Canadians recycled 9% more plastic packaging in 2013 than in 2012, according to a report released by the Canadian Plastics Industry Association (CPIA) on April 2, 2015. Plastic packaging collected for recycling includes plastic bottles, non-bottle rigid plastics, and plastic films, including bags and outer wrap. The reported quantities of plastic recycled in 2013 compared to 2012 levels represent an increase of 13 million kilograms for bottles and an increase of 10 million kilograms for plastic films, such as bags and outer wrap.
CPIA noted that the increase in overall recycling rates was due to more material being collected for recycling and more companies providing recycling information. The reported increase in the recycling of plastic bottles was attributable to an actual increase in collection, rather than to a combination of that plus an improved survey response rate. The survey found that PET and HDPE make up the majority of plastics recycled in Canada, with 90% of the recycled PET sourced from post-consumer bottles. More than 80% of the plastic material recycled in Canada was reclaimed by Canadian or U.S. companies.
The report also noted use of rPET in food and beverage bottles grew dramatically in 2013, surpassing its use in sheet and film. Strapping, non-food bottles, and other products also use recycled PET. The results are based on a study sponsored by CPIA and conducted by Moore Recycling Associates. This is the fifth year that the survey has been conducted.
Click here for to view the 2013 Postconsumer Plastics Recycling in Canada Report.