Environmental

Introduction : Sustainable Plastics

Plastics New Zealand delivers a range of services for its members to help meet its overarching goal of maximising the growth and success of plastics-based technology in an economically, socially and environmentally responsible manner.

The New Zealand plastics industry is a major contributor to the economy generating a turnover of $4 billion a year and employing more than 8000 people. Plastics have improved our social wellbeing and are essential in our healthcare. Environmentally plastics have an important role to play because of their intrinsic energy saving potential and recyclability.

Applying sustainability principles into the manufacture, distribution, use and recovery of plastics will better position members and the industry to deliver innovative materials, products and technology. The New Zealand plastics industry is well placed to drive more sustainable plastic products which will help mitigate climate change, drive waste minimisation and improve resource management.

The Environmental Committee provides the platform to deliver policy, projects and programmes which highlight the sustainability of plastics as a raw material by:

• Researching opportunities to improve the environmental footprint of plastics across the whole of its life cycle as part of its commitment to product stewardship;
• Outlining best practices on the production, use and waste management of plastics;
• Highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of plastic as a recyclable and recoverable material

Plastics New Zealand will work with members, customers, suppliers, local and central government, and the environmental sector to understand and communicate the benefits of plastic products by:

• Continually working to improve the sustainability of plastic materials and to demonstrate the industry’s role as a product steward; and
• Advocating plastic as a 21st century solution for a range of product types.