A recently released report on US post-consumer plastics shows the recycling rate for PET bottles is now greater than 30%. This great news is a result of 3 factors that contribute to a reduction in national emissions & a sustainable supply chain.
1) Domestic Manufacturing
There’s a growing demand for recycled plastics in the manufacturing sector. Better yet, this growth is largely in US recycling, meaning that the recycled plastic is not being shipped overseas, leading to considerable emissions.
Import emissions are also being reduced as locally sourced plastic supplies offer a stable business environment. Compared to international suppliers, local sources avoid additional shipping costs, duty, international shipping insurance, and other unknown fees. Also, higher quality control standards & ideal working conditions create consistent sourcing that is untarnished by worker inequality.
2) Material Value
Rising concerns over usable plastic, poor quality & low yields of imports drive increases in domestic plastic demand and material price. In fact, in 2012 the demand for recycled plastic greatly outstripped the current supply. Today, this continues to provide growth opportunities as US recyclers aim to increase the availability of high quality FDA approved food ready plastics.
This is great news for business owners who run restaurants or food courts – a few well placed recycling bins can quickly turn your waste streams into a gold mine and a sustainable supply source.
3) Businesses Going Green
Everyone, from small businesses to large offices generate paper, plastic cup, and bottle waste that can all be recycled. Corporate green initiatives often start by implementing a recycling program. These efforts are beneficial in aiding sustainable recyclable supplies, client perception, employee satisfaction, and public image.
When everyone feels positive that they belong to a company that cares about more than just the bottom line, they will more likely endorse business efforts & future sustainability investments.
Local recycling markets helps reduce imports, emissions & virgin material usage. As encouraging as these recent numbers are, it’s still important to remember that 30% falls far short of 100%. And while a 100% recycling rate may be impossible to reach, it’s certainly where the goal should be set.
For more information, read the Report on Postconsumer PET Recycling Activity in 2012.
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