Author Archive

The RECOUP Summit – A Resounding Success

News
Posted: 15/05/2025

The RECOUP Summit – A Resounding Success

The inaugural RECOUP Summit, sponsored by WRAP and Ecosurety, held on the 30 April in Leeds, was a resounding success. It reconfirmed the need for more innovation and collaboration with industry and government support to ensure we deliver on the promise of a plastic circular economy. Focused on developments in technology that will help to drive improvements in the plastics recycling and resource efficiency value chain, the event hosted attendees from across the plastics value chain with an exciting line up of speakers based across focused breakout rooms in the morning and a collaborative session in the afternoon.

 

The morning kicked off with a focused session on advanced recycling technologies, where speakers including Geoff Brighty from Mura Technology,  Emmeline Aves of ReVentas, and Sam Pine from Greyparrot, shared tangible examples of innovation transforming the sector and facilitating the circular economy. Hearing about a variety of available solutions including low carbon dissolution recycling, scalable chemical recycling approaches and AI-based waste intelligence tools the message was clear: technology is available now – but its deployment depends on supportive infrastructure, policy alignment, and commercial investment.

Another breakout session zeroed in on food contact packaging, exploring how innovation is enhancing recycled content in high end applications. Speakers for this session included Jeremy Blake from Amcor, David Bargery from Regis Machinery, and Paul Marshall from Nextek, who highlighted the industry’s regulatory, legislative, and cost hurdles. The session honed in on solutions for producing food grade recycled polypropylene (PP), the removal of contaminants from recycled materials and solutions for converting films back into food-grade material.. This session made it clear that with the right technologies and collaborative effort, we can break down existing barriers taking higher levels of food contact recycled content from aspiration to reality.

In the final breakout session, the conversation turned to the role of data in the circular economy  – its power, its gaps, and its role in delivering a true circular economy. Sophie Walker from Dsposal, Rachel Warren from Re-universe, and Will Addy from Polytag, came together to highlight the need for good data, stressing how upcoming legislation and new targets require data from the sector to benchmark delivery and progress. It was very apparent throughout the session that inefficient data gathering systems and inaccurate data can hamper progress, however, with effective and accurate data we can make better and more informed choices that play a huge role in delivering a circular economy for plastics and packaging materials.

The day culminated in a dynamic collaborative session led by Robbie Staniforth (Ecosurety), where panellists including Liz Wildman (MARS), Steve Walsh (TOMRA), James Donaldson (Sortology), Angela Doyle (Robinson Packaging), and Paul Mayhew (MBA Polymers). The panel tackled some of the sector’s thorniest issues: infrastructure gaps, technical limitations, greenwashing, and the reality of consumer engagement. The panel called for smarter packaging design, investment into system resilience, and the need to make recycled plastics commercially viable. However, it was also noted that real progress requires more than individual action, reinforcing the importance of joined-up action across industry, government, and innovators, backed by clear policy signals, targeted funding, and infrastructure investment. If we come together to bridge gaps and technical challenges across industry we can allow the plastic circular economy to flourish.

 

The RECOUP Summit underscored the critical need for aligned innovation, policy, and investment to drive meaningful progress in plastics recycling and the circular economy. By bringing together voices from across the value chain, the event not only highlighted current challenges but also showcased tangible solutions already shaping the future. As collaboration deepens between stakeholders, and with continued support from government and industry alike, we move closer to realising a truly circular and sustainable system for plastics.

Recyclability Assessment Methodology

News
Posted: 08/05/2025

Recyclability Assessment Methodology

Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) – Introduction

The Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) will evaluate packaging to ensure that it can be recycled and transformed into new products. All packaging that is placed on the UK market and reported as household waste in 2025 will be reviewed using details on the RAM. From 2026, modulated fees will be applied accordingly to each packaging format.

Packaging will be rated as either green, amber or red. Green suggest that the packaging has a recognised path for collection, sorting and recycling and will have lower fees applied than less recyclable materials, which will be rated amber or red. Producers will need to report their data from October 2025 with fees being applied from 2026 onwards.

 

RAM v1.1  – Observations

Following work and consultations during 2024, an initial draft copy of the RAM was released in December 2024. At this point, DEFRA listened to some of the comments from RECOUP, from RECOUP members, and from other organisations.

