Page 50 - Plastics News January 2026
P. 50
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Further, in Illinois, a new program has been in- able and regulated market. Additionally, the po-
troduced to manage paint recycling more ef- tential for new forms of packaging and recycling
fectively, while in North Carolina, the state’s new technologies, such as smart packaging and bio-
law on tire disposal is credited with stimulating degradable alternatives, is creating new oppor-
the state’s scrap tire recycling program. These tunities for innovation across the supply chain.
initiatives underscore how states are driving en-
vironmental solutions across various industries, With 2026 well underway, the packaging indus-
making recycling a key focus for lawmakers at all try must prepare for a year of rapid changes,
levels. States like North Carolina are leveraging with new policies paving the way for greater sus-
disposal fees to fund recycling programs, which tainability, recycling innovation, and more trans-
boosts local economies and drives investments parent packaging solutions. As environmental
in recycling infrastructure. and regulatory pressures continue to mount,
businesses will be expected to adopt more sus-
The landscape for packaging and recycling is tainable practices, which could lead to long-term
undergoing significant transformation as both benefits for both the industry and the planet.
federal and state governments push for strong- Keep an eye on these legislative updates, as
er regulatory frameworks. As the year progress- they will be central to shaping the future of the
es, the Packaging and Claims Knowledge (PACK) packaging sector, driving both innovation and
Act, chemical recycling advancements, and responsibility in the marketplace.
state-level recycling programs will undoubtedly
shape the packaging sector. Companies in the Source - https://www.packnode.org
packaging industry will need to quickly adapt to
these new regulations to ensure compliance and
remain competitive in an increasingly sustain-
50 PLASTICS NEWS January 2026
