The Australia Recycled Plastic Market refers to the recycling of post-consumer and post-industrial plastic containers and packaging into new products. Recycled plastics are collected from various sources like household, commercial and industrial waste. Common sources include bottles, caps and lids, film and wrap, bags and sacks, containers and trays. Recycled plastics are used to manufacture new products like benches, boards, roofing materials, flooring tiles, outdoor furniture, pipes, automotive components and more. Recycled plastics have gained prominence due to the environmental benefits of reducing landfill waste and conserving natural resources through reuse.
The Australia Recycled Plastic Market is estimated to be valued at USD 798.1 Mn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1,552.9 Mn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
The Australia recycled plastics are Veolia, FCC Enviro, Remondis, Suez and Cleanaway Waste Management.
Growing awareness towards environmental sustainability has boosted the demand for recycled plastics from sectors like construction, automotive and packaging industries. The construction industry is a major end-user of recycled plastics for making pipes, flooring, fences and other fittings.
Technological advancements like advanced waste sorting mechanisms and recycling processes have improved the quality and yield of recycled plastics, making them suitable for more complex applications.
Market Trends
One of the major trends in the Australia Recycled Plastic Market is the shift towards circular economy principles which aim to keep resources in use for longer. Companies are focusing on designing products that can be easily recycled at end-of-life to maximize resource recovery.
There is a growing preference for recycled content among consumers as well as businesses. Legislation is being introduced to mandate minimum recycled plastic quotas, driving greater demand.
Market Opportunities
Rising environmental regulations restricting virgin plastic usage and landfilling of wastes present an opportunity for recycled plastics to substitute virgin plastics.
Advancements in recycling technologies for flexible plastics like films present an opportunity to further increase recycling rates. Currently these have lower recycling rates compared to rigid plastics.
Impact of COVID-19 on Australia Recycled Plastic Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted the Australia recycled plastic market. During the initial outbreak and lockdown, there was a steep decline in demand from end-use industries such as packaging, textiles, automotive, and construction. Supply disruptions across borders and within countries disrupted the overall value chain of the recycled plastic market. Closed manufacturing units and construction sites led to reduced offtake of recycled plastics. However, with increased awareness about safety and hygiene, the demand for plastic packaging grew rapidly from the food and pharma sectors.
As lockdowns eased, economic activities resumed gradually. The recovery has been slow but steady with standard operating procedures in place. Government support through incentives and subsisides has encouraged industries to resume operations. Companies have changed their priorities and are focused more on sustainability. Adopting a circular economy approach, organizations are finding innovative ways to use recycled plastic and reduce virgin plastic usage. Investments are being made in advanced recycling technologies to improve quality and yield of recycled plastic. Collaborations within the value chain help address demand-supply gaps.
Though challenges remain, the long-term outlook for the market is positive driven by growing environmental consciousness. Stronger policy push for plastic waste management and a ban on single-use plastics will boost plastic recycling rates in the country.
In terms of geographical concentration, more than 50% of the total value of Australia's recycled plastic market is generated from New South Wales and Victoria regions. This is due to the presence of major end-use industries and recycling facilities in these states. In terms of growth, Western Australia is emerging as the fastest growing region for recycled plastics. Setting ambitious plastic waste reduction targets, the state government is investing in advanced recycling infrastructure to cater to the growing recycling needs.
The geographical region with fastest growth
Western Australia is emerging as the fastest growing region for recycled plastics in Australia. The state government has set ambitious targets to reduce plastic waste and improve recycling rates. It recognizes the economic and environmental potential of developing a circular plastics economy. Several initiatives are being undertaken to boost plastic recycling infrastructure and capacity in the state. Large investments are flowing in to set up mechanized material recovery facilities, chemical recycling plants and converted plastic manufacturing units. With a conducive policy environment and availability of recycled plastic raw materials locally, plastic converting companies are expected to scale up their operations substantially over the coming years. Western Australia's recycled plastic market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 8% during 2022-2027. This makes it the most attractive market for recycled plastics in Australia currently.
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