Daicel has postponed the startup of its second cycloolefin copolymer plant in Germany to 2027, citing weak packaging demand and sharply rising construction and labor costs.
January brought renewed resin price increases with polyethylene rising for the first time in months and PET bottle resin climbing as buyers build inventory ahead of seasonal demand.
As of February 10, oil price benchmarks Brent and WTI trade near $68.89 and $64.18 per barrel amid mixed supply/demand signals, renewed US-Iran tensions, and OPEC+ policy. This article unpacks key drivers, investor sentiment, and what comes next for markets and the global economy.
BEWI has opened Norway’s first EPS recycling facility in Fredrikstad, enabling direct reuse of recycled material in insulation production and strengthening circular economy practices across Europe.
The EU has approved an update to the Single-Use Plastics Directive, clarifying mass balance rules for chemical recycling while temporarily excluding imported recyclates to protect Europe’s circular plastics market.
MIT engineers are redefining sustainable housing by turning recycled plastic waste into lightweight, durable 3D-printed construction trusses that could ease timber shortages globally.
HydroDyn Recycling GmbH has initiated restructuring proceedings amid market pressure. Backed by NEXT GENERATION GROUP, the move aims to secure long-term continuity in plastic recycling.
Mexico’s PET recycling reaches 63%, outperforming the US and reshaping global circular plastics, sustainable packaging, and recycled polymer markets.
A new low-pressure solid-state battery developed in China could simplify manufacturing, reduce costs, and accelerate commercialization without sacrificing performance or safety.