Sustainable return to school: how to reduce plastic in school supplies

School supplies are one of the main protagonists of the return to school season.

You have to prepare everything you need to face the new school year and buy all the necessary materials.

And inevitably, plastic waste is generated.

From backpacks to pencil cases and pens, many school supplies are made of single-use or low-durability plastic, contributing to environmental impact.

Fortunately, it’s possible to adopt sustainable habits that reduce plastic and encourage responsible education from an early age.

Choose durable and reusable school supplies

Opting for cases made of metal, wood, or durable fabric avoids the frequent purchase of disposable plastic products.

Backpacks made of fabric or recycled materials are more ecological and resistant.

Choosing durable items ensures they will last for several years, reducing waste and expenses in the long run.

Prioritize recycled or recyclable products

Look for notebooks, folders, and pens that are recyclable or made from recycled materials.

Wooden pencils and refillable pens help close the materials loop and prevent large amounts of plastic from ending up in landfills or the ocean.

Avoid single-use plastics

Replace disposable bottles, sleeves, and markers with reusable alternatives, such as stainless steel bottles and glass lunch boxes.

Many schools promote plastic-free snacks, making it easier to adopt these sustainable habits.

Teach children to take care of their equipment

Taking care of school supplies is key to prolonging their useful life.

Teaching children how to sharpen pencils properly, organize notebooks, and keep backpacks tidy fosters environmental responsibility from a young age.

Reuse and share school supplies

School supply exchanges allow notebooks, books, and pencil cases to be given a second life.

Reusing products reduces waste and teaches children the value of sharing and caring for resources.

Support sustainable brands

Choose companies committed to sustainability, that manufacture recyclable, durable products with minimal packaging.

Every responsible purchase helps reduce the ecological footprint and educates young people about conscious consumption.

Taking a sustainable approach to back-to-school is simple but impactful.

Reducing plastic, choosing durable and reusable materials, and teaching responsible habits helps protect the environment and fosters ecological awareness in younger generations.

At Baidal, we support sustainable solutions for the responsible use of plastic, starting with the school environment.

25 September, 2025 Uncategorized Comments Off on Sustainable return to school: how to reduce plastic in school supplies

Facts about industrial plastic recycling that will surprise you

Industrial plastic recycling is a key component in moving toward a sustainable circular economy.

In today’s blog, we discuss data that demonstrates the importance and challenges of this process in the industrial sector.

Spain, a European benchmark with real industrial capacity

Spain leads Europe in installed plastics recycling capacity, with more than 2.2 million tons per year.

Ranked second after Germany and notable for its population per capita.

This industrial infrastructure is crucial for transforming waste into valuable resources within the industry.

Growing domestic recycling: indirect injection into industry

Although the focus is industrial, domestic recycling influences the demand for recycled raw materials.

In 2024, Ecoembes managed the recycling of more than 1.56 million tons of household packaging.

A historic record that represents 5.4% growth compared to 2023.

A historic record that represents 5.4% growth compared to 2023.

These figures demonstrate a social commitment that fuels the industrial recycling cycle.

Sectoral innovation and sustainability on the rise

The Spanish Plastics Industry Strategy strengthens the use of recycled plastic, eco-design, and decarbonization through electrification and renewable energy.

Furthermore, it stands out for promoting both mechanical and chemical processes, and is committed to traceability through technologies such as blockchain.

At the 4th ANARPLA Congress, an installed recycling capacity of 2,227 kt was reported, managed by 160 companies and 185 active facilities.

Government impetus and citizen awareness

Despite progress, the yellow container shows persistent difficulties.

In 2023, only 41.3% of plastic bottles were recycled, well below the target of 70% by 2025.

This reinforces the need for a deposit, return, and refund system (DRRS).

Facts to keep in mind regarding industrial plastic recycling

  • Actual capacity:

Spain not only has the capacity, it is using it.