There then followed an initial launch to trade bodies of a draft final version on 8th April 2025, then the most recent version of the DEFRA Ram was released on 28th April 2025. Comparing the most recent releases; no significant changes to anything in the ‘plastics’ sections, from the draft version 1.1 which we had seen, and the final 28 April version. Minor changes include the removal of the ‘boxes’ around the items marked for ‘2025 assessment’, which now form part of the main text.

However, there are more than a few outstanding queries and questions, which we have communicated to DEFRA, on the latest version.

One pressing issue is the materials or combinations which have been removed from the RAM for ‘2025 assessment’. This means that the following are now deemed acceptable: the comparison is with RECOUP Recyclability By Design guidelines (RBD) for plastic packaging recyclability:

 

Attached label or sleeve over 40% (bottle) 60% (PTTs) of surface area

  • Amber in RBD

 PET trays with PE seal layer

  • Red in RBD

 HDPE items with fillers eg. Talc, CaCO3

  • Red in RBD

 Attached labels or sleeves comprised of paper

  • Amber in RBD

Of the comments submitted by RECOUP following the initial ‘version 1’, we were pleased that DEFRA accepted some RECOUP recommendations, including;

 

–              RAM classifies any PET pot/tub/tray with anti-blocking agents as amber – rendering basically any tray manufacturers entire portfolio as amber!

RECOUP shows de-nest in Green column, Anti-block in centre column. Anti-block in the masterbatch is acceptable. We have a statement to this effect written for us by Faerch.

This instruction was removed from RAM v1.1

 

–              RAM states “if an item of packaging or component contains any of the following it is classified as red: attached label adhesives which are not removable in an 80°C hot wash”

This is too generalised. Protocols show different polymers react differently. For example: PET Bottles recommendation is 70°C – 90°C. For flexibles, both PP and PE, the recommendation is 40°C.

This instruction was removed from RAM v1.1

 

However, outstanding queries as yet unanswered by DEFRA include;

 

Flexible

–              Specific barrier layers (SiOx, AlOx etc.) removed from ‘red’ list. Although OK in small quantities, this omission may result in higher quantity used, which the recycling industry may find difficult to cope with. The list of barrier layers needs some research but should be re-introduced, possibly as ‘Amber’ with a note concerning maximum quantity.

–              Polyolefin film – minimum 80% PO mono- reduced from minimum 90% PO mono. “Any….. below this threshold are classified as red.” No indication of the % required for classifying as ‘green’ or classifying as ‘amber’

 

Rigid

–              ‘Inks that bleed’ removed. This is a fundamental of all recyclability guidelines. We are aware of new technology – washable inks – in development; is this the reason?

 

 

Conclusion

We are unsure where DEFRA obtained information to make some of the changes. This obviously did not come from the recycling industry.

RECOUP remain open to discussion with DEFRA regarding the queries above. We talk with both The BPF and OPRL regularly to ensure we are in agreement.

 

 

Recyclability Guidelines

The RAM does not replace recyclability guidelines. The RAM was written as an instrument to enable fees to be charged for packaging.

 

RBD is produced by talking to members; and accept the advice from recyclers on what happens now. This is what makes it different to other instruments which look at what might happen with new ‘state of the art’ equipment in a few years.

 

For any help or advice please contact Paul East at paul.east@recoup.org

RECOUP Members site visit to Sherbourne Recycling 29 May

Events
Posted: 09/04/2025

RECOUP Members site visit to Sherbourne Recycling 29 May

May 29, 10:30 – 12:30

RECOUP are offering members the opportunity to visit Sherbourne Recycling new state of the art materials recycling facility which combine the use of robotics and optics to separate materials.

Sherbourne Recycling

Automation, flexibility and sustainability

Who are we and how did we get here?

• Sherbourne Recycling was established in 2021, but the journey started way back in 2016

• Mandated to develop, operate, and maintain a new state of the art materials recycling facility in Coventry

• Partnership of eight local authorities makes up the company structure

Design solution

• Technologically advanced solution, highly automated and innovative state of the art facility designed and manufactured by Machinex

• Integrates artificial intelligence at the core of its system that allows real-time interconnectivity between the main sorting equipment

• Adaptability to evolve with minimal input

• Designed to process fully commingled DMR

Taking the next step

• Film extraction present at almost every step of the material sorting process, allowing

Sherbourne’s MRF to be the first of its kind to positively extract flexible films in its input streams

Find out more

New Categories Announced for The RECOUP Awards 2025 – Submit Your Entries Now!       

