A number of key associations in the plastic industry, including the Plastic Technology Centre, the Spanish Association of Industrial Plastics, the Valencian Association of Plastic Companies, CICLOPLAST, and PlasticsEurope, have worked together to produce a document that reveals the benefits of plastic and the best way to respect the environment. This new document forms part of the campaign #dontblameplastic.

For years, plastic has been presented in a negative light. It has been blamed for almost all of the environmental problems that exist and countless negative articles have been published blaming plastic for killing marine life and highlighting the risks that the material poses to our health. However, many of these accusations are far from being completely accurate. In fact, plastic is a sustainable material and brings many benefits to our lives through technological, medical, and industrial applications.

In an attempt to clear up the myths surrounding plastic, the Plastic Technology Centre has contributed to the viral campaign #dontblameplastic by revealing some important truths that will help both business and individuals to use and recycle plastic in a responsible way.

Plastic has some key advantages as it is an immensely versatile material thats useage offers positive results for human life.

1. It is completely safe to use. Plastic is submitted for more extensive testing than other materials and also has to be made according to strict international standards.
2. It preserves food and therefore reduces waste. Food can be stored for a longer period of time without losing any of its original quality.
3. It can be used in advanced medicines. Plastic saves lives in its regular use in the pharmaceutical industry, including during surgery and in bionic applications.
4. It has helps to keep us safe. Plastic plays an important role in security systems, including fire prevention systems, vehicle airbags, and seat belts
5. It is long-lasting and can help save on resources. 60% of plastic products last between 5 and 50 years and can be used to create durable products.
6. It helps conserve valuable oil reserves. Only between 4% and 6% of the European consumption of oil is dedicated to making plastic.
7. It helps to save water and energy and also reduces carbon dioxide emissions. Thanks to plastic, cars emit less emissions and efficient irrigation can be implemented in the agriculture industry to save water.
8. It is recyclable.

Nortpalet: sustainable plastic pallets

Considering the many benefits of plastic, one can understand Nortpalet’s reliance on the material for the manufacturing of pallets. The business has a strong commitment to protecting the environment and works only with sustainable parts in order to develop products that extend the life of goods, from production through to when they are recycled.

Plastic does not harm the environment if it is used and managed in the correct way and is in fact, a sustainable choice of material. It is important that consumers act more responsibly through waste management and recycling, which will allow companies such as Nortpalet to continue sustainable practices in order to meet consumer demand whilst also considering the environment.