The intersection of technology and sustainability.
In 2024, the polymer waste management market reached USD 4.87 billion and is set to grow as demand for effective waste disposal solutions increases. Sustainability and recycling continue to gain importance, driving the industry’s transformation, with governments and industries at the forefront of these changes.
You can also read: Key Players Shaping the Future of Plastics.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) led the market last year, representing 53.1% of the annual earnings. Its recyclability makes it perfect for packaging and infrastructure applications. Therefore, companies are increasing the use of recycled HDPE to meet the rising demand for eco-friendly products. This lowers costs and ensures compliance with regulations.
The ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) segment will grow significantly during the forecast period. EPDM prevents leaks in landfills and ponds. Due to its strength and resistance to extreme conditions, it is useful in geomembranes and liners. This material also performs well across a wide temperature range. Sustainable construction and renewable energy projects will increase the demand for eco-friendly polymers. EPDM will play a key role in roofing systems and solar panel components, helping to reduce environmental impact.
Market Size by Product: 2020-2030 Forecast. Courtesy of Grand View Research.
The Asia Pacific region led the market in 2024, accounting for 36.9% of global revenue. Countries like China and India, with high plastic consumption and large populations, generated significant polymer waste. In response, China banned non-industrial plastic imports and significantly increased its investments in advanced recycling technologies.
North America will grow rapidly in the coming years. Initiatives like the U.S. plan to eliminate single-use plastics from federal operations by 2035 support this growth. Waste Management, for example, is upgrading recycling facilities with USD 1.4 billion in investments from 2022 to 2026. ExxonMobil is also expanding its plastic recycling facilities in Texas, targeting one billion pounds of plastic waste annually by 2027.
In Europe, the European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan focuses on making all plastic packaging recyclable or reusable by 2030. Regulations require plastic bottles to contain at least 25% recycled plastic by 2025, increasing to 30% by 2030.
Modern technologies and strict regulations are driving the global shift towards sustainable polymer waste management. Companies are adopting recycling methods, while governments are enforcing policies that encourage environmental responsibility. This combination of efforts contributes to the reduction of plastic waste.
Read the full paper here: Polymer Market For Waste Management.
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