Events
Posted: 05/03/2025

New Categories Announced for The RECOUP Awards 2025 – Submit Your Entries Now!       

Entries are now open for The RECOUP Awards 2025, recognising outstanding achievements in plastics resource efficiency and recycling, contributing towards a more circular plastics value chain. With new categories added for 2025, the awards aim to recognise and celebrate the innovative and inspiring projects and initiatives that have helped to drive the industry forward and lead to a more sustainable future.

The awards are FREE to enter with entries welcome from all relevant organisations and individuals looking to be recognised for their work and initiatives under the following award categories:

  • Plastics Industry Champion
  • Plastics Circularity Project of the Year
  • Best Innovation in Equipment or Technology
  • Best Plastic Product Development for Recyclability or Re-Use
  • Recycled Plastic Product of the Year

To find out more about the awards categories and apply for the awards, please visit the RECOUP website https://www.recoup.org/recoup-awards-2025/ and complete the entry form by the 27 June 2025 deadline. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact RECOUP at enquiry@recoup.org . The winners will be announced at The RECOUP Awards Ceremony and Networking Dinner on Wednesday 24 September, at the Holiday Inn Peterborough – West. Spaces for the dinner are limited with tickets already on sale through the RECOUP website https://www.recoup.org/recoup-awards-2025/ .

The RECOUP Awards Ceremony and Networking Dinner is followed by The RECOUP Conference on Thursday 25 September with sponsors including WRAP and Ecosurety. Registrations are now open for the day-long event, once again being held at Kingsgate Conference Centre, Peterborough.  Attracting hundreds of delegates each year The RECOUP Conference draws together stakeholders, NGOs, Local and National Government bodies and organisations from across the plastics and wider sustainability value chain, to network, share best practice, and get the latest updates from the plastics value chain.

Attendance remains FREE to members, with early-bird discounts available to non-members for a limited time only. To book your ticket for The RECOUP Conference please visit the RECOUP website, https://www.recoup.org/news-events/the-recoup-conference-2025/.

Sponsorship packages are still available for both the awards and conference, offering organisations an invaluable opportunity to showcase their products and services in front of the most influential people in the plastics resource and recycling value chain. For more information about sponsorship packages, contact RECOUP Events and Membership Manager, Rebecca Davis, rebecca.davis@RECOUP.org

RECOUP Members site visit to Berry Circular Polymers Leamington Spa site

Events
Posted: 19/02/2025

RECOUP Members site visit to Berry Circular Polymers Leamington Spa site

Berry Circular Polymers proudly invites RECOUP members to visit a leading recycling site based in Leamington Spa, UK. The site uses proprietary CleanStream® technology, one of the first closed-loop systems to mechanically process domestically recovered household waste polypropylene (PP) back into packaging for contact sensitive applications

Taking place on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, 10:00 – 14:30. Book your ticket here

 

RECOUP officially launches the Seabin in Peterborough!

News
Posted: 13/02/2025

RECOUP officially launches the Seabin in Peterborough!

On Tuesday 11th February, our Seabin was officially launched by the Mayor of Peterborough, Marco Cereste, on the River Nene at the RailWorld Wildlife Haven.

It was attended by guests from the Peterborough Little Wombles, the City Council, representative for the local MP, Sam Carling, and by one of the funders and RECOUP member, Viridor.

Steve Morgan appeared on live radio on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire and gave interviews for BBC Look East and Peterborough Telegraph.

The Seabin is part of RECOUP’s Litter Composition & Pathways Project, which is looking at using different approaches and technologies to understand the composition of litter, by building a comprehensive litter composition data set with the aim to provide evidence-based interventions to reduce litter pollution.

The focus of the project has been to analyse land-based litter, and the Seabin activity focusses on litter in an aquatic environment.

A Seabin is a floating bin that sits just below the water surface. It has a pump that draws in the water from a large radius which skims material off the top of the surface of the water and recovers it before it sinks.

There are two aims for the Seabin activity. One is to remove litter material at source, but another is to analyse the recovered material to understand what’s in it, including the presence of microplastics.

Guests were able to see the Seabin on the jetty and take part in a litter pick around the Seabin’s location to help clean up the local area.

We would like to thank all the guests for joining us on a cold and rainy morning to celebrate the launch, and for funding from Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) and RECOUP members Viridor, McDonalds and Ocado, to make it happen.

