Global Scans · Plastics · Weekly Summary

• [New] A law Gov. Gavin Newsom signed four years ago aims to phase out 25% of non-recyclable, non-compostable plastic by 2032. CALmatters
• [New] Plastic packaging will face minimum recycled content requirements in stages, with more demanding thresholds applying from 2030 and then increasing again from 2040 for key packaging categories. ASUENE
• Worldwide demand for plastic continues to grow, with the OECD estimating that global plastic consumption will likely double by 2050. Idtechex
• The Circular Economy for Plastics proposed a Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation effective as of 2025 (Regulation 2025/40, 2024) that requires all packaging (including plastic) to be recyclable or reusable by 2030, and to set recycled content targets for plastics. Scientific Advice Mechanism
• By the year 2032, any single-use plastic that comes into [California] must either be recyclable, compostable. Wbur
• Regulation 2025/40 establishes minimum post-consumer recycled-content requirements for several plastic packaging categories from 2030, so converters need qualified recycled material that can meet mechanical, visual and food-contact specifications. FactMr
• The biggest hurdle for producers is cutting plastic use 25% by 2032 - which state regulators say will require redesigning packaging and shifting toward reusable products, such as dishes at restaurants and paper-based packaging for produce. CALmatters
• New EU packaging laws set for 2030 will ban single-use plastic packaging for most fresh produce under 1.5 kg and require 10% of most drinks to be sold in reusable containers, with takeaway businesses required to offer a reusable option from 2028. Impakter
• Plastic production worldwide has doubled since 2000 and is forecast to triple by 2060. Chicago Tribune
• Plastic packaging must meet mandatory post-consumer recyclate thresholds starting in 2030. Sunhat
• A protein-rich cookie made from plastic and agricultural waste could help solve two serious problems facing future generations. New Atlas

Last updated: 21 September 2026