Despite the common perception of plastics having a negative contribution to the environment, research shows that plastics can in fact have less of an environmental impact than other materials. A move from plastic to any alternative material comes at a higher environmental impact and cost. Studies on the environmental cost of plastics in consumer goods have shown to be 3.8 times less than the alternative materials needed to replace plastic.
In fact, society benefits in numerous ways from plastic, as plastic-packaged food can actually last longer hence, food waste is reduced. Also, Pipe facilities also use plastic in clean drinking water supplies, as well as medical devices, surgical equipment, and drips.
Additionally, carbon dioxide emissions are reduced in transport owing to lightweight plastic packaging. Therefore, plastic packaging can in ways reduce our carbon footprint in comparison to alternative materials like aluminum paper, steel, and glass. This is achieved through investment in new materials and technologies and implementation of new procedures that lead to increased sustainability.
There are various sustainability initiatives that are integrated into daily operations in order to reduce our carbon footprint and offer more affordable options. In terms of reducing companies’ consumption of natural gas, high-efficiency Air Makeup Systems are installed and there have been conversions to process heating systems. Airflow in and out of the building is controlled which eliminates the need for natural gas as a heating source. It also reduces contamination and creates a better working environment.
Additionally, new solar energy systems have been implemented, and the energy consumed in factories is now enhanced with power from solar panels. This interchanges on-site electric usage with solar energy that is both clean and renewable and can generate over 14 million kWh of energy over 25 years.
Moreover, there are utility/recycled grades of materials produced which provides customers with a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. This process involves already processed materials that would otherwise be wasted, and re-uses it in a utility-grade material which is a sustainable way to cut down on waste and offer a lower-cost alternative for customers. Rail sites as a primary means of raw material delivery have also significantly reduced fuel consumption since using this method for raw material delivery permits company-wide fuel consumption savings of thousands of trucks each year.
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