In the modern world, plastic can be seen equally as good and useful, as bad and evil.
Plastic manufacturers all around the globe believe that the current hatred towards plastic and how it affects the environment is based on misconceptions. We also believe that this does not solve any problems. The reality is that plastic is used every day in many ways, and that it is one of the most useful materials that has made our daily lives that much easier. We believe that using plastic responsibly and recycling affectively is what will solve the problems.
While it is true that plastic can have some bad repercussions on the environment, it is much more sustainable than other alternative materials, if it is used responsibly and recycled as much as possible.
Let us present some facts against some of the more popular assumptions about plastic:
- Myth: “Plastic packing makes up the majority of packaging waste”. Plastic packaging makes up only a small proportion of waste, approximately 19% across Europe.
- Myth: “Plastic is bad for the environment”. In reality, plastic is more sustainable than its alternatives. Other materials, such as glass, paper or metal often leave bigger environmental footprints and emit more carbon during production and recycling.
- Myth: “Plastic packaging is the biggest factor in climate change”. Plastic packaging creates a very small amount of a person’s carbon footprint, approximately 0.6% a year.
- Myth: “Plastic packing uses large amounts of oil during manufacturing process”. It takes fewer fossil resources to produce plastic than what people are led to believe. Only 1.5% of the oil produced globally is used for plastic packaging.
- Myth: “Landfills are full of plastic packaging”. Used plastic packaging is being recycled more and more and less of it is ending up as landfill nowadays.
We understand that in recent years people have been conditioned to believe that plastic is a bad thing. While recycling and reusing plastic is an important part of helping our environment, plastic’s reputation is not deserved. Plastic has many advantages for us and the environment when compared to other materials. Plastic can be re-used, and recycled very effectively.
Engineer Sten Gustaf Thulin, who invented the plastic bag, intended it to be a re-useable item, not a throw away item. If we use plastic responsibly, recycle it when it has come to the end of its life, and re-use (paper bags are much harder to re-use and get wet in the rain!), we will do our bit. Plastic is not evil if used correctly. Education to the masses is key.
Euro Extrusions has secured its position as a major player in the plastic manufacturing industry, supplying thermoplastic sheet and film. We specialise in High Impact Polystyrene (HIPs) and have a wealth of knowledge and experience in manufacturing extruded thermoplastic sheet and film for thermoforming, vacuum forming, fabrication and printing.
Euro Extrusions can also use recycled materials to produce HIPs rolls or sheet, which can significantly reduce costs and is good for the environment. We have gained a loyal customer following due to our strong customer service ethos, market knowledge and prediction of trends.
We are able to adapt our current manufacturing methods and techniques to accommodate the ever-changing demands of our customers.
To learn more about our services don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team today.