The Peterborough Telegraph article is here

RECOUP Awards

Events
Posted: 10/02/2025

RECOUP Awards

September 24

The RECOUP Awards recognise and celebrate excellence in plastics resource efficiency and recycling and organisations leading a more circular plastics value chain.

Find out more

The RECOUP Conference | Leading a More Circular Plastics Value Chain

Events
Posted: 10/02/2025

The RECOUP Conference | Leading a More Circular Plastics Value Chain

September 25 

The annual RECOUP Conference is the not-to-be-missed event within the plastics recycling value chain.

Find out more

RECOUP Members site visit to Sherbourne Recycling 27 March

Events
Posted: 04/02/2025

RECOUP Members site visit to Sherbourne Recycling 27 March

March 27, 10:30 – 12:30

RECOUP are offering members the opportunity to visit Sherbourne Recycling new state of the art materials recycling facility which combine the use of robotics and optics to separate materials.

Sherbourne Recycling

Automation, flexibility and sustainability

Who are we and how did we get here?

• Sherbourne Recycling was established in 2021, but the journey started way back in 2016

• Mandated to develop, operate, and maintain a new state of the art materials recycling facility in Coventry

• Partnership of eight local authorities makes up the company structure

Design solution

• Technologically advanced solution, highly automated and innovative state of the art facility designed and manufactured by Machinex

• Integrates artificial intelligence at the core of its system that allows real-time interconnectivity between the main sorting equipment

• Adaptability to evolve with minimal input

• Designed to process fully commingled DMR

Taking the next step

• Film extraction present at almost every step of the material sorting process, allowing

Sherbourne’s MRF to be the first of its kind to positively extract flexible films in its input streams

Find out more

The RECOUP Summit: The Challenge of Future Advancements

Events
Posted: 21/01/2025

The RECOUP Summit: The Challenge of Future Advancements

Focusing on developments in technology that will help to drive improvements in the plastics recycling and resource efficiency value chain, The RECOUP Summit is a new event on the RECOUP calendar. Sponsored by WRAP and Ecosurety, The RECOUP Summit takes place on 30 April 2025 at Horizon in Leeds, consisting of focused breakout rooms in the morning followed by a collaborative session in the afternoon, and plenty of time for networking. With an exciting line up of speakers already announced the day is set to see many insightful discussions taking place – it really is an event not to be missed!

 

Attendees can choose between the following breakout sessions:

  • Understanding the Role of Data in the Circular Economy 

This session will examine the importance of data collection in advancing the circular economy, highlighting the function of accurate data in helping deliver the changes that are needed. Looking at how different technologies can add value , whether that is for waste tracking or reuse systems.

Speakers:

Sophie Walker, CEO & Co-Founder, Dsposal

Rachel Warren, CEO, re-universe

Will Addy, Chief Commercial Officer, Polytag

 

  • The Role of Technology in Advancing Recycling Processes 

Technological innovations are profoundly changing the recycling sector. This session will explore the effects of chemical recycling and advancements in technology that are transforming the recycling industry.

Speakers:

Dr Geoff Brighty, Head of Sustainability, Mura Technology

Emmeline Aves, Commercial Manager, ReVentas

Samuel Pine, Head of Customer Delivery, Greyparrot

 

  • Food Contact Packaging – Technology Solutions for the Future

Food contact plastic packaging plays a crucial role in enhancing the recycled content in high end applications. This session will explore possibilities and innovations in this space.

Speakers:

Jeremy Blake, Director of Circular Economy, Berry Global

David Bargery, Managing Director, Regis Machinery

Professor Edward Kosior, CEO & Founder, Nextek Ltd

 

Rebecca Davis, RECOUP’s Membership & Events Manager, comments “With the continued success of The RECOUP Conference and the reoccurring demand for more in depth discussions on technological developments, The RECOUP Summit will bring together a variety of high calibre speakers from the industry. Focusing on three important areas, The RECOUP Summit provides an invaluable opportunity to hear the latest insights and help shape the future of technological advancement in the recycling and resource efficiency value chain”

 

Tickets for The RECOUP Summit are limited to only 40 spaces per session! To view the full agenda and book your ticket, please visit the RECOUP website https://www.recoup.org/news-events/the-recoup-summit/. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact RECOUP at enquiry@recoup.org.