Global Plastics Industry News Highlights

1. Global War on Plastic Gathers Momentum

Marking the 55th World Earth Day, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) announced that the fourth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee meeting (INC4) on plastic pollution will convene at the end of this month. This underscores the urgency to address the growing challenge of plastic pollution worldwide, with governments, NGOs, and businesses pledging enhanced cooperation.

2. China Intensifies Plastic Pollution Control

China's government work report, released yesterday, for the first time included "plastic pollution control" alongside solid waste management, signifying a heightened commitment to the issue. Initiatives such as plastic bans and policy directives have fueled a nationwide reduction movement, particularly in the food delivery and express delivery sectors.

3. International Forum on Plastic Industry's Global Expansion Concludes

The "2024 International Forum on Plastic Industry's Global Expansion and Shenzhen Plastics Association Annual Meeting" hosted by the Shenzhen Plastics Association concluded successfully. Participants discussed opportunities and challenges in expanding plastic industry exports and enhancing international competitiveness.

4. Green Transformation of Express Packaging Accelerates

Eight Chinese ministries issued policies to further green the express packaging sector. Major express companies are reducing single-use plastic packaging and adopting recyclable alternatives, with notable achievements in tape reduction and standardized sealing tape usage.

5. Comprehensive Plan for Takeout Plastic Pollution Management Released

The environmental organization Break Free From Plastic released a comprehensive plan to tackle takeout plastic pollution in China. The plan highlights the enormity of the problem and outlines measures for source reduction, reuse, and carbon emission reductions.

6. Bamboo Products Gain Popularity as Plastic Alternatives

At the opening ceremony of the 25th Anniversary of the International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR), China and INBAR jointly advocated for "bamboo as a substitute for plastic." Bamboo's biodegradability and eco-friendliness make it a preferred choice, and China has launched action plans to promote its use across various sectors.

7. Upcoming Conference on Plastic Recycling and Reuse

The China Recycling Resources Association will host a conference on plastic recycling and reuse. The event will focus on building a circular economy for waste plastics and driving the industry towards green and low-carbon development.

8. Chemical Giants Increase Investments and Collaborations

Global chemical giants like SABIC are expanding investments in the plastics sector. SABIC signed an investment deal with Fujian Provincial Government to build a thermoplastic engineering plastics alloy factory in China. Collaborations are also deepening in plastic recycling and bio-based materials.