Further recycle for a Sustainable Planet The chemical and plastics industry is making progress in the sustainability adaptation process by focusing on reducing production emissions and increasing the recycled content. Many companies; carries out R&D activities for investing in advanced chemical recycling, alternative bio-based options and their infrastructure systems. In addition, it tries to adapt to this process by taking steps such as implementing sustainable production practices in the sector and increasing the use of recycled materials in its products.
Industry Challenges, Risks and Opportunities
The chemcal and plastics industry is on a sustainability journey that covers all stages from the cradle to the grave. Risks and challenges bring with them the potential for many opportunities.
1. Raw Material Impact
The refined petroleum products are the main resources of chemical and plastic industry. Therefore, the main focus of the sector should be on reducing the dependecy on the fossil raw materials. Bio alternatives should be evaluated if they actually have less environmental impact. But the main focus is chemical recyccling and overall increasing the recycled content.
2. Market Demand
With the growing interest in sustainable products, consumer demand for eco-friendly cars and materials is increasing. Different markets may have common demands regarding sustainability. Studies carried out within this framework will be an opportunity to stand out in the market.
3. Regulations
The chemical and plastics industry is strictly regulated and requires strict compliance with environmental standards. Companies operating in the European market, in particular, may face many legal expectations, from emission limits per kilogram to the use of recycled materials.
4. Technology Constraints
As advanced chemical recycling and other promising sustainable technologies evolve rapidly, there are technical limitations that will make it difficult for companies to transition into fully sustainable practices. For example, bio-based products may have limited lifetime, and renewable energy sources may not yet be reliable enough to power large manufacturing plants. For this reason, a holistic approach is always necessary.
What Can We Do Together?
Various studies can be conducted on product sustainability and corporate sustainability in the automotive industry, one of the sectors in which Metsims, who has nearly 20 years of experience in sustainability. We are always ready to join your sustainability journey with our experiences, such as product LCA/EPD, emission technologies, environmental effects of plastic and chemical recycling, sustainability strategy and business model development, and sustainability action plan. Discover our competencies in this field and meet our experts!
Meet our Consultants in the Chemicals and Plastics Industry
Ali Rüzgar
Sustainability Senior Advisor
Gülbahar Korkusuz
Senior Sustainability Advisor
Ali Rüzgar
Sustainability Senior Advisor
Gülbahar Korkusuz
Senior Sustainability Advisor