Plastics in the Environment
The plastics industry is committed to developing products and implementing practices that can contribute to a cleaner, safer and better world.
ACC’s Plastics Division comprises many plastic-producing members of the American Chemistry Council (ACC). Through their association with ACC, these companies work toward making continuous progress in environmental, health, safety and security performance through the implementation the Responsible Care® initiative and participate in other ACC product stewardship programs.
Learn more about plastics and the environment:
- Energy Recovery
Energy recovery is the process by which municipal solid waste is converted into renewable energy. Energy recovery is happening right now, powering homes and businesses, and it’s helping to address our growing population’s biggest challenges: energy independence, waste diversion, and climate change. » learn more.
- Resource Conservation
Conserving resources means using less raw materials and energy throughout a product's life cycle from development through disposal or recycling. Plastics are derived from natural resources – typically oil and natural gas. And yet, in part because of plastics' unique characteristics – lightweight, durability, formability – they can conserve more resources during a product's life when compared to some other materials. » learn more.
- Plastic Recycling and Beyond
The plastics industry supports recycling that is sustainable, economical and environmentally responsible. Since 1990, the plastics industry, as individual companies and through organizations such as ACC’s Plastics Division, has invested more than $1 billion to support increased recycling and educate communities in the United States. » learn more.
- Plastics Disposal
Despite the continuing growth of recycling, improvements in source reduction and increases in energy recovery, some waste will always require disposal. Learn about plastics in landfills and their important role in protecting our environment and our groundwater from potential hazards posed by landfills. » learn more.