  • Cutting-edge technology:

Projects like pyrolysis in Huelva represent a leap forward in chemical recycling and the recovery of difficult-to-use plastics.

  • Volume on the rise:

Domestic recycling continues to grow, generating more recycled raw materials to re-enter production processes.

  • Strategic drive:

The national strategy, with investments in R&D&I and sustainability, consolidates an industrial vision aligned with climate neutrality.

  • Education and legislation united:

Innovations such as reward systems and the possible implementation of the SDDR reflect an evolving dynamic, where citizenship and politics mutually reinforce each other.

Positive impact of industrial plastic recycling

Energy savings and reduction of raw materials

Using recycled plastic means less oil and natural gas consumption and requires less energy than producing it from scratch.

Quality of post-industrial plastic

Post-industrial plastic is usually highly pure and suitable for reincorporation into the same production process or transformation into new products.

Thus avoiding unnecessary waste.

Circular economy and pollution reduction

Reusing industrial plastics promotes the circular economy and drastically reduces the environmental impact of waste.

Challenges and solutions to promote industrial plastic recycling

  • Material contamination:

The presence of impurities makes recycling difficult.

Implementing source separation strategies is crucial.

  • High logistics and technological costs:

The complexity of transportation and storage raises prices.

Optimizing the logistics chain and taking advantage of incentives can make all the difference.

  • Variability in the properties of recycled material:

This limits its use in demanding processes.

However, new bio-inspired designs are reducing this variability by up to 90%.

  • Insufficient regulation and eco-design:

Promoting clear standards and sustainable design practices would allow for a qualitative leap in industrial recycling.

Industrial plastic recycling has the potential to transform the plastics industry, generating environmental and economic benefits.

However, achieving a circular economy requires addressing technical, logistical, and regulatory challenges.

At Baidal, we believe that reporting with solid data is the first step in driving change.

27 August, 2025 Uncategorized Comments Off on Facts about industrial plastic recycling that will surprise you

Tips for better recycling in summer

It’s the middle of summer and you’re probably enjoying a well-deserved vacation.

And while we should have fun on our days off, we shouldn’t let our recycling get slack.

Summer is one of the times of year when we generate the most waste: bottles, containers, bags, disposable utensils…

All of this can have a huge impact on the environment if we don’t recycle properly.

At Baidal, as specialists in plastics recycling and processing, we want to help you recycle better during the warmer months.

Because every small gesture counts in building a more sustainable future.

Why is it more important to recycle in the summer?

During the summer, outdoor activities, travel, fast food, and the use of single-use products increase.

Consumption of cold drinks and packaged foods is also increasing, significantly increasing the amount of plastic waste.

If not managed properly, these wastes end up on beaches, rivers, forests, or in landfills, polluting our natural environment.

Therefore, adopting good recycling habits in the summer is not only important, it’s necessary.

7 practical tips for recycling better in summer

At Baidal, we want recycling to be easy, convenient, and part of your routine, even on vacation.

Here are some tips you can apply starting today:

1. Learn about local containers

If you’re on vacation in another city or country, check how the local recycling system works.

Colors and categories may vary.

Having this information on hand prevents errors and ensures that your waste is recycled correctly.

2. Always carry a bag to separate waste

Whether at the beach, in the mountains, or at a barbecue, have a bag handy for plastic, cans, or paper.

Separating waste at the time makes it much easier to recycle later.

3. Avoid the use of single-use plastics

Reusable bottles, bamboo cutlery, Tupperware, and cloth bags are excellent options for reducing waste.

At Baidal, we work every day to give plastic a second life, but the most sustainable option is always to reduce its consumption.

4. Clean containers before throwing them away

A common mistake is to throw away dirty containers or containers with food leftovers.

This can contaminate other recyclable materials.

A quick rinse is all it takes to ensure proper sorting.

5. Recycle outside the home too

Many people think that recycling is only done at home.

