On 24th October 2024, the PRecycling project was presented during the workshop “Circular economy: Innovation and future in the plastic sector”, organised and hosted by the partner AIJU. The objectives and latest achievements of the project were highlighted by Phd. Ana Ibáñez, Project Manager at AIJU, in the context of the presentation entitled “Aseguramiento de la calidad y trazabilidad en el reciclado plástico. Resultado y avance PRecycling” [translation: Quality assurance and traceability in plastic recycling. Result and progress PRecycling].

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The event was focused on the promotion of sustainable practices within the plastics industry. Through various panels and conferences, experts in the field discussed the implementation of the circular economy as a key strategy to reduce environmental impact and improve resource efficiency in plastic production. The event also highlighted the importance of technological innovation and collaboration between companies to foster a more sustainable future. In addition, success stories and new trends transforming the sector are presented, offering attendees a clear and hopeful outlook on facing current environmental challenges.

 

PhD. Ibáñez's presentation emphasised how material traceability enhances the quality of recyclates, or materials that have transitioned from waste to raw materials for recycling, aligning with the European Commission's circularity strategy and all associated regulations. Regarding quality aspects, she underscored the importance of proper sorting of materials (such as polypropylene -PP-, polyethylene -PE-, polystyrene –PS, etc.), as well as the challenge of removing legacy additives—two methodologies are currently being researched within the PRecycling project—to meet the mechanical properties of the desired recycled product and adhere to the certifications and standards that ensure the quality of the final product.

 

Also various traceability systems, certifications, and research initiatives that are advancing this cause were highlighted. Remarkable mentions included Recyclass and standards, and research routes centred on physical trackers and markers, Blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and origin certification. All these research aspects aim to result in a final product that consumers can trust. The PRecycling project, jointly with other related projects such as the CIRCVET (training in Circular Economy) and the CircSyst project (Circular Systemic solutions in water, biowaste and packaging) was recognised as one of the key contributors to the circular mission, due to its significant involvement to developing innovative methodologies that ensure the quality of recycled materials in the home appliances, toys, and textiles sectors.

 

Continue following the PRecycling communication channels to stay updated on the latest project’s development and its participation in key events both at the EU and national levels.​​​​​

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