Future of Plastics Recycling: Global Plastic Treaty Updates and Advancements in Plastic Recycling

This session will dive into how recycling technologies are transforming plastic waste management, enabling the creation of new products and supporting a circular economy. Learn how polymer centers and molecular recycling technologies enable the recycling of a broader range of plastics and support the use of post-consumer recycled content in new products in packaging.

In addition to exploring technological advancements, the panel will discuss the status of the ongoing United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) global plastic treaty negotiations. The outcomes of these negotiations will have potential widespread impacts on the future of plastics recycling. Hear how international policy developments are shaping industry standards.

Panelists will discuss partnerships across the plastics value chain, including efforts to improve collection, sorting, and feedstock supply. The panel will address how mechanical and molecular recycling can complement each other to maximize resource recovery.

Speakers

  • Pete Keller
    Vice President, Recycling and Sustainability
    Republic Services, Inc.
  • Colleen Litkenhaus
    Global Director of Public Policy and Plastics/Circularity Advocacy
    Dow Inc.
  • Kristyn Oldendorf
    Senior Director of Public Policy & Communications
    Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA)
  • Melanie Bower
    Regulatory Development Manager, Plastics Circularity
    ExxonMobil
  • Patrick Krieger
    Senior Vice President, Sustainability and Policy
    Plastics Industry Association