But more and more public spaces (beaches, parks, shopping centers) have separate containers.

Use them and set an example.

6. Be a conscious consumer

Choose products with recyclable or biodegradable packaging.

Check the labels and choose brands that support recycling and the circular economy.

7. Educate and share

If you have children or are with friends, talk about the importance of recycling. Involving others and encouraging sustainable habits multiplies the positive impact.

Recycling and circular economy

At Baidal, we are dedicated to the recovery and transformation of plastics to give them a new useful life.

We work with industries, distributors, and manufacturers that focus on high-quality recycled materials and a more environmentally friendly production model.

We promote responsible practices that help reduce the environmental footprint.

We turn waste into resources, closing the plastic cycle with technology, innovation, and environmental commitment.

🌱 Together, we’re giving plastic a second chance.

 

22 July, 2025 Uncategorized Comments Off on Tips for better recycling in summer

What is traceability in recycling and why is it important for manufacturers?

One of the key concepts that has gained great relevance in the circular economy is traceability in recycling.

But what does this term really mean, and why has it become essential for companies working with recycled materials like plastic?

What is traceability in recycling?

Traceability in recycling refers to the ability to track recycled materials throughout the entire value chain.

From its origin as waste, through the collection, classification, and transformation process, to its reincorporation as a raw material in new products.

In other words, it is the process that allows us to verify the origin, type, quantity, and treatment of recycled materials.

This ensures that they come from sustainable sources and have been processed in accordance with environmental and quality regulations.

Why is it important for manufacturers?

Traceability is not only a technical tool, but also a strategic element for manufacturers for several reasons:

1. Regulatory compliance

More and more countries and regions are requiring companies to demonstrate the use of certified recycled materials in their products.

Traceability allows manufacturers to comply with local and international regulations.

Such as European regulations on the circular economy or the sustainability requirements of large supply chains.

2. Transparency and trust

Consumers are more aware than ever of the environmental impact of the products they buy.

Having a traceability system allows manufacturers to transparently communicate their commitment to recycling.

Adding value to your brand and building trust in the market.

3. Quality control

Knowing exactly where recycled material comes from and how it has been treated helps maintain consistent quality standards in final products.

This is especially important in industries such as automotive, construction, and food packaging, where safety and durability are key.

4. Process optimization

Traceability also allows companies to analyze their supply chain, identify bottlenecks, and make informed decisions to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

5. Competitive advantage

In a business environment where sustainability is a differentiating value, implementing traceability in recycling positions companies as responsible and innovative leaders.

Which can translate into new business opportunities and strategic partnerships.

How is traceability implemented in plastics recycling?

Effective traceability requires the use of standardized technology and processes. This includes:

  • Labeling and coding of materials during the collection and separation process.

  • Digital tracking systems, such as ERP software, blockchain, or specific platforms for environmental traceability.

  • Third-party certification that guarantees the transparency of the process.

  • Collaboration with trusted suppliers, such as BPL Plastic, that ensure the quality and sustainability of recycled materials.

At Baidal, we understand that traceability is essential to building a more sustainable future.

That’s why we offer our customers recycled plastics through controlled, auditable, and certified processes that guarantee both quality and regulatory compliance.

Traceability in recycling is not a passing fad; it’s a pillar of the circular economy and a key tool for manufacturers to respond to demands for sustainability, quality, and transparency.

Adopting it is not only an ethical and legal obligation, but also an opportunity to innovate, differentiate ourselves, and lead the change toward a more responsible industry.

25 June, 2025 Uncategorized Comments Off on What is traceability in recycling and why is it important for manufacturers?

Recycled Plastic vs. Recyclable Plastic: What’s the Difference?

Plastic remains one of the most widely used and debated materials.

Terms like “recycled plastic” and “recyclable plastic” often cause confusion.

Although they sound similar, they do not mean the same thing and have very different implications for the environment.

