Recent activity in soft plastics recycling industry

23 April 2024

Last week there were some major developments for soft plastics recycling in Australia. While not all were positive, there remains an exciting future for domestic soft plastics recycling. Importantly, our industry-led soft plastic recycling scheme has been developed with end markets in mind and governance throughout, despite the challenges along the way.   

Cleanaway and Viva Partnership for Sustainable Solutions  

Cleanaway and Viva Energy recently solidified an exciting agreement to transform Australia’s waste sector and open new circular economy and packaging possibilities.   

This agreement will see the two companies embark on a pre-feasibility assessment for a circular solution for soft plastics. The proposed solution has the potential to transform post-consumer soft plastics and other difficult to recycle plastics back into feedstock for food-grade plastics, paving the way for a more sustainable future.  

The AFGC’s National Plastics Recycling Scheme (NPRS) has been developing the scheme in consultation with supply chain partners, including Cleanaway and Viva Energy. The NPRS looks forward to continuing to work closely with these partners to facilitate Australia’s circular and low emissions future.   

Qenos Closure  

In other news, the soft plastics market has experienced a setback with the unfortunate closure of Qenos, a prominent polyethylene polymer manufacturer. The company has voluntarily entered administration following reports of operational and financial challenges. This development has undoubtedly created a gap in the market. However, with new investments and strategic initiatives, there’s optimism for Australia’s circular economy.  

For more information on soft plastics circularity or NPRS, please get in touch with us.