Finding a truly sustainable system
Polymers are used in multiple sectors and are of many different types. For us to move to a truly sustainable system we need supply chains to adopt molecular husbandry for each type of polymer utilising current infrastructure and also develop new infrastructure where none currently exists. And we must do this on a global scale.
Almost all polymer products are currently made from virgin polymers irrespective of the sector in which they are used. At end of life most polymer products are not converted into new products but are burnt or sent to landfill, or worse, end up fugitive in the environment. Depending on the country and infrastructure recycling rates range from 5-60% internationally. Whilst we are rightly working in the main on short-lived single use packaging at UKCPN we are also involved with supporting those other sectors utilising significant polymer volumes through our focus areas.
Smart Sustainable Plastic Packaging Challenge
The SSPP challenge is working to make plastic packaging fit for a sustainable future. As a £60 million five-year programme, it is the largest and most ambitious UK government investment to date in sustainable plastics research and innovation. The challenge is underpinned by the delivery of the 2025 UK Plastics Pact targets. SSPP’s ambition is to establish the UK as a leading innovator in smart and sustainable plastic packaging for consumer products. UKCPN is the lead collaboration building partner for the SSPP challenge.
