Editorial Livestreams

POLYMER POINTS LIVE with Frank Esposito, Plastics News Senior Reporter

This is a one-of-a-kind virtual report based on the popular column from Plastics News Senior Reporter Frank Esposito. Resin is the single largest component cost of many plastic products. Plastics News is giving their readers a closer look at the topics affecting resin supply, demand and pricing.

To register for the February livestream click here

In this month's Plastics in politics, states are debating extended producer responsibility, and in Colorado, experts are estimating the impact on the cost of plastic products. Also, a study looks at how strict measures globally could slow growth of virgin resin consumption and boost demand for recycled plastics. Finally Steve Toloken also recaps shareholder resolutions related to plastics, and discusses the need for container deposits.

To achieve ambitious sustainability goals, the plastics industry will need both mechanical and chemical recycling, Karen Laird said in the May Sustainable Plastics Live webinar. Laird, the editor of Sustainable Plastics magazine, argued that plastics recycling is not a myth, thanks to improved technology. But improvements to collection infrastructure, and extended producer responsibility, are needed.

Despite high inflation and talk about a slowing economy, Plastics News Economics Editor Bill Wood says he doesn’t “see a flashing red light” warning of trouble in the North American plastics supply chain. He does see a yellow light, warning of slower growth. In the April 2022 Numbers that Matter Live, he says managers should keep an eye on interest rates – if the Fed tries to raise them too much, too quickly – and on the value of the U.S. dollar.