As of July 2024, the latest developments in the international plastics industry mainly focus on the following aspects:
1. Sustainable development and environmental protection policies : Many countries around the world continue to strengthen plastic pollution control, the European Union, the United States, Canada and other regions have introduced more stringent plastic restriction policies to limit the use of disposable plastic products, and promote the research and development and application of degradable plastics. For example, the EU's "plastic limit order" has further expanded its scope, and many states in the United States have also passed legislation to limit plastic packaging.
2. Plastic recycling technology innovation : chemical recycling technology has become a hot spot, and many companies have invested in the development of new recycling processes aimed at converting plastic waste into recycled raw materials or fuels. For example, some companies are advancing pyrolysis technology, which converts mixed plastics into oils or monomers that can be used to make new plastics.
3. Bio-based plastics development : The bio-based plastics market is growing rapidly, and many companies have launched plant-based degradable plastic products to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. For example, some companies are developing bioplastics based on raw materials such as corn and sugar cane for use in packaging and consumer products.
4. Plastics industry supply chain adjustment : Affected by global supply chain fluctuations, plastic raw material prices are volatile, and companies are adjusting supply chain strategies to cope with rising energy costs and logistics challenges. For example, some companies are turning to localised production to reduce their dependence on imported raw materials.
5. Marine Plastic Pollution Control : International organizations and ngos continue to promote Marine plastic cleanup projects while advocating for reducing plastic waste entering the ocean. For example, some countries are implementing "blue economy" programs to promote the recycling and reuse of Marine plastics.