The LDPE recycler said the recent rush to alternative packaging formats often ignores the lightweight, durable and hygienic properties of plastic in favour of packaging mediums that are perceived to be more sustainable, but which may in fact have a greater environmental impact.
“As consumers, we have all seen the recent shift from plastic to other packaging formats despite the well-known environmental benefits of plastic as a lightweight, high-performance packaging medium,” said David Harris, Chase Plastics.
“It is vital that the plastics industry responds to this by highlighting the benefits of plastics packaging – especially that manufactured with recycled content – as a sustainable packaging format to both brand owners and consumers alike.”
Harris recommends that that brands considering moving from lightweight plastic packaging to an alternative format should consider the full product lifecycle of both mediums before making such a switch – taking into account the energy and water used in production as well as end-of-life solutions.
