Nine types of polymers and one type of rubber have been detected in plastics transported by the air. Although this discovery has implications for the climate, researchers still do not know the exact consequences.

Microplastics are already widely distributed worldwide, even in places like Antarctica and the deep sea, according to various studies. Now, a team of scientists has confirmed their presence in clouds, which could have an impact on the climate.

In a study published in Environmental Chemistry Letters, scientists conducted an expedition to Mount Fuji and Mount Oyama to collect mistwater from their peaks. Through the analysis of these samples, nine types of polymers and one type of rubber were identified in airborne microplastics.

The European Commission will implement a ban on the sale of products deliberately containing microplastics, such as detergents, cosmetics, toys, and other items. Products used in industrial settings or those that do not release microplastics during use are exempt from the sales ban, but their manufacturers will have to provide instructions on how to use and dispose of the product to prevent microplastic emissions.

The first measures, such as the ban on non-adhesive glitter and microbeads, will begin to be enforced when the restriction comes into effect this October.

Optimizing research is essential for gaining a deeper understanding of climate change. According to Okochi, "Microplastics present in the troposphere contribute to global pollution. If the issue of plastic air pollution is not proactively addressed, climate change and ecological risks could become a reality, causing severe and irreversible environmental and health damage in the future."

La entrada Presencia de microplásticos en las nubes se publicó primero en Indalica Europea de comercio.

Most plastic products are designed for single use, with only a small fraction, less than 10%, being recycled. This has been a significant and long-standing issue, but society is becoming increasingly aware of the problem.

According to Luis Morales:

¨We need to promote a market for recycled plastic in Spain to mitigate the environmental impacts.¨

This is why more and more companies are dedicated to addressing the issues caused by plastic waste, both now and in the future. It's time to embrace the concept of a circular economy!

To achieve the European Union's goal of having 50% of packaging recycled by 2025, several factors must come into play. First, households need to generate enough plastic waste that can be effectively recycled. Second, there must be a commitment to environmental sustainability, not only from households but also from plastic recycling companies. If domestic plastic waste increases and is subsequently recycled in an innovative and viable manner, the recycling market would generate new jobs and promote a circular economy, adding value to new products.

La entrada ¿Qué hacemos con tantos residuos plásticos? se publicó primero en Indalica Europea de comercio.

It is crucial for recycling to become a fundamental pillar in the processes and business plans of large companies, as it plays a positive role in sustainable development.

Unfortunately, many companies are still unaware of the multiple benefits associated with the collection, transportation, and management of industrial plastics, not only for the environment but also for the economy as a whole.

In summary, recycling always presents itself as a smart investment. In this article, we will explain in detail the economic advantages of embracing the recycling of industrial plastics.

Why is it crucial to recycle plastic?

One of the most environmentally harmful materials is plastic because its decomposition process is extremely slow, taking between 100 and 1000 years to fully break down.

Plastic is a petroleum-derived polymer, a non-renewable resource. For this reason, it is essential to promote its recycling, both to preserve the environment and to reduce the costs associated with its production.

It is important to understand that industrial plastic is used in the manufacturing of consumer product packaging, credit and debit cards, identification cards for businesses, universities, or schools, as well as in food and beverage preservation, toy production, and clothing manufacturing.

Currently, there are more than 10,000 different types of plastics worldwide, demonstrating their versatility when combined with other materials, further expanding their applications.

Another noteworthy fact is that up to 10% of the total waste stream consists of petroleum-derived products. This means that the more petroleum is used in plastic production, the higher the greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.

Imagine the magnitude of the problem, especially when only 5% of all available plastic is recycled.

Reasons for Companies to Recycle More Industrial Plastics

Recycling industrial plastics offers numerous benefits to industries: 

1. Reduction in raw material costs by reusing discarded products.
2. Lower production costs by avoiding starting from scratch.
3. Reduction of environmental pollution.
4. Minimization of CO₂ emissions throughout the manufacturing process.
5. Enhancement of corporate image, both in the eyes of customers and as part of their social and corporate responsibility.

Recycling plastics also provides benefits to the planet:

1. Using recycled products reduces energy consumption, resulting in decreased CO₂ emissions into the atmosphere. For every kilogram of recycled plastic, approximately 1.5 kilograms of CO₂ emissions are avoided.
2. Furthermore, recycling prevents the exploitation of natural resources by giving a second purpose to products that have already been processed.

Lastly, this practice offers benefits to humanity:

1. It serves as an education for future generations.
2. It reduces expenses on product acquisition, as they are obtained through recycling.
3. It offers prospects for the circular economy.

Reasons for Companies to Increase Their Recycling Efforts 

1. It can help reduce production costs since recycled plastic is often more cost-effective than virgin plastic. 
2. Additional revenue: Income is generated by selling recycled plastic to other companies that use it as raw material. 
3. Compliance with regulations: Companies may receive tax incentives or regulatory advantages for recycling their industrial waste.

Therefore, the management of a discarded plastic bottle at home raises concern for many people. However, in this same context, it is essential to reflect on the fate of the thousands of tons of plastic produced by industries. The circular economy starts with you!

Join the change!

La entrada Ventajas económicas a través del reciclaje de plástico se publicó primero en Indalica Europea de comercio.