The Plastics Transition 2050 Roadmap from PlasticsEurope
The PlasticsEurope association recently published a new roadmap outlining the plastics industry's collective efforts to achieve a net-zero future and a circular economy. It is bold, yet realistic, and clearly outlines a path for the plastics industry.
The roadmap includes some of the highlights and collaborations we need to see more of, such as more open discussions with policy makers on sustainable transitions and the creation of a consistent, legally binding policy and regulatory framework within the European Union. We also need more robust strategies to accelerate investment and an efficient waste management system that is in line with the principles of a circular economy – both of which are essential to achieve our goal of net zero emissions.
The roadmap can be seen as our industry’s ‘north star’ and the missing link in bringing plastics manufacturers and our value chains closer by facilitating sustainability initiatives which enhance the competitiveness of industries across Europe and the broader European economy. The fact remains that plastics are indispensable in numerous applications and sectors that form the basis of our evolving world. This new roadmap represents the collective efforts of Europe’s plastics industry, showcasing a wealth of innovative problem solving and dedication to addressing waste management and the climate emergency.
Let’s not think about net-zero as a challenge, but a tremendous opportunity for innovation and growth. New technologies, materials and circular models are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future, with increasing demand for innovative, sustainably produced plastics. And our industry has to be at the forefront of this ongoing revolution.
The plastics industry has a significant role to play in addressing global environmental challenges at a European level, and the roadmap proves that the circular economy is the key driver to reach net-zero, with circular plastics projected to reduce total annual carbon emissions by 55% by 2050. It hints at boosting circularity to 65% in Europe by then, with a decreased reliance on primary fossil-based plastics down to 35%.
Manufacturers and value chain organisations need to be united in our common vision to not only make our pledged actions a reality but to fully regain our competitiveness in Europe.
At Covestro, we are already growing our direct contracts with energy suppliers via Purchase Power Agreements – especially around wind. And all of our major global sites are now certified by the internationally recognised ISCC PLUS standard which is needed to process mass-balanced precursors and produce respective circular products. Both mechanical and chemical recycling are crucial for our development and our innovation is constantly pushing the limits on these technologies.
Most importantly, we all have to act now to promote greater and increased collaboration. This is not just a call to industry, but for our value chain partners and policymakers to consider our aspirations, respective responsibilities and the necessary conditions and incentives for turning this transition into a tangible achievement.
PlasticsEurope ‘The Plastics Transition’ Roadmap: The Plastics Transition • PlasticsEurope