The National Test Centre Circular Plastics (NTCP) in Heerenveen, Friesland, is Europe’s first independent plastic testing centre dedicated to enhancing circularity within the plastic value chain. NTCP conducts rigorous experiments to improve plastic recycling processes, reducing reliance on incineration and advancing data-driven innovations for more sustainable waste treatment. By testing sorting, washing, and shredding techniques, NTCP provides practical insights to increase recyclability, contributing to the transition towards a circular plastic economy.

Plastic waste management remains a significant challenge, with high levels of plastic waste ending up in incineration or landfill rather than being recycled. Many plastics from household waste streams are difficult to process due to contamination, inadequate sorting, and ineffective washing technologies. As a result, plastic recycling rates remain low, and the quality of recycled plastics is often insufficient for reuse in high-value applications.

NTCP offers a dedicated research and testing facility where plastics from household waste streams are examined through sorting, shredding, washing, and drying processes. The centre operates a modular sorting line capable of processing up to 2,000 kg per hour, allowing for detailed experimentation with individual process steps. The facility also features an experimental space for testing new equipment and technologies, providing data-driven insights to optimise recycling processes. NTCP’s industrial-scale washing line, currently under development, will further enhance plastic recyclability by systematically refining the washing process.

The initiative has led to an improved understanding of plastic sorting and washing efficiency, resulting in higher recycling rates. Data-driven research has enabled the development of 100% recyclable plastic solutions, contributing to more circular practices. Enhanced collaboration across the plastic value chain has also facilitated industry-wide transitions towards a circular economy. Additionally, a publicly accessible knowledge database has been created to share best practices and research outcomes, helping to spread valuable insights and drive further innovation in the sector.

NTCP’s approach emphasises transparency and collaboration, ensuring that research findings are accessible to stakeholders across the plastic industry. By moving away from intuition-based decision-making and towards empirical research, NTCP supports the realisation of joint circular economy ambitions.