifecycle assessment
Recycling of biopolymers
Exploring the specific challenges and opportunities associated with the recovery, reprocessing, and upcycling of bio-based and biodegradable polymers, with attention to material stability, contamination, end-of-life scenarios, and their integration into sustainable circular plastic value chains.
Industrial implementation and market uptake
Focusing on the transition from research to real-world applications, this section will explore scale-up, quality standards, certification, regulation, and market acceptance of recycled polymers in high-value products.
This workshop encourages open discussion on these pressing issues and aims to inspire new partnerships, research directions, and practical strategies for integrating mechanical recycling into sustainable materials management. By connecting the scientific community with industry and policymakers, we can accelerate progress and contribute meaningfully to solving one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time.