Plastic Sustainability: Can we see the forest for the trees?

Pierre Sarazin, PolyExpert

In a context where sustainability has become significantly ingrained in the public’s set of values, plastic pollution positions itself as being one of the most predominantly concerning threat in the public eye. However, while emotions can sometimes be a useful lever for positive change, decision-making should rely on exhaustive, impartial, and holistic evaluations.  This talk aims at providing information on the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's Global Commitment and the Plastics Pact Network, to clearly understand their statement and mindset as well as the call for a UN treaty to address plastic pollution.  We will describe the overall results reported by signatories for the December 2025 targets.  We will analyze some of the initiatives, such as widespread bans, that flow directly from the commitment targets to assess whether these actions are truly beneficial to the environment and the fight against climate change.  We will also look at some developments that we believe are in the best interest of both the environment and the flexible packaging industry, including the mass balance approach to advanced recycling.