Facts About Plastic
State of the Plastic Industry
HOW PLASTIC BENEFITS OUR WORLD
Since becoming commercially available more than half a century ago, the demand for plastic has expanded at an exponential rate. Plastic has achieved critical importance as a material used across practically all sectors— including electronics, textiles, automotive, consumer staples, and construction—and has revolutionized the medical sector.
Today, plastic is the third-largest manufacturing industry in the United States, and North America accounts for roughly 20% of global plastic materials production, according to Statista. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics cites nearly one million people are employed in the plastic manufacturing sector across roughly 16,000 sites. As of 2021, the plastic and resin manufacturing industry was valued at US$74 billion.
Plastic is a long-lasting, robust material that can be used to construct buildings,
bridges, and infrastructure
Plastic is light but durable, resistant to rot and corrosion, and has a long lifespan because of its ability to form tight seals
Plastic’s light weight provides lighter packing solutions for freight delivery, resulting in lower fuel consumption
Plastic makes everyday things more affordable
Because plastic can be reused and recycled, it eliminates the demand for new materials and decreases landfill waste
But, perhaps the biggest benefit of plastic is its ability to reduce food waste.
Let’s put this in perspective: if food waste were a country, it would be the third-highest emitter of greenhouse gases, second only to China and the US.
100% of Plastic Industries products can be recycled
Plastic industries is primarily using PET and HDPE – both of which are recyclable plastics
PLASTIC HAS A 46% SMALLER CARBON FOOTPRINT AND PRODUCES 80% LESS SOLID WASTE BY WEIGHT THAN GLASS OR ALUMINUM.
THE PLASTIC BACKLASH AND REGULATIONS
So, knowing the benefits of plastic, why does plastic get such a bad rap? Unfortunately, plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues as disposable plastic products overwhelm the world’s ability to deal with them. However, it’s important to remember not all plastics are created equal.
The bulk of plastic waste is generated by single-use plastic and plastics that are nonrecyclable. Today, single-use plastics—i.e. spoons, straws, shopping bags, and coffee cup lids—account for nearly half the plastic waste produced every year.
Because of this growing waste problem, several countries, regions, and cities have recently introduced regulations and legislations focused on plastic. These are primarily aimed at single-use and disposal products outside of the Plastic Industries product portfolio, and are meant to reduce consumption and improve waste management.
At Plastic Industries, 90% of our bottles are multi-use and large format as well as 100% recyclable. We’re dedicated to eliminating waste and ensuring our products are safe, recyclable, and reusable. We know our industry will continue to play an important role in the U.S. and the world. For this reason, we’re committed to achieving a circular economy and are striving to do our part in lowering GHG emissions and working toward a sustainable future.