If you want to better understand these concepts and how they affect our consumer decisions, continue reading our blog.

What is Recyclable Plastic?

Recyclable plastic is plastic that has the potential to be recycled.

That is, it can be processed to become a new product or material.

However, just because a plastic is recyclable does not guarantee that it will actually be recycled.

Some factors that influence its recyclability include:

✅ Plastic type:

Not all plastics are equally recyclable.

The most commonly recycled are PET (water bottles) and HDPE (detergent containers).

✅ Recycling infrastructure:

If there are no adequate recycling centers or if plastic is not collected effectively, it will end up in landfills or in the environment.

✅ Cleaning conditions:

Plastics that are dirty or contaminated with food residue, oil, or other materials may be rejected by recycling plants.

🔹 Examples of recyclable plastics:

Soft drink bottles (PET), milk containers (HDPE), yogurt containers (PP), some packaging plastics.

What is Recycled Plastic?

Recycled plastic is plastic that has already gone through a recycling process and has been reused to make new products.

That is, it is not only recyclable, but it has already been recycled and turned into something new.

Using recycled plastic has important benefits, such as:

♻️ Reduction in the use of virgin plastic

Demand for oil and other natural resources used to make new plastic is decreasing.

♻️ Less waste in landfills and oceans

Help reduce the amount of plastic that ends up polluting the planet.

♻️ Smaller carbon footprint

The manufacturing process with recycled plastic typically requires less energy than producing new plastic.

🔹 Examples of recycled plastic:

Clothing made from recycled PET bottles, street furniture made from recycled plastic, and packaging that indicates it has been manufactured with “X% recycled material.”

Which is Better for the Environment?

The answer depends on several factors, but generally speaking, recycled plastic has a more positive environmental impact than recyclable plastic.

  • Recyclable plastic that isn’t recycled ends up in landfills or the ocean, where it can take hundreds of years to degrade.

  • Recycled plastic has already been reused, reducing the need to produce more virgin plastic.

However, recycling is not the only solution.

It’s also essential to reduce the use of single-use plastics and promote more sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable or reusable packaging.

Although the terms “recycled plastic” and “recyclable plastic” may seem similar, they have key differences.

A recyclable plastic has the potential to be recycled, but this depends on factors such as recycling infrastructure and cleaning.

On the other hand, recycled plastic has already been processed and reused, which reduces its environmental impact.

To contribute to a more sustainable world, it’s not enough to simply choose recyclable plastics.

We must ensure that they are actually recycled and encourage the use of recycled materials.

Furthermore, the best option will always be to reduce the consumption of unnecessary plastics and opt for more environmentally friendly alternatives.

15 April, 2025 Uncategorized Comments Off on Recycled Plastic vs. Recyclable Plastic: What’s the Difference?

Benefits of recycling post-industrial plastic

Recycling plastic is one of the most effective strategies to reduce pollution and promote sustainability in the industry.

Post-industrial plastic has become a key resource for many companies seeking to minimize their environmental impact and optimize their production processes.

In today’s blog we talk about the main benefits of recycling post-industrial plastic and its importance for the future of the planet.

What is post-industrial plastic?

Post-industrial plastic (PIR) comes from waste generated in factories and manufacturing processes before products reach the final consumer.

post-industrial plastic

Unlike post-consumer plastic, which is recycled after it has been used, post-industrial plastic is easier to recover because it has not been contaminated with other materials.

Examples of post-industrial plastic include:

  • Manufacturing offcuts and scrap.
  • Defective or surplus materials.
  • Mold and extrusion residues in production.

Reducing waste in landfills

One of the main benefits of recycling post-industrial plastic is the reduction of waste ending up in landfills.

The industry generates tons of plastic every day.

And if these materials are not recycled, they can take hundreds of years to decompose.

By recycling this waste, landfills are not saturated and environmental pollution is reduced.

In addition, greenhouse gas emissions associated with the decomposition of plastic in unsuitable environments are reduced.

