Think about all of the items you use on a daily basis. What is it packaged in? Chances are it is made out of some form of plastic or another non-biodegradable material. Plastic production is a growing concern across the globe, and may contribute to environmental challenges. Reducing reliance on plastics could help decrease waste and minimize the impact on natural resources. By investing in biodegradable materials, cutting back on plastic production, and enhancing recycling technology, societies have a chance to foster positive environmental outcomes. Acting sooner rather than later could help reduce the negative effects that plastic waste may have on the planet. Working together on the manufacturing and household level might encourage meaningful progress.
Plastic production is actually growing out of control. Studies show that 500 billion plastic bags are used each year, and 50% of plastic as a whole is used only once. These numbers show that plastic is a main material used in people’s daily lives, but recycling processes are not always able to keep up with the production.
One of the main reasons plastic can be harmful to the environment is because it is not biodegradable and in some cases can take up to nearly 1,000 years to break down and decompose. Not only could this harm the actual soil people live on, but it may also affect animals and their habitats. The creation of plastic also produces greenhouse gasses that are known to contribute to global warming and climate change. Increasing investment in recycling efforts could help alleviate some environmental strain.
“Every American throws away 4.5 pounds of trash daily, but only 21% is recycled. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation aims to change this by holding CPG companies and packaging manufacturers accountable for their packaging’s entire lifecycle, including end-of-life disposal,” says JD Ambati, Founder & CEO of EverestLabs.
One of the ways to begin sustainability and recycling measures is for government entities to enact EPR laws that could set specific recycling goals for companies. Currently, only seven states have these laws, so a broader push toward sustainability could help build momentum toward a greener future.
Manufacturing companies can also switch to more environmentally friendly materials for their packaging instead of relying on plastics. Not only could this help the environment if items are missed during the recycling process, but it may also encourage consumers to shop sustainably. If people are offered options for purchasing sustainable packaging and materials, growing demand could gradually benefit the environment.
Investing in technology is another way for CPG companies to support sustainability initiatives. If EPR laws are enacted, innovative technology such as AI robots could make the recycling process more efficient and accurate, helping to ensure that recyclable materials are not getting left behind and thrown into landfills. This technology might also identify new materials and sort them properly, potentially increasing recycling efficiency.
“AI-driven robotics can be a game-changer for these companies, ensuring proper sorting of packaging materials, diverting waste from landfills, and providing valuable data on recycling rates. This data helps optimize packaging design and material choices, advancing the circular economy,” says Ambati.
There are many ways to cut back on plastic production, but these strategies represent key steps that could be initiated now. Supporting environmental responsibility might positively impact ecosystems and human health alike. Shifting toward recycling and decreasing plastic reliance are two potentially impactful ways to contribute to a more sustainable world. How can you start making sustainable changes in your everyday life?
Published by: Martin De Juan
