Global Assessment of the Emission Impacts of Chemical Recycling Technologies for Plastics

Chemical recycling is gaining global attention as a solution to plastic pollution, yet understanding of its environmental impacts remains limited. This study quantitatively evaluates emissions from major chemical plastic recycling technologies—solvent-based, depolymerization, pyrolysis, and gasification—under closed-loop scenarios for common plastics. Contrary to prevailing assumptions, when assessed across the full production value chain, closed-loop chemical recycling pathways could increase emissions by 3-84% compared to continued primary plastic production by 2050, depending on implementation scenarios. These increases result from high energy demands, upstream chemical production, and intensive sorting requirements. Even with optimal recovery rates, emissions remain higher due to upstream impacts. The findings highlight the need for significant technological innovation and system-wide improvements before chemical recycling can deliver genuine environmental benefits and serve as a viable plastic pollution strategy. A globally competitive plastics recycling sector must minimize environmental impacts to succeed.