Saving natural resources

Plastic is primarily made from petroleum and natural gas.

These resources are non-renewable and their extraction and processing have a high environmental impact.

Post-industrial plastic recycling allows existing materials to be reused, reducing the demand for new raw materials.

This not only contributes to the conservation of natural resources, but also reduces energy consumption in the production of new plastics.

Lower energy consumption in production

Recycling post-industrial plastic requires less energy compared to manufacturing virgin plastic.

According to various studies, the use of recycled plastic in production can reduce energy consumption by up to 70% in some cases.

Lower energy consumption means:
– Lower costs for companies.
– Less dependence on fossil fuels.
– Less carbon emissions in the production process.

Promoting the circular economy

Recycling post-industrial plastic is a key practice within the circular economy.

A model that seeks to reduce waste and extend the useful life of materials.

Instead of throwing away plastics after their initial use, companies can reintroduce them into the production cycle, creating a more efficient and sustainable system.

This generates multiple economic and environmental benefits, such as:

  • Reduction of production costs.
  • Creation of new business models based on reuse.
  • Greater independence from virgin raw materials.

Compliance with environmental regulations

More and more governments and international organizations are imposing strict regulations on the management of plastic waste.

Companies that implement post-industrial plastic recycling can comply with environmental regulations.

And in this way, avoid sanctions or taxes related to pollution.

Additionally, many companies that recycle plastic can obtain sustainability certifications.

Which improves their reputation and makes them more attractive to customers and business partners.

Innovation in new recycled materials

Post-industrial plastic recycling drives innovation in the industry, enabling the development of high-quality recycled materials.

Nowadays, there are recycled plastics that retain the same mechanical and chemical properties as virgin plastics, allowing their use in sectors such as:

  • Automotive
  • Sustainable packaging.
  • Construction
  • Textile industry (recycled synthetic fabrics).

Thanks to these advances, recycled plastic has become a viable and efficient alternative in many industrial sectors.

Improvement of corporate image

Companies that implement recycling and sustainability policies gain consumer preference.

In a world where environmental awareness is on the rise, brands that opt ​​for recycled materials can strengthen their reputation and differentiate themselves from the competition.

Consumers increasingly value companies that are committed to the environment, which translates into greater loyalty and trust in the brand.

Recycling post-industrial plastic is not only a sustainable practice, but also provides economic, energy and strategic benefits for companies.

From reducing waste to saving resources and complying with regulations, this process is key to moving towards a more circular and efficient economy.

The industry has the opportunity to transform recycling into a competitive advantage by adopting innovative technologies and promoting responsible practices.

The future of plastic depends on how we manage it today, and post-industrial recycling is a big step in the right direction.

25 February, 2025 Uncategorized Comments Off on Benefits of recycling post-industrial plastic

Plastic recycling helps reduce pollution in marine life

Plastic has become one of the biggest environmental problems of our time. As the amounts of plastic waste in the oceans increase, marine life is severely affected. The effects of plastic pollution in the oceans threaten the biodiversity and health of aquatic ecosystems. Fortunately, plastic recycling can be a key tool to mitigate this damage. In this month’s article we talk about the impact of plastic on the oceans and how recycling can help in this situation.

The Threat of Plastic to Marine Life

Every year, millions of tons of plastic end up in the oceans. This highly resistant material can take hundreds of years to completely decompose. Meanwhile, it fragments into smaller pieces, known as microplastics. These tiny particles are ingested by fish and other marine species, causing health problems and, in many cases, death.

Animals like turtles and dolphins often mistake plastic bags and other waste for food. By ingesting these plastics, their digestive systems become clogged. This prevents them from eating properly and eventually leads them to starve to death. Seabirds are also victims of this pollution, as they often collect pieces of floating plastic thinking it is food for their young. The marine food chain is compromised when predators ingest animals contaminated with microplastics.

