Open house at CMG: two days focused on the future of plastics recycling

On 17 and 18 March 2026, CMG opened the doors of its headquarters in Budrio (Bologna) for an open house dedicated to the future of plastics recycling. The two days of discussions, technical insights, and networking brought together partners and industry professionals from around the world, with a clear objective: transforming size reduction from a simple process into a true competitive advantage.

The first day, hosted at the Museum of Industrial Heritage in Bologna, featured leading speakers from across the recycling value chain, providing a comprehensive overview of trends, regulations, and future scenarios. The second day took place at CMG headquarters, including a company tour and access to the “Experience Room”, the operational core where size reduction tests are performed on real materials. This was a key moment of the event, focusing on technology, application solutions, and workshops dedicated to major global markets.

The afternoon included presentations from national and international experts who shared data, strategies, and real-world case studies spanning the entire recycling value chain.

Martyna Fong (AMI) presented an analysis of the current state and future outlook of the recycling industry, highlighting evolving global demand and the central role of sustainability in industrial strategies. The data showed a growing but increasingly complex sector, where collaboration and access to strategic information are crucial.

Paolo Glerean (Aliplast) explained how to navigate the European regulatory and economic landscape, transforming it into operational opportunities through his company’s industrial model. Particular attention was given to the development of advanced facilities and increased recycling capacity, key elements to meet new market requirements.

Fabrizio Di Gregorio (Plastics Recyclers Europe & RecyClass) addressed the European legislative framework and recyclability targets, with a focus on post-consumer materials and verification methods. Standards, certifications, and traceability emerged as critical factors to ensure quality and compliance across the value chain.

Martino Colonna (University of Bologna) presented innovative case studies on the recycling of complex materials, such as sports equipment and textiles, demonstrating the strategic role of applied research. His contribution highlighted how new technologies can open opportunities even in areas previously considered difficult to recycle.

Iacopo Bianconcini (SACMI) discussed the transition to sustainable packaging, illustrating concrete solutions to close the material loop. Innovation in design and production processes proved central to enabling truly circular models.

Finally, Riccardo Lamperti (LyondellBasell) shared the brand owners’ perspective on building a circular value chain, emphasising the importance of collaboration among industrial stakeholders. Integration of materials, technology, and sustainability now represents a strategic lever for sector development.

The second day also featured interactive workshops dedicated to the Italian market and key international markets. These sessions enabled participants to analyse local trends and challenges, share application experiences, collect direct feedback, and identify new development opportunities.

The new EV 92-220 granulator was the technological highlight of the open house. Part of the Evolution series, this solution is designed for high-capacity industrial applications and exemplifies CMG’s approach: not just technology, but solutions that improve plant performance. Key benefits include high productivity, reduced energy consumption, consistent regrind quality, dust-free operation with uniform flakes, and fast, simplified maintenance.

Through the open house, CMG showcased the combination of technological innovation, market vision, and collaboration across the recycling value chain. The company emphasised its role as a full-service technology partner, rather than merely a machine manufacturer. With over 45 years of experience and a solution-oriented approach, CMG supports companies and OEMs in improving production efficiency, reducing waste, increasing recycled material quality, and addressing the challenges of the circular transition.