Introduction to the Certification Standard for Responsible Advanced Chemical Molecular Recycling

November 18, 2025

While the global chemical recycling market was valued at $14.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow continuously through 2030, the industry continues to face challenges resulting from regulatory ambiguity, economic viability, and even pushback from those questioning whether chemical recycling is beneficial.

In response, a new Certification Standard for Responsible Advanced/Chemical/Molecular (ACM) Recycling (SCS-004) is being developed to establish a credible basis for independently assessing and certifying environmentally and socially responsible ACM recycling operations.  The Standard, which brings needed transparency to ACM recycling, is primarily applicable to recyclers handling polymers (e.g., plastics, textiles, elastomers) and to different advanced, chemical, and molecular recycling technologies (e.g., pyrolysis, solvolysis, depolymerization, and gasification).

Watch Victoria Norman, Executive Director and Rachel Boothby-Hentschel, Senior Associate, of SCS Standards and Assurance Systems; and representatives from Eastman, LyondellBasell and Alterra where they will introduce the certification standard.

Key topics discussed:

• Presentation of the standard structure and requirements
• Overview of the proposed certification process
• Value of defining responsible advanced/chemical/molecular recycling