Report discusses sustainability and circularity claims on PET drinking bottles

Says true circularity for PET bottles in Europe is unobtainable; limited by current mechanical recycling processes and infrastructure; argues that claims of recyclability and recycled content are misleading; calls for more standardized communication practices

Circular economy

A circular economy seeks to maintain the value of products and close the material loops in industrial systems, while minimizing waste and reducing raw material and energy inputs. Sometimes also referred to as the ‘circularity’ of a product. Increased recycling of food packaging waste is seen as an important component enabling the transition to a circular economy, but it presents particular challenges, especially with regard to chemical safety.