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March 24, 2022 01:10 PM

Studies say plastics are a green choice

Keith Rodden
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    One only needs to read the news or watch television to confirm that the public is biased against plastics. The constant efforts to ban and/or regulate plastics are the result of this bias. This is despite numerous independent studies that show plastics to be the greenest choice in many applications.

    Multiple studies in the U.S., Europe and Asia have all concluded that plastic bags are greener than paper. A few quotes from these studies:

    "Paper bags, even with 100 percent recycled content, have significantly higher average impacts on the environment than either reusable bags or single use plastic bags." (Clemson University)

    "The study results support the conclusion that any decision to ban traditional polyethylene plastic grocery bags in favor of bags made from alternative materials (compostable plastic or recycled paper) will be counterproductive and result in a significant increase in environmental impact." (Franklin Associates)

    This information is from The Plastics Paradox, a book from Chris DeArmitt, an expert on the use of plastics and their impact on the environment.

    Since the facts show plastics to be the best choice in these applications, I cannot imagine why the industry groups that collect tens of millions of dollars from the plastics industry each year should not play a major role in educating the public instead of standing idly by on the sidelines. Furthermore, there should be an industry website where the public can see the truth about plastics and the environment.

    Keith Rodden
    President
    Compound Solutions LLC

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