The plastic recycling industry continues to evolve rapidly, with new technologies and regulations shaping the landscape for 2026 and beyond.

Key trends include the rise of chemical recycling technologies, stricter extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations, and increasing demand for food-grade recycled plastics. The industry is also seeing significant investment in AI-powered sorting systems that dramatically improve material recovery rates.

Companies that invest in advanced washing and pelletizing technology will be best positioned to capitalize on these emerging opportunities and meet the growing demand for high-quality recycled plastic materials.