SCS Global Services launched a new certification for chemical recycling, aiming to boost trust and transparency in the sector.
SCS Global Services introduced a new certification program this week specifically for chemical recycling facilities, seeking to establish verifiable standards for a technology often criticized for its environmental claims.
This initiative directly addresses the credibility gap facing chemical recycling, offering a third-party validation that could influence investment, regulatory acceptance, and brand adoption of recycled content claims across plastics industries, impacting recyclers and manufacturers alike.
Verifying Outputs and Environmental Performance in Chemical Recycling
The new SCS certification program, developed over 18 months, focuses on auditing the entire chemical recycling process, from feedstock sourcing to final product. It aims to provide transparency on environmental impacts and material recovery rates, critical factors for brand owners making recycled content claims.
The certification responds to growing skepticism regarding mass balance accounting and the actual environmental benefits of chemical recycling compared to mechanical methods.
- SCS Global Services is a 39-year-old independent third-party certifier.
- The certification evaluates metrics including greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and water use.
- It mandates rigorous mass balance calculations to track recycled content through complex supply chains.
- Initial certifications are expected to target facilities in North America and Europe.
Addressing Greenwashing Concerns and Market Access
The certification directly confronts allegations of greenwashing, which have hindered the broader acceptance of chemical recycling. By providing a credible, independent assessment, SCS aims to differentiate legitimate operations from those making unsubstantiated claims. This distinction is crucial for recyclers seeking to access markets that demand verifiable sustainability credentials.
Brands face increasing pressure from consumers and regulators to demonstrate genuine recycled content. The SCS certification provides a mechanism for them to confidently procure materials from chemical recycling processes, potentially opening new end-markets for previously unrecyclable plastic waste streams. Without such verification, many companies remain hesitant to incorporate chemically recycled feedstocks, limiting the growth of the sector.
What This Means for Recyclers
For chemical recyclers, this certification offers a pathway to enhanced market credibility and potentially higher value for their outputs. Facilities that achieve SCS certification will gain a competitive advantage, likely attracting investment and off-take agreements from brand owners committed to circular economy targets. Operators should prepare for detailed audits covering their process efficiency, environmental footprint, and material traceability to meet these new benchmarks.
