The US Plastics Pact recently published an updated report emphasizing the urgent need to eliminate problematic and unnecessary materials from the plastics value chain. The document proposes new strategies for tackling circular design challenges, particularly the issue of contamination in recycling streams, and suggests a series of material bans, including those on oxo-degradable products.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Aligning with Global Initiatives
This report emerges at a pivotal moment, following the recent shift in the US government’s stance toward supporting global caps on plastic production. This move aligns with the objectives of the “High Ambition Coalition” in advance of the upcoming final negotiations for a UN Plastic Treaty set for November.
The US Plastics Pact
The US Plastics Pact is a collaborative initiative designed to tackle the issues related to plastic waste while fostering a sustainable approach to plastic consumption in the United States. It aligns with global initiatives to combat plastic pollution, such as the UN Plastics Treaty and various international efforts aimed at establishing universal standards for plastic production and waste management.
Additionally, the Pact regularly releases reports that detail its progress toward these goals, providing metrics on plastic production, recycling rates, and the reduction of problematic materials. Members of the US Plastics Pact include prominent companies in the plastics and food sectors, such as Unilever, Coca-Cola, and General Mills.
Expanded Elimination List and Future Challenges
A change from the previous findings of the report is indicated, which called for the elimination of eleven specific materials by 2025. New materials have been added to this list, including non-compostable produce stickers, which are targeted for removal by 2030, as well as multi-material plastic designs and oxo-degradable additives. In addition, the report acknowledges that some items on the elimination list may not have clear paths to circularity due to their environmental impact or the absence of viable alternatives.
Supporting Policies and Global Cooperation
To facilitate a more circular economy, the Pact advocates for the establishment of policies at all levels of government that promote reuse, recycling, and composting initiatives, as well as promote the use of post-consumer recycled content in packaging.
It was also highlighted that by phasing out plastic packaging entirely, it could lead to negative consequences, emphasizing the need for innovations that maintain functionality while transitioning away from traditional plastics.
Conclusion
The report from the US Plastics Pact is a collective effort to reshape the plastics industry landscape, advocating for innovation, collaboration, and policy support, in order to advance toward a more sustainable future for plastic packaging.