The European plastic industry is striving for carbon neutrality through increased recycling and the adoption of circular economy principles.
While ambitious, the industry's goals are seen as feasible, requiring collaboration and innovation to overcome existing challenges.
European Plastic Industry Sets Sights on Climate Neutrality: Ambitious Goals for More Recycling and Circular Economy.
The European plastic industry is embarking on a journey towards carbon neutrality, with ambitious targets set to increase recycling and promote a circular economy. Over the past decades, global plastic production has surged, reaching a staggering 9100 million tons from 1985 to 2019. However, only a fraction of this has been recycled, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Despite a doubling in global recycling rates from three to six percent over the past 20 years, the plastic lifecycle remains far from circular, with the majority ending up in landfills, incinerated, or polluting the environment, including rivers and oceans.
In response to these challenges, various countries worldwide, including Japan, Canada, China, and the USA, are exploring the adoption of circular economy models for the plastic industry. Leading this charge is the European Union, where transitioning to a circular economy is a key component of the Green Deal. Following extensive preparatory work, Plastics Europe, the European plastic industry's representative body, has unveiled its roadmap to achieve a carbon-neutral plastic circular economy.
Can plastic become eco-friendly? Almost. According to experts, while the endeavor is ambitious, it is feasible. The roadmap emphasizes the importance of high recycling rates, improved sorting facilities, the introduction of new deposit and reusable systems, and closing loops in the material cycle. Moreover, the roadmap highlights the significance of innovative circular business models, such as the "borrow instead of buy" principle, akin to car-sharing services.
However, the presented roadmap has sparked criticism, particularly regarding the proposed production and recycling quotas. Critics argue that the reduction in plastic production and the increase in recycling rates could be significantly higher. Additionally, challenges persist in replacing plastics in certain applications, such as medical products, due to stringent quality standards.
While the journey towards a sustainable plastic industry is fraught with challenges, stakeholders remain committed to finding viable solutions. The roadmap outlines a multifaceted approach, encompassing increased recycling, innovative business models, and the gradual transition to alternative raw materials. As the plastic industry navigates this transition, collaboration between policymakers, industry players, and environmental advocates will be crucial in shaping a more sustainable future.
