European automotive industry supports 25% recycling target despite weak political will

The EU is facing delays in setting recycling targets for automotive plastics and steel, despite industry support for ambitious goals to boost demand.

Under the European Commission’s 2023 end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) proposal, new vehicles should contain at least 25% recycled plastic, Caliber.Az reports citing Euractiv, which includes materials from ELVs.

According to the article, a steel target may also be introduced following further study. However, discussions in Parliament and the Council have stalled, with some member states pushing to lower the plastic target to 15%.

The recycling industry backs the 25% target, arguing it is both feasible and necessary to enhance automotive plastics circularity. According to Maria Vera Duran from the European Recycling Industries Association (EuRIC), the target is based on extensive research and is the best way to ensure progress.

Some automakers have already set their own recycling goals, e.g Sweden's Volvo aiming for 25% recycled content by 2025, while French Renault targets 33% by 2030. Renault’s Mobilize Duo, launching in April, will feature 60% recycled plastic, a record high, with half sourced from ELVs.

Despite increasing EU plastic recycling capacity by over 55% in the last five years, weak demand leaves much of it underused. Industry leaders argue that recycled plastic is already cost-competitive, encouraging its integration into car manufacturing.

By Nazrin Sadigova