SUPD: Implementing act clarifies recycled content calculation for PET bottles

The European Commission is set to adopt a new Implementing Decision laying out updated rules for the calculation, verification and reporting of recycled plastic content in single-use PET beverage bottles under Directive (EU) 2019/904 (SUPD). It replaces Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2683.

According to the new decision, recycled content must be calculated as a percentage of the total plastic weight of PET bottles, including caps, lids, labels and sleeves.

Only plastic derived from post-consumer waste may be counted. Where recycled content cannot be directly measured, mass balance accounting must be applied at facility level. Material used for fuels or process losses cannot be counted, and attributed volumes may not be transferred between facilities.

The Decision also sets conditions for counting recycled plastic from third countries. Such material may only be considered from 21 November 2027 and must meet specific environmental requirements. Member States must collect and verify data from economic operators on a risk-based basis.

The new methodology applies from the twentieth day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

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