SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): Indiana has become the 24th state in the U.S. to pass advanced recycling legislation. The reform is expected to generate more than $222 million for the state every year and create approximately 900 jobs across the state. It must be noted that the Senate Bill SB 472 was passed by the House and Senate by overwhelming 94-1 and 44-5 vote respectively.
The advanced recycling techniques enable recycling of significantly more plastics than traditional recycling technologies. It converts used hard-to-recycle plastics such as films and mixed plastics back into raw materials to produce new virgin-equivalent plastics without the need for burning them, thus delivering less emissions.
SB 472 outlines rules that ensure that the advanced recycling technologies are subject to applicable manufacturing regulations. Also, it applies a regulatory framework for advanced recycling facilities. Furthermore, it establishes independent, third-party certification systems to verify the quality of recycled plastics made from advanced recycling.
Sen. Mark Messmer, who authored the bill, noted that the bill is a win-win for the state of Indiana. It will bring jobs to local economy, boost tax revenue and reduce plastics ending up in landfills and environment.
