- In May 2024, Vetropack inaugurated a technologically advanced glass recycling facility in Austria, featuring state-of-the-art optical sorting systems to enhance cullet purity. This investment supports increased recycled glass integration into new bottles, enabling closed-loop production and reducing energy consumption and emissions, aligning with EU sustainability directives and growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
- In March 2025, NSG Pilkington successfully recycled 220 tonnes of greenhouse glass panes into float glass at its St. Helens facility. This project reduced carbon emissions by 55 tonnes and demonstrated the viability of full-circle glass reuse, setting a precedent for glass recycling in architectural and horticultural sectors across the United Kingdom and Europe.
- In February 2024, In February 2024, glass packaging leaders Verallia and Ardagh committed to ambitious recycling goals. Verallia aims for 60% recycled content in its products by 2025, while Ardagh partnered with O-I Glass to co-invest in a U.S.-based glass beneficiation facility, significantly enhancing domestic cullet supply and bolstering sustainable manufacturing across North America.
- In January 202, Solarcycle revealed plans for a $344 million solar panel recycling plant in Cedartown, Georgia. Operational by 2026, the facility will process over 1 million panels annually, reclaiming valuable materials including high-quality recycled glass. The project will create more than 600 jobs and contribute 5 GW to solar module supply chains.
- In April 2024, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations expanded in 38 countries, mandating manufacturers to reclaim packaging waste. Simultaneously, investments surged in robotic and AI-powered optical sorting technologies to improve glass recovery rates and cullet purity. These trends reflect rising pressure on producers to meet recycling targets and minimize landfill contributions globally.
