EPA Reconsiders Chemical Recycling Regulation

The United States===United States Environmental Protection Agency is considering a rule change that would reclassify chemical recycling facilities, specifically those using pyrolysis, from incinerators to manufacturing plants under the Clean Air Act. This reclassification would subject them to less stringent air pollution standards, a move long advocated by the American Chemistry Council and its members, including America's Plastic Makers. Environmental groups like Beyond Plastics and the Natural Resources Defense Council strongly oppose this change, arguing it would lead to increased toxic pollution and a rollback of environmental protections. They highlight that the current administration's proposal mirrors a 2020 attempt by the Trump administration, which was later withdrawn by the Biden administration. Critics also point out that the proposed change was subtly introduced and could lead to a period without federal emissions standards. The Natural Resources Defense Council has indicated it will challenge the rule in court if finalized. This regulatory shift could have significant implications for the plastics industry's operational costs and public perception, while also impacting environmental health and policy.