One of the major obstacles to the expansion of plastics recycling in Europe is the lack of common standards and certification within the EU.

A second issue is the export of waste outside the EU (mainly to China and other Asiatic countries) and the subsequent import of poor quality products made in poor health and safety conditions. Not only is the viability of recycling being hampered in Europe, but also the amount and quality of recycling is not being checked.

The Standards & Certification Working Group is a platform to gather statistics and commence dialogue with EU authorities. By developing harmonized standards and a strict certification system it will enable the development of plastics recycling in Europe. Trade barriers will be decreased and European Plastics Recyclers will gain credibility.