It is common knowledge by now that we at PURELL® are on our very own journey to become more sustainable (if that’s news to you, you can catch up here!). One aspect of our "Journey To Green" has been mentioned again and again, but has never been examined in detail: the use of recycled plastic. Plastic, once a miracle material, has long since turned into a growing ecological disaster. Believe it or not, every 10 minutes more than 5.2 million kilograms of plastic waste are generated!
We believe that it is the responsibility of every company and individual to work towards a better, more sustainable future where such waste is unthinkable. This means taking care of our planet, its ecosystems and people, and reducing environmental impact, emissions, but also plastic waste. How exactly can we do this? For example, by using recycled plastic (PCR-PET for short). This is exactly what we use for our refill packs.
The circular economy of plastics and the importance of recycled raw materials (such as PCR-PET)
It is hard to imagine modern life without plastic. It can be found everywhere, from disposable packaging to electronic housings. But it is precisely this excessive use of plastic that has serious ecological consequences. One solution to the problem is the introduction of a circular economy in which recycling and the use of so-called recyclates, such as PCR-PET (post-consumer recycled polyethylene terephthalate), play a central role.
What is PCR-PET and how is it produced?
PCR-PET is a type of recyclate obtained from used plastic bottles and other PET packaging. The process begins with the collection and sorting of used plastic. The plastic is then cleaned, crushed and melted into small pellets. These pellets can then be reused in the production of new PET packaging. The production of PCR-PET has several advantages. Firstly, it reduces the need for new plastic production, which means less raw materials and energy are used. Secondly, it reduces the volume of plastic waste and thus contributes to reducing the environmental impact.
Helping to shape the future from home
Of course, recycling plastic is only possible if waste plastic is collected. This is not only down to large companies and in industry, but also each and every one of us. The cycle to PCR-PET begins, among other places, at the domestic waste bin, where a foundation stone for a more sustainable future can be laid with the right waste separation.
It may sound strange at first, but the fact that waste separation behaviour in private households is vital for the future development of recyclates such as PCR-PET.
Waste separation, done right
Waste separation may seem like a chore at first glance, but it is of great importance for our environment and the future of our planet as part of the plastic cycle. Proper recycling can help reduce waste and conserve valuable resources. Separating waste is part of the daily routine in Germany, like coffee in the morning or the newspapers on Sunday. But when it comes to things that are done as a matter of habit, careless mistakes tend to creep in. So here are a few quick tips and reminders about waste separation:
1. Being properly informed is half the battle
Before you start separating waste, you should find out about local regulations and recycling guidelines. For example, many counties have special collection points or bins for different types of waste.
2. Keep an eye on symbols
Many products are marked with recycling symbols that indicate which materials can be recycled at all. Sometimes only parts of the product can be recycled, so it ia always best to check before disposal!
3 Clean and empty
Packaging that is dirty or filled with leftovers can disrupt recycling processes.
Therefore, make sure that packaging is empty and clean before putting it in recycling bins.
4. Glass, paper, plastic and more
Waste separation is more than just separating paper from plastic. Waste should be sorted into different categories, including glass, paper, plastic, metal and organic waste.
5. Keep electronics out.
Electronic equipment should not end up in normal household waste. A quick search online will tell you where to find collection points or electronics recycling programmes to dispose of old equipment in an environmentally friendly way.
6 Reduce, reuse, recycle
The motto "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" should be the guiding principle for all of us. Just try to avoid waste more often wherever possible, or remember that reusing items is often a more sustainable option than disposing of them or recycling them. Sounds simple, doesn't it?
By doing lots of little things, like separating waste properly, we can all help to conserve our resources and reduce pollution. Maybe we just start today?
