In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront of public consciousness, the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has taken a significant step to showcase the reality of plastic recycling in the United States. Through their recently launched advocacy campaign, “Recycling is Real,” PLASTICS aims to promote and defend the plastic recycling industry, emphasizing that it is not a myth but an essential component of a sustainable and circular economy.
The centerpiece of this campaign is a new video that sheds light on the remarkable efforts underway at Amcor’s facility in Wytheville, Virginia. At this facility, Amcor is committed to ensuring that bottles made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are not only 100% recyclable but can also be manufactured using up to 100% recycled content. This groundbreaking initiative exemplifies the genuine commitment of industry leaders towards reducing environmental impact and increasing resource efficiency.
Matt Seaholm, President, and CEO of PLASTICS, emphatically stated, “Plastic recycling is very real, and it happens every single day in Virginia and across America. The ‘Recycling is Real’ campaign will continue to show the public and lawmakers that recycling is undeniable and is a feasible and economical way to achieve a more circular economy.” Seaholm’s words underline the importance of recognizing that recycling is not just a buzzword but a concrete and pragmatic solution to address plastic waste.
Beyond showcasing Amcor’s achievements, the “Recycling is Real” campaign serves a broader purpose. It aims to provide content and information that helps elected officials and policymakers gain a deeper understanding of recycling’s critical role within the sustainability and circularity chain. Armed with accurate information, these decision-makers can make well-informed choices regarding resource allocation for their constituents, driving forward environmentally responsible policies.
Perhaps one of the campaign’s most vital objectives is to dispel false narratives that suggest recycling is a myth or an ineffectual endeavor. Over the years, recycling has faced unwarranted attacks from those advocating for a complete reduction or elimination of plastic production. “Recycling is Real” is set to counter these misleading narratives by vividly illustrating how recycling works, where it occurs, and the dedicated individuals who make it happen.
PLASTICS, as an organization, represents the entire plastics supply chain, including Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers, and stands as an advocate for over one million workers in the $548 billion U.S. plastics industry. It is dedicated to advancing its members’ priorities, who invest in technologies to enhance capabilities, promote recycling and sustainability, and provide essential products that safeguard lives.
Since its establishment in 1937, PLASTICS has consistently worked to enhance the global competitiveness of its members and the broader plastics industry. Their commitment to circularity is evident through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights, events, and policy advocacy. One notable event on the horizon is NPE2024: The Plastics Show, which is the largest plastics trade show in the Americas.
In conclusion, the “Recycling is Real” campaign spearheaded by the Plastics Industry Association is a powerful testament to the fact that plastic recycling is not only real but also vital for a sustainable future. By shedding light on the tangible efforts and achievements of industry leaders like Amcor, this campaign seeks to redefine the narrative surrounding recycling, dispelling misconceptions and championing a more environmentally responsible approach to plastic use. As we move forward, it is essential to acknowledge and support initiatives that contribute to a more circular and sustainable economy, with recycling at its core.
You can see the video here: https://recyclingisreal.com/