This affects all marine biodiversity and, ultimately, humans who consume seafood. Plastic pollution in the oceans thus represents a threat not only to marine ecosystems, but also to human health.

Plastic Recycling: A Sustainable Solution

Faced with this serious problem, plastic recycling is presented as a solution. By recycling plastic, we prevent these materials from ending up in the seas. Additionally, recycling reduces the need to produce more plastic, which reduces oil consumption and greenhouse gas emissions related to its manufacturing. At an individual level, we can contribute to plastic recycling through small actions.

We must correctly classify our waste and use recycling points. It is important to remember that recycling not only reduces pollution, but also allows plastic to be turned into new products, such as clothing, furniture and packaging. In this way, the demand for natural resources is reduced and the extraction of raw materials is reduced. This aspect is key to preserving ecosystems and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, recycling promotes the circular economy, in which materials are reused and reincorporated into the production cycle, instead of being discarded. This not only contributes to a more responsible and sustainable consumption model. But it also generates employment opportunities in the recycling industry and in the development of technologies for waste treatment. By giving new life to materials such as plastic, we contribute to a more efficient use of resources. At the same time we promote a cleaner and more habitable planet for future generations.

Commitment is everything

Therefore, it is essential that we all commit to recycling and reducing our consumption of single-use plastics. With small daily actions, such as separating waste at home and choosing products made from recycled materials, each of us can be part of the change towards a more sustainable future.

 

26 November, 2024 Uncategorized Comments Off on Plastic recycling helps reduce pollution in marine life

Recycling plastics in the food sector: challenges and solutions

Plastic recycling in the food sector has become an important issue in the sustainability debate. As environmental awareness grows and regulations tighten, the food industry is looking to reduce its ecological footprint. Here, plastic management plays a key role. This sector faces a number of specific challenges that must be overcome in order to meet societal and regulatory expectations. In today’s blog, we discuss the main challenges facing plastic recycling in the food industry, as well as some of the solutions that are already in place to improve the situation.

The challenges of plastic recycling in the food sector

Pollution and food safety

One of the main obstacles to recycling plastics in the food sector is the strict regulations related to food safety.

Plastic packaging that has been in contact with food must meet high standards of purity to avoid contamination. This means that even if plastic can be recycled, it is not always possible to reuse it to make new food packaging. Especially if the recycled material does not guarantee the necessary safety or quality. Recycled plastics that contain food residues or that have absorbed chemicals during their life cycle can become a source of contamination. The recycling process must therefore be extremely rigorous. This increases the costs and complexity of the process.

Complexity of plastic materials

The food industry uses a wide variety of plastic types, from PET (polyethylene terephthalate) for bottles and rigid containers, to low-density polyethylene (LDPE) for bags and packaging.

Each type of plastic requires a specific recycling process, which complicates waste management and sorting. In addition, many food products come in composite packaging, which combines several types of plastics or even other materials such as paper or aluminium. These multi-layer materials are particularly difficult to recycle, as separating them efficiently is expensive and technologically complex.

Low effective recycling rate

Although plastic recycling in general has increased in recent years, the effective recycling rate for plastics in the food sector remains low. This is because many consumers do not separate properly.

Limited infrastructure

Although technologies exist to recycle plastics, the infrastructure available to carry out this process on a global scale remains limited.

Many recycling plants are not equipped to process food-grade plastics, which reduces recycling rates in the sector.

Solutions for recycling plastics in the food sector

New technological and strategic solutions are emerging to address this problem more effectively:

Chemical recycling

Chemical recycling is one of the most promising solutions. Unlike mechanical recycling, which can only reprocess relatively high-quality plastics, chemical recycling breaks down plastics into their basic chemical components, allowing them to be reconverted into virgin materials.

Biodegradable and compostable plastics

Biodegradable and compostable plastics are gaining ground in the food sector.

