AIMPLAS to Host Third International Plastics Recycling Seminar

According to a recent announcement from AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technology Centre, the third edition of the International Plastics Recycling Seminar (PLASREC) will take place in Valencia this December. The two-day conference has become a key international forum for advancing practical solutions in plastics recycling and promoting collaboration across the circular economy value chain.

The event, as reported, will bring together national and international specialists to address the most pressing issues in the recycling sector, spanning industries such as textiles, automotive, electronics, packaging, and renewable energy. According to AIMPLAS, PLASREC has evolved into a “benchmark meeting point” for dialogue between companies, technology centers, and regulators.

Core Topics and Program Highlights

PLASREC 2025 will feature over 20 expert presentations organized into four thematic blocks. The first block will explore the economic and regulatory landscape, including the European Packaging Regulation, REACH directives, and the implications of the EU Green Deal. Representatives from major organizations such as ANARPLA, ETRA, ANAIP, and Plastics Europe will share insights on how evolving policies are shaping recycling markets.

The second block will focus on waste collection and sorting technologies, emphasizing the use of artificial intelligence, computer vision, and advanced material recognition to manage complex waste streams such as textiles and footwear. Companies like SOLVER IA, PICVISA, and COLEO are among the key contributors.

In the third section, the spotlight will be on cutting-edge recycling technologies, including mechanical, chemical, and hybrid approaches. Case studies will showcase developments in pyrolysis, enzymatic depolymerization, devulcanization, and high-efficiency extrusion, presented by ACTECO, BRÜGGEMANN, PETCORE, PLASTIC ENERGY, MODUS, and UBE, among others.

The final block will address sector-specific circularity goals, highlighting how industries from fashion to wind energy are redesigning their production systems to meet recycling targets. Speakers from INDITEX, ANTOLÍN INGENIERÍA, and AEMAC will discuss practical applications of circular economy principles.

Beyond Presentations: Visits and Collaboration

In addition to the main program, attendees will have access to a technical visit to AIMPLAS facilities, workshops on European project FREE4LIB and national initiative CICLICOM, as well as dedicated networking areas and a congress dinner.

The growing urgency for sustainable materials and stricter EU waste regulations is driving technological progress in the recycling sector. According to industry analysts, integrating AI-driven sorting and chemical recycling could help Europe achieve its 2030 circular economy goals while reducing dependency on virgin plastics. Events like PLASREC provide a vital platform for accelerating adoption and fostering industry alignment.

Source: AIMPLAS