Madelaine Shiff’s Post

5 Stats on Plastic Recycling and ‘Circularity’ Investments: 1. $32 billion was the recent yearly average investment in plastics circularity From 2018 to 2023, global investments in plastics circularity totaled $190 billion, averaging $32 billion annually, with over half in North America. Despite these investments, this is far below the $1 trillion needed yearly by 2040 to reduce global plastic mismanagement. Most funding came from banks, followed by corporations, private equity, and others. Only 6% of investments reached "emerging" economies hardest hit by plastic pollution. 2. 82% of global plastics circularity investments are going to recovery and recycling Investments were still heavily skewing toward plastics recovery and recycling between 2018 and 2023, according to the Plastics Circularity Investment Tracker. Just 4% were tracked to refill and reuse, one example being PepsiCo’s more than $3 billion acquisition of SodaStream International in 2018. 3. The global economy is 7.2% ‘circular’ That’s down from 9.1% in 2018, “meaning more than 90% of materials extracted are either wasted, lost, or remain unavailable,”. BofA Global Research projects that “plastic consumption, waste, emissions and leakage” could rise by 50% to 70% by 2040 as global use of the material grows. 4. The US residential recycling rate for PET bottles is now 28% The statistic was featured in an August report from the PET Recycling Coalition, a brands-backed initiative of The Recycling Partnership. Since 2022, the coalition has worked to increase the capture of PET bottles; widen acceptance of trays, cups and clamshells in community recycling collection programs; unlock new supplies of recycled material for packaging manufacturers; and strengthen recycling systems of pigmented and opaque material. 5. Plastics Pacts globally have increased recycled content by 44% That’s according to a six-years-in impact report on the Plastics Pact Network from WRAP (the U.K.’s Waste and Resources Action Programme) and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. According to the report, the first such pact launched in the U.K. in 2018, and pacts now cover 19 countries, where members collectively account for one-third of the plastic packaging placed on the market in those nations. #PlasticRecycling #CircularEconomy #Sustainability #ZeroWaste #hubbaLtd

Plastic - A double edged sword! It's a versatile and durable material that has revolutionized many industries, but its widespread use has resulted in a massive environmental problem. 1. Millions of tons of plastic waste end up in landfills and oceans every year. This plastic pollutes ecosystems, harms wildlife, and disrupts natural processes. 2. Plastic takes hundreds of years to break down, and during this time, it can release harmful chemicals into the environment. 3. While recycling is important, not all plastics are recyclable, and current recycling infrastructure struggles to handle the vast amount of plastic waste generated. The above factors all negatively affect sustainability. What we need is a multi-pronged approach that tackles plastic throughout its lifecycle. Research into biodegradable or bio-based plastics that decompose quicker or are derived from renewable resources can significantly reduce plastic's environmental impact. Governments can play a role by introducing producer responsibility schemes, and promoting sustainable practices. Let me know your views in the comment section. At PlanetWise, we believe in the collaborative effort of supply chain to create a healthier planet and a brighter future for all. To know more about PlanetWise Pte. Ltd. visit www.planetwise.io #esg #sustainability #carbonmanagement #carbonfootprint

🚨💡 The Recycling Revolution Mirage? A Critical Perspective on "Game-Changing" Technologies Every year, the recycling industry witnesses the announcement of a new "revolutionary" technology poised to change the game. From the CRT monitors of a decade ago to today's advanced plastic recycling plants, history repeats itself with much fanfare but often limited impact. The latest spotlight falls on companies like PureCycle Technologies and their $500 million venture into chemical recycling, backed by giants such as Nestlé, L'Oréal, and Procter & Gamble. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, we're reminded of the perennial gap between promise and performance. Despite the hype, advanced recycling technologies face significant challenges, from technical setbacks to environmental efficacy doubts. This cycle of high expectations followed by underwhelming delivery prompts a critical question: Are we chasing genuine sustainability solutions, or are we swayed by marketing gimmicks that fail to address the root issues of plastic pollution? In the tech and sustainability sectors, it's time for a rigorous assessment. Let's peel back the layers of these so-called revolutionary technologies to discern real progress from perpetual promises. Your thoughts? #Sustainability #RecyclingTech #PlasticWaste #EcoInnovation #CriticalThinking The New York Times https://nyti.ms/3TOuYMo

*U.S. Plastics Pact Launches Roadmap 2.0* The U.S. Plastics Pact has just unveiled Roadmap 2.0, an ambitious plan aimed at transforming the use of plastics in packaging. This new strategic plan focuses on eliminating plastic packaging waste and transitioning to a circular economy where plastics are reused, recycled, composted, and kept within the economy rather than becoming waste. *Key Achievements & Goals* : • Reduced problematic plastics from 14% to 8% • Increased recyclable packaging from 37% to 47.7% • Boosted post-consumer recycled content from 7% to 9.4% • Aiming for 50% recycling rate for plastic packaging by 2030 *Why This Matters for ESG:* The actions outlined in Roadmap2.0 directly contribute to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals by: • Reducing environmental impact through sustainable design and reuse • Addressing social disparities related to plastic production and use • Promoting corporate responsibility and transparency • Promoting recycling and sustainable practices fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility. • Lowering the reliance on virgin plastics and increasing recycled content helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Imagine a world where all plastic packaging is reusable, recyclable, or compostable! 🌟 Companies globally can take similar steps, driving ESG goals and making a positive impact on our planet. 🌏 Let’s discuss: What steps can companies in other countries take to promote a circular economy and meet ESG targets? Comment below! #Sustainability #CircularEconomy #GreenFuture #CorporateResponsibility #EcoInnovation #PlanetFirst #ESG #SDG #Climatechange https://lnkd.in/dbCzDvyA Disclaimer: The Content in this post is for informational purposes only derived from references and does not constitute any professional advice. We do not claim ownership of any data or Information referenced

