7 Ways to Promote the Positives of Plastics

As we're all very aware, the plastics industry is continuing to come up against lots of confrontation - and unfortunately, whilst there continues to be constant misinformation directed through media platforms, this will likely not diminish. Yet plastic is present in almost every area of modern life - and actually contributes to sustainability efforts in many ways. Polymers are essential in numerous applications including the technology we utilise daily, healthcare, construction, and so much more.

So how can we promote a positive conversation around plastics while acknowledging the need for responsible use?

Here Are Seven Ways That Plastic Industry Professionals Can Promote a Positive Conversation Around Plastics:

1. Highlight the benefits of plastics: Start by acknowledging the many positive aspects of plastics. They are lightweight, durable, versatile and cost-effective. Plastics have revolutionised industries like healthcare, transportation and packaging, improving our lives in numerous ways. Find out more here.

2. Emphasise the role of plastics in sustainability: Discuss how plastics actually contribute to sustainability efforts. For instance, plastic packaging helps reduce food waste by extending the shelf life of food items, saving additional resources needed to produce more food. Transporting lightweight plastic materials in vehicles can improve fuel efficiency, reducing emissions and carbon footprint impact...

3. Discuss innovations in recycling and waste management: Talk about advancements in plastic recycling and waste management technologies. Highlight how more and more plastics are being recycled and repurposed, reducing the amount of plastic ending up in landfills or oceans. Mention the importance of recycling and encourage others to participate in recycling programs to promote a circular economy.

4. Focus on responsible plastic use: Promote responsible plastic use by encouraging individuals and businesses to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastics. Discuss the benefits of using reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and other alternatives to single-use plastics. Emphasise the importance of proper waste disposal and encourage others to support initiatives that promote responsible plastic use, such as beach cleanups or signing up to Operation Clean Sweep.

5. Highlight innovations in sustainable plastics: Discuss the ongoing research and development efforts to create sustainable plastics. Mention how scientists and companies are working towards finding alternative materials or developing plastics that break down more quickly in the environment, reducing their long-term impact. Highlight your plastic innovations in the industry's longest established design award for plastics. These awards highlight innovations that demonstrate commercial potential and environmental advantage.

6. Share success stories: Share examples of individuals, businesses, or communities successfully implementing sustainable plastics-related practices. Highlight their achievements and discuss how their actions have positively impacted the environment and society. This can inspire others to follow suit and adopt similar practices.

7. Educate and raise awareness: Lastly, provide information and educational materials on the proper use, disposal, and recycling of plastics. The more people understand the importance of responsible plastic use, the more likely they are to make informed choices and support sustainable initiatives and innovation.

An important last note is that with current social media platforms, everything you do is visible - even if you delete a post or comment. So the answer to addressing misinformation about plastics is to always focus on the facts and promote responsible use. Withdrawing from the conversation with dignity and fact often extinguishes the fire.

If you feel the urge to respond to an opposing viewpoint, pause, step back and reflect. Is there value in joining a conversation that could negatively affect you, your business and the industry?

Remember, the goal is to promote a positive conversation around plastics while acknowledging the need for responsible use, not to fuel the fire.

Author: Emma Varney-Long