Although they are not a direct solution to recycling, they can alleviate the burden of plastic waste, if properly managed in industrial composting infrastructures.

Ecodesign for recyclability

Companies are adopting eco-design to create plastic packaging that is easier to recycle. This includes reducing composite materials that are difficult to separate and eliminating inks and adhesives that contaminate the recycling stream. Eliminating plastic in the food sector is practically impossible today. That is why we must look for alternatives that facilitate its recycling or reuse.

22 October, 2024 Uncategorized Comments Off on Recycling plastics in the food sector: challenges and solutions

Recycling vs Disposal. What is the best option for plastic?

Plastic has become one of the big problems in our society. It is one of the most versatile and used materials in the modern world. However, its durability and resilience also make it a significant environmental threat. Every day, tons of plastics end up in landfills, rivers and oceans, causing harm to marine life and contaminating entire ecosystems. Faced with this crisis, two major approaches emerge to manage plastic waste: recycling and disposal. But what is really the best option?

Plastic problem: Why is its correct management crucial?

 

Before looking at solutions, it’s important to understand the scope of the plastic problem. Plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose. plastic waste management

During that time, it can fragment into microplastics that contaminate soil, water and living organisms. Despite global efforts to reduce plastic consumption, production of this material continues to increase. Much of the discarded plastic ends up in landfills or is incinerated. While another part ends up recycled. Hence the question of what to do with plastic, whether to recycle it or eliminate it, is increasingly relevant.

Recycling: Advantages and challenges

Advantages of plastic recycling

Recycling is one of the most effective solutions to manage plastic waste. The process involves collecting, sorting and transforming used plastic into new products. The advantages of recycling are several: Reduction of waste
: Recycling prevents large amounts of plastic from ending up in landfills or the environment, reducing pollution. Saving resources
: By recycling plastic, the need to produce new plastic from non-renewable resources such as oil is reduced. This reduces the environmental impact related to the extraction and production of these materials. Decreased carbon footprint
: Recycling plastic generally requires less energy than producing virgin plastic. This translates into a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Challenges of plastic recycling

Despite its benefits, plastic recycling faces several obstacles that limit its effectiveness: Technical difficulties: Not all types of plastic can be recycled. plastic recycling Some plastics are difficult to process due to their mixed composition. Insufficient infrastructure: In many countries, the infrastructure for collecting and processing plastic waste is inadequate.

Elimination of plastic: Advantages and risks

Plastic disposal methods

Plastic disposal often refers to incineration or landfilling. These methods have some advantages: Volume reduction: Incineration can significantly reduce the volume of plastic waste, reducing pressure on landfills. Energy recovery: Some modern incineration systems allow energy to be recovered from burned plastic, which can be used to generate electricity.

Risks and disadvantages of disposal

However, disposal also presents significant environmental and social risks: Emission of pollutants: Incineration of plastics generates toxic emissions, such as dioxins and furans, which can be dangerous to human health and the environment if not properly controlled. waste burning Although technology has advanced, not all countries have access to secure facilities. Soil and water pollution: Landfilling plastics remains the most common option, but these materials can take centuries to decompose, leaching toxic substances into soil and groundwater. Loss of resources: By burning or burying plastic, the opportunity to reuse a valuable resource is wasted. This contributes to the continued extraction of oil and other non-renewable materials to produce more plastic.

What is the best option?

The answer to this question is not simple, as it depends on several factors, such as the type of plastic, local infrastructure, and environmental priorities. However, recycling appears to be a preferable option in most cases due to its potential to reduce pollution, save resources, and decrease carbon emissions. It is also necessary to improve recycling efficiency, educate consumers about the correct separation of waste and promote technological innovations that allow a greater variety of plastics to be recycled. At the same time, it is crucial that companies and governments adopt policies that favor the design of more sustainable and recyclable plastic products. On the other hand, the elimination of plastic, although useful in certain contexts, should be considered as a last option, especially if it involves incineration without emissions control or its disposal in landfills. The best solution to the plastic problem lies not only in choosing between recycling or eliminating, but in adopting a comprehensive strategy that includes reduction,
recycling and, where necessary, controlled disposal. By combining these strategies, we can reduce the environmental impact of plastic and move towards a more sustainable future.