U.S. Plastics Pact recently pushed back its plastic reduction goals from 2025 to 2030. While this shift raises questions, it underscores the complexity of achieving ambitious sustainability targets. The extension should be seen as a moment of recalibration to achieve the ultimate goal: successfully reducing plastic waste. Aggressive timelines can be challenging without significant advancements in recycling infrastructure, material science, and consumer behavior change. However, the core objective remains: reducing plastic waste. I believe the answer likely lies in collaboration. Open communication and shared responsibility across the entire value chain - brand owners, manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers - are not just important; they are crucial for progress. Continued innovation in recyclable packaging design will play a key role in our collective efforts. Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/eTVR3nq5 #USPlasticsPact #PlasticsPact #Danone #CocaCola #Nestle #Innovation #Sustainability #PlasticWaste #Innovation #Plastics #CircularEconomy

In the face of a global plastic waste crisis, giants like Procter & Gamble, Nestlé, and L’Oréal are banking on advanced recycling technologies to transform the sustainability landscape. But as ambitious deadlines loom, the real-world application of these innovations faces hurdles. Discover how the commitment to a 'circular economy' and the quest for environmental goals unfolds amidst challenges. #Sustainability #PlasticWaste #RecyclingInnovation #EnvironmentalImpact #ShipandShoreEnvironmental

🌍 Unwrapping the Plastic Waste Problem 🌍 In the 1940s, the chemical industry promised society a "bright future molded in plastics.". Less than an average human lifetime later, plastic has become one of the most pressing environmental issues on earth today. 🥤 🍫 ♻ At Hitachi Ventures, Jan & Tobias have spent the past 12 months exploring the plastic recycling market. Dive into our findings and discover: 1️⃣ Barriers to Adoption: Understand what has hindered the widespread adoption of recycling methods in the past. 2️⃣ New Opportunities: Learn why now is the perfect time for novel recycling methods to emerge. 3️⃣ Market Landscape: Explore the current market landscape and the exciting innovations on the horizon. 🔗 Click to read more and join us on this journey towards a sustainable future! https://lnkd.in/d8FBs5J2 #Circularity #Plastic #Recycling #HitachiVentures

Did you know? New Jersey's assembly bill A5009, if passed, will mandate packaging to be recyclable or compostable by 2034 and to achieve 65% recycling rate by 2036. NJ follows many other states that have passed similar bills. Whether you're a manufacturer, retailer, recycler, or policy advisor, it's important to keep your finger on the pulse of sustainability trends. Read more in "The Future of Plastic Recycling: Game-Changing Innovations and Policies" https://lnkd.in/gkvwD7yf.. Industry Intelligence Inc. #sustainability #recycling #plastics #packaging #legislationmonitor #marketintelligence

The US Plastics Pact has unveiled three comprehensive reports to drive sustainable practices in plastic management across the country. Here are the key takeaways: The US Plastics Pact has unveiled three comprehensive reports to drive sustainable practices in plastic management across the country. Here are the key takeaways: 1️⃣ Design for Recyclability Playbook: Provides guidelines to enhance recycling efficiency and integrate with existing recycling systems, aiming to improve national recycling rates. 2️⃣ Design for Reuse Playbook: Focuses on creating systems for reusable packaging to reduce single-use plastics and foster a culture of reuse, aligning with global sustainability principles. 3️⃣ Design for Compostability Playbook: Offers strategies for designing compostable packaging that decomposes effectively in composting facilities, contributing to soil health and sustainable agriculture. These reports are designed to guide companies in making informed decisions and drive significant improvements in plastic packaging sustainability. 🌱 Looking to source the top talent in the plastic packaging industry? Let's take our conversation further at 🔗 spiofchicago.com/contact #Plastics #Innovation #Recyclability #MarketTrends #Recruitment #Compostability #Talent #Agriculture #Packaging

As the world looks for solutions to address the plastic waste challenge, some advocates argue for a reduction or all out ban on the use of plastic. However, a recent report published in Environmental, Science & Technology notes that alternatives such as glass, paper, and aluminum may be worse for the environment based on their GHG emissions. The results of a study discussed in the report indicated that in 15 of 16 applications tested, plastic products had the lowest greenhouse gas emission impact. We rely on plastics for life-saving medical care, safe packaging for food, and many other items essential to everyday life. Applying a circular approach to plastics enables us to use and reuse them over time. That's where Encina fits in -- our technology creates circular chemicals from waste stream plastics enabling our customers to make new products. The result? Less reliance on fossil-based resources and a path forward to decarbonization for manufacturers. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gGUTTQvM #decarbonization #sustainability #circularity