European Commission adopts new rules to calculate recycled content in PET beverage bottles
The European Commission has adopted new rules that introduce a common method for calculating, verifying and reporting chemically recycled content in single-use polyethylene terephthalate (PET) beverage bottles. The measure is part of the Commission’s plastics package published in December 2025 and is expected to strengthen transparency and confidence in recycled plastics across the European market.
The new methodology is the first EU-wide framework designed specifically for chemically recycled content in PET bottles. It aims to ensure that recycled content is measured consistently, giving recyclers, manufacturers and investors greater certainty while supporting the EU’s circular economy objectives.
Common rules for recycled content
The new implementing rules apply to both chemical and mechanical recycling technologies. By introducing a harmonised calculation method, the European Commission aims to create a level playing field for all recycling processes while helping EU Member States meet the recycled-content targets established under the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Clear reporting requirements are also expected to improve traceability and ensure that recycled content claims are backed by reliable data.
Supporting both mechanical and chemical recycling
Mechanical recycling remains the most common way to recycle plastics in Europe. The process typically involves sorting, cleaning, shredding and remoulding plastic waste into new products. It works well for many clean plastic waste streams but has limitations when dealing with contaminated or mixed plastic materials.
Plastic waste containing food residues, complex additives or multiple material layers is often difficult to recycle mechanically. In these cases, chemical recycling can provide an additional route.
Unlike mechanical recycling, chemical recycling breaks plastics down into smaller molecular building blocks. These materials can then be used as feedstock for producing new plastics or other chemical products. This approach allows more difficult plastic waste streams to re-enter the circular economy, particularly for applications such as food-contact packaging where high material quality is required.
Phased approach for recognising recycled plastics
The European Commission will introduce the new rules in stages.
During the first phase, only recycled plastic materials originating from the European Union and the European Economic Area (EEA) will count towards recycled-content targets, as compliance with EU environmental requirements can be fully verified.
From 21 November 2027, recycled plastic sourced from OECD countries will also be recognised unless restricted under the Waste Shipment Regulation.
Recycled materials from non-OECD countries may also qualify if they are covered by agreements that ensure standards equivalent to EU requirements for environmental protection and human health. These standards are linked to legislation such as the Waste Framework Directive and the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.
Focus on transparency and traceability
The Commission said recycled content should only count towards EU targets when it is supported by credible, traceable and environmentally sound verification methods.
The new methodology is expected to improve confidence in recycled-content reporting while encouraging further investment in recycling technologies capable of processing plastic waste that is currently difficult to recycle.
Next steps
The Implementing Act will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union. It will enter into force 20 days after its publication, after which the new methodology will become applicable across the EU.
