APLA ’18: Mexico takes steps to improve sustainability in plastics industry

CANCUN, Mexico (ICIS)–Mexico’s National Association of Chemical Industry (ANIQ) is committed to “the sustainability of the plastics industry without jeopardising future generations environmentally, socially or economically,” ANIQ’s General Director Miguel Benedetto said on Tuesday at the annual meeting of the Latin American Petrochemical Association (APLA).

Regarding the sustainability plan started by the association about five years ago, statistics are revealing positive results. Hazardous residues have declined 68%, carbon dioxide emissions have dropped by 56% and residual water by 84%.

The challenge posed by the different types of residues generated by the plastics industry is being tackled from three main areas: education, communication and legislation, Benedetto said.

On the education front, the association has been implementing several plans to educate children regarding the use of plastics for certain items that are necessary in daily life and other items in which the negative impact of plastics can be reduced or eliminated.

Regarding communication, the association has established plans with the National University of Mexico to educate students and now offers diplomas certifying the knowledge acquired on the industry and possible ways to increase recycling levels and minimise waste.

On legislation, the country is proposing several initiatives such as banning plastic straws, free plastic bags and disposable plastic cups. Biodegradable products should replace those banned items. By the year 2030, the country is aiming at producing packaging materials that are 100% recyclable.

ANIQ is committed to monitoring recycling levels and report them to make consumers aware of the progress.

The APLA annual meeting runs through Tuesday.