Review of existing data-driven initiatives and their relevance on plastics circularity

This research report explores how data-driven solutions could be transforming the circularity of plastics, emphasizing the growing importance of digital tools, standards, and regulatory frameworks in enabling sustainable practices across the plastics value chain. The report begins by clarifying the concept of data in the circular economy, highlighting its role in transparency, traceability, and informed decision-making. It notes that data can range from broad annual recycling statistics to granular, real-time process measurements, and stresses that high-quality, well-managed data is becoming essential for compliance and competitiveness, especially as new EU regulations demand detailed product and material information.
The document reviews the current state of data-driven initiatives, such as Digital Product Passports (DPPs), which are being piloted in sectors like batteries and textiles. These passports compile lifecycle data to enhance transparency and support circular business models. The report also discusses advanced technologies that optimize polymer production and recycling, as well as machine vision and robotics for waste sorting.
A part of the report is dedicated to standards and certification systems, such as ISCC PLUS, which ensure traceability and sustainability in recycled plastics. Recent European standards now differentiate between sorted plastics and recyclates and introduce classifications like Data Quality Levels (DQL) for digital trading, paving the way for broader adoption of Digital Product Passports.
Cross-sectoral insights are provided, showing how data-driven circularity is being applied in electronics, food, and agriculture. The report highlights the evolution of data sharing technologies, the opportunities and challenges they present including privacy, security, interoperability and the regulatory landscape shaped by the EU Data Act, Data Governance Act, and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).
Ultimately, the report concludes that robust data frameworks and collaborative data ecosystems are foundational for advancing plastics circularity. Organizations that invest in these areas will be best positioned to meet regulatory requirements and market demands, driving the transition to a more circular and sustainable economy. However, their success depends on thoughtful implementation, harmonized standards, and a clear strategic purpose for data collection and processing.