Plastic occupies a significant percentage of modern life. This may be due to its durability, versatility and affordability. Almost every industry use plastic in its packaging. Unfortunately, as the use of plastic increases, so do the amount of waste into the environment. According to studies, there is more plastic, especially being disposed into water bodies. There is pressing need for sustainable practices of plastic manufacturing and recycling. The good news is that advancements and innovations in plastic industry are giving hope to reducing plastic waste. The industry is undergoing transformative change aimed towards sustainability. Here is a short overview of plastic manufacturing, including the regulations put in place to manage plastic production and disposal.
There has been a rising need for government and the entire industry to control the production and disposal of plastic waste. This has greatly helped reduce the amount of landfill from plastic waste. Here are several examples of these policies and regulations.
- Plastic Tax
Many countries have applied plastic taxes to discourage use of plastic products. They are also incentivizing businesses to choose sustainable practices. For example, UK introduced the plastic tax to ensure packaging can only contain a certain percentage of plastic. Generally, industry initiatives and government regulations are promoting sustainability that is helping reduce environmental impact of plastic. These initiatives are helping save the planet and build a circular economy.
- Bans and Restrictions of Single-Use Plastic
Governments in many countries have also implemented bans and restrictions on single-use plastic. Plastic production like straws and plastic bags is restricted to reduce the plastic waste industries generate. This has encouraged businesses to choose sustainable approaches. They are also promoting consumer awareness on environmental impact.
- Certification and Labeling Programs
Certification and labeling are incentivizing consumers to select products from sustainable materials. Today, people are purchasing from business using sustainable practices to minimize environmental effect.
- Extended Producer Responsibility
ERP are policies putting manufacturers responsible for end-of-life management of products. That means manufacturers have responsibility of design products with recyclability features. They must invest in recycling initiatives and possess equipment for the same.
- Plastic Waste Reduction Targets
Industries and governments have set targets for plastic waste reduction and recycling. This has, in turn, encouraged businesses to go for sustainable practices. Businesses have also invested in recycling structures and equipment to meet these targets.
- Recycling Mandates
There is mandatory rule for businesses to recycle specific percentage of plastic waste. The mandate is aimed at reducing amount of plastic waste released to the environment.
- Plastic Waste Export Import Regulations
Some countries introduced regulations aimed at control plastic waste import and export. For instance, EU regulates plastic waste exportation to non-OECD countries.
- Industry Collaborations and Initiatives
Companies collaborate with industries to develop solutions and devise technologies in plastic waste management. They include recycling programs, upcycling initiatives and sustainable packaging solutions.
Key Takeaways
Industries and governments are playing crucial role in mitigating plastic waste production. They are promoting sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact of plastic waste. Through collaboration, everyone can take part in protecting environment and build a sustainable economy.
