Using recycled plastics can contribute to more efficient plastics manufacturing while reducing the demand for natural resources. But how can consumers identify companies who are committed to more sustainable practices?
INTI (National Institute of Industrial Technology) and Ecoplas (a civil non-profit association that promotes the sustainable development of plastics for a circular economy) joined forces to develop a recycled plastic content certification for manufacturers that consumers can recognize and trust.
“There is a visible change in the industry and consumers about the impact of responsible production and consumption of plastics. Certification comes to enhance this trend and the circular economy.”
Verónica Ramos Executive Director of Ecoplas
Building trust in recycled plastics
In Argentina, the recycling rate, the supply of recycled plastic products and the interest of companies and consumers in incorporating them is on the rise. That’s why a third-party eco-label was developed – to generate trust in the supply chain from the producer to the consumer.
Following the joint project with INTI and Ecoplas, the certification with its protocol and eco-label was presented in 2022 and is the first of its kind in Argentina. The eco-label certifies that recycled plastic content is at least 15% and up to 100%. Companies wishing to earn the certification must be located in Argentina; however, the option to extend the accreditation further is under evaluation.
Using recycled plastic in manufacturing different products decreases the use of virgin plastics and the consumption of natural resources in their production while lowering greenhouse gas emissions. By collecting, sorting and recycling plastic materials into new raw materials, less waste is generated, which helps to reduce pollution.
A more sustainable plastic supply chain
To date, five companies have certified the content of recycled plastic in their products, while several other companies are going through the process. The certification process recognizes companies that contribute to the circular economy while providing information to the supply chain, enabling the different organizations to make better decisions in the search for sustainable production and consumption.
The use of recycled plastic is part of a new circular economy, where plastic waste is reused, generating less waste, fewer emissions and more employment.
Adopting the certification is an opportunity to demonstrate the environmental commitment of the companies that use recycled plastic and for the consumers to identify the companies they choose to buy from.
“We aim to shift the paradigm towards a circular economy model, thus reducing the environmental impact and promoting valorization of waste.”
Mariana Mollo, Director of Plastic Division at INTI