24 September, 2024 Uncategorized Comments Off on Recycling vs Disposal. What is the best option for plastic?

Challenges and Solutions in Post-Industrial Plastic Recycling

Post-industrial plastic recycling is an important topic in the context of sustainability and the circular economy.

Companies that produce or use large quantities of industrial plastics face the challenge of managing waste responsibly.

However, the recycling process of these plastics is not without difficulties. In today’s article we talk about the main challenges that companies face in recycling post-industrial plastics.

What is post-industrial plastic?

Post-industrial plastic refers to plastic waste generated during the manufacturing of products.

 

These wastes can include leftover materials, production defects, production surpluses, and other byproducts of the industrial process.

Unlike post-consumer plastic, which comes from products discarded by consumers, post-industrial plastic has not been used in its final form.

Therefore, it often has a higher recycling value.

Challenges in recycling post-industrial plastics

1. Material contamination

One of the biggest challenges in post-industrial plastic recycling is material contamination.

During the manufacturing process, plastics can become contaminated with residues from other materials.

This contamination can make efficient recycling difficult.

This is because contaminated materials cannot be processed effectively and may compromise the quality of the recycled product.

Solution: To address this problem, companies must implement rigorous sorting and cleaning processes at the initial recycling stage.

Using advanced separation technologies, such as density separation or optical sorting, can help reduce material contamination and improve the purity of recycled plastic.

2. Diversity of plastic types

Another important challenge is the diversity of types of plastic that are generated in industrial processes.

There are numerous types of plastics, each with different properties and recycling requirements. Mixing different types of plastics can complicate the recycling process and reduce the quality of the final product.

Solution: Companies must invest in sorting plastics at the source. Identifying and separating different types of plastics during the production process can facilitate subsequent recycling.

Additionally, working with recycling providers who have experience managing different types of plastics is crucial to ensuring an efficient process.

3. Recycling costs

Recycling post-industrial plastics can be expensive, especially if the implementation of new technologies or additional processes is required.

 

 

Costs may include investment in machinery, staff training, and management of non-recyclable waste.

Solution: Companies can reduce recycling costs by optimizing production processes to minimize waste.

Adopting design practices for recycling, such as using recyclable materials and simplifying product composition, can reduce the amount of waste generated and therefore recycling costs.

Additionally, exploring tax incentives or government subsidies for recycling can help mitigate costs.

4. Complexity in logistics

The logistics of post-industrial plastics recycling also present significant challenges.

Collecting, transporting and storing large volumes of plastic waste can be complicated and expensive. Additionally, the need to ensure that plastics are transported and stored in a way that prevents contamination or deterioration adds an additional layer of complexity.

Solution: Implementing efficient and sustainable logistics is key to overcoming this challenge.

Companies can work with logistics partners specialized in plastic waste management to optimize transportation routes, reduce costs and minimize environmental impact.

Additionally, implementing temporary storage systems at facilities can help better manage waste streams prior to recycling.

Post-industrial plastic recycling is essential to reduce the environmental impact of industrial waste and promote a circular economy.

Overcoming these challenges requires a strategic approach and investment in technology, logistics and staff training.

By adopting effective solutions, companies can not only improve their recycling efficiency, but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

Recycling post-industrial plastics is not an easy task. But with the right strategies, companies can overcome obstacles and take advantage of both the economic and environmental benefits that this process offers.

27 August, 2024 Uncategorized Comments Off on Challenges and Solutions in Post-Industrial Plastic Recycling
Search
Recent Posts
Recent Comments
    Archives
    Categories
    Meta