Recycling amount of BPFRG members amounted to 660kt in 2013
According to the British Plastics Federation (BPF)'s 2013 Annual Return Survey, its Recycling Group (BPFRG) members increased the amount of recycling by 150 kiloton (kt) to a total of 660kt.
This annual survey obtained information and statistics on the total tonnage of plastics recovered by BPFRG members and is a critical instrument to better understand the dynamics of the plastics recycling sector.
It is estimated that, in the same year, the total amount of plastics mechanically recycled in the UK was around 900kt, including waste arising from packaging, construction, automotive, WEEE, houseware, sports, agriculture and other sectors.
"Challenging recycling targets which favor quantity over quality, and a flawed PRN system are still some of the key issues facing the industry. In addition, exports markets are now feeling the pressure too, with a challenging Chinese market and devaluated currency, which calls for a more resilient UK reprocessing sector," said BPFRG Chairman Roger Baynham.
"It is critical that we encourage and incentive the use of UK recycled plastics and invests in the infrastructure that will allow the UK to future proof markets for its plastics waste."