Results of the Delta Plan for Circular Plastic Packaging
A promising start: growing commitment and first matches made
At a time when the Netherlands’ leading position in packaging recycling is under pressure, the sector is demonstrating that working together to use more recycled plastic is paying off. A growing number of companies is joining Verpact’s Delta Plan for Circular Plastic Packaging, alongside more than 20 brand owners, bringing together supply and demand for high-quality recycled material. The Plastics Table (organised by the Dutch government) met today, where Verpact presented the first matches made thanks to the Circular Plastic Bank, which is part of the initiative. This shows what is possible and how much more can be achieved by working together.
“If we really want to use more recyclate, we need to be proactive. That is exactly what we’ve done with the Delta Plan for Circular Plastic Packaging. Together with our partners, we have pioneered a way to get this off the ground in the Netherlands. It requires a lot of fieldwork, but that’s what we do best: looking ahead and taking action. It’s great to see how we in the Netherlands are working together to achieve this!” said Hester Klein Lankhorst, CEO of Verpact.
First matches made
As orchestrator, Verpact has an excellent understanding of the market, and with access to the entire network, it is well-positioned to identify where the needs lie. Matchmaking takes place in the Circular Plastic Bank. By connecting supply and demand, we can make better use of recyclate. However, the discount on using recyclate through Verpact’s rate differentiation and the innovation programmes that are part of the Delta Plan are also helping to overcome existing obstacles to using recyclate.
This is evident from the first matches with:
Additional matches aimed at optimising the deployment of recyclate will follow in the near future.
Growing commitment in the chain
The number of participating brand owners has grown to 24 partners. During roundtable discussions, companies are sharing their challenges and determining how to move forward with the Delta Plan together. This is demonstrating the willingness of the sector to take collective responsibility.
We can clearly see that the sector is ambitious, but we also recognise that we would benefit from long-term security and a level playing field in the EU. This would give us the flexibility to innovate and invest in the technologies that will be needed by 2030. A favourable investment climate, quick permits and access to energy are important preconditions here. In addition to mismatches in quality, colour and image, we can also very plainly see how the unprofitable top level is making it impossible to use EU recyclate. It is clear that additional levies cannot be sustained by the sector and will be counterproductive.
A strong foundation for the future
Tariff differentiation developments will create a powerful financial incentive for more high-quality recyclate from 2027 onwards. This, in turn, will make recyclate cheaper. Research has also been conducted into how certification can contribute to better traceability in the chain. This is allowing the sector to take steps together to meet future requirements in Europe.
Catalyst for increased use of recyclate
The foundation for structured growth has been established. Together with its value chain partners, Verpact is working on enhancing professionalism, innovation, and expanding the Circular Plastic Bank, as well as preparing for the introduction of rate differentiation in 2027. The Delta Plan for Circular Plastic Packaging is intended to serve as a catalyst for the increased deployment of recyclate.