The pandemic has brought unforeseen consequences to the recycling industry. A surge in single-use plastics like masks and gloves found their way into recycling streams, complicating efforts to manage waste effectively.
This led to a reevaluation of existing systems, spurring innovation to address new challenges. Companies quickly adapted, developing specialized recycling protocols that differentiate between traditional waste and pandemic-related materials.
However, the increased reliance on plastics also highlighted deficiencies in recycling infrastructure. The sector had to pivot rapidly, adopting new technologies to cope with unprecedented amounts of waste.
Post-pandemic, this shift represents both a challenge and an opportunity. As the industry adapts to this ‘new normal,’ insights gleaned from the crisis might just spearhead future advancements in plastic recycling.