Plastics & The Environment

Plastic features often in the media for its negative role in our environment. Although this may be true to some degree, the benefits of plastic far outweigh the negatives, and many items that we use every day are manufactured from this versatile product.

By definition, plastic is a man made material that can be moulded when heated, but retains its shape once it is cooled.

Since its inception in the late 1800’s, plastic has evolved to become available in a large variety of types, all with different properties and purposes. This has resulted in a lightweight, yet strong and flexible product, with many different uses.

Although plastic does pose some disposal problems, Australia is becoming a nation of recyclers, with approximately 46% of our waste being recycled every year.

This is heading in the right direction to reduce the amount of plastic in landfill and lower the threat to marine life. More and more types of plastic are now available to be recycled, which will continue to help the disposal problem we currently face.