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From #plasticfree to future-proof plastics: how to use plastics in a circular economy. Summary
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This report summarized the state of knowledge on plastics in a circular economy, arguing that neither unlimited plastic use nor complete elimination is feasible, and outlining science-based pathways to design, produce, and use plastics more sustainably while reducing microplastic pollution.
From #plasticfree to future-proof plastics How to use plastics in a circular economy State-of-the-artPlastics are shrouded in controversial debates.While manufacturers highlight their benefits, more and more stakeholders refer to the problems associated with them: a considerable share in humanity's greenhouse gas emissions, plastic litter and microplastics polluting almost all environments, fossil resource depletion and import dependency.Neither continuing with the unlimited use of plastics, nor the radical renunciation appear to be reasonable or even feasible paths from a scientific and social perspective.We must develop a new, sustainable way of designing and using plastics.This will not be limited to minor adjustments but requires radical changes or even abandonment of previous values, production schemes and usage practices.
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