The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic is continuing to affect the plastics industry in Germany, with no end in sight. The main problems are not only the decline in sales but also sharply falling prices. But despite this difficult economic situation, sustainability goals remain high on companies’ agenda.
Demand for recycling materials and their associated supply into the circular economy must be driven forward. Success will come only if production in Germany is strengthened through further digitalization as the pandemic has shown the country’s weakness in this regard. In addition, demand for recycled plastics must be increased and incentives created for their use.
Product design and waste separation, as well as investments in - and modernization of - sorting and processing operations, must be considered in their entirety. But the most important aspect is to gain society’s acceptance of products made from recycled materials - a task that will face the industry and politicians over the next few years.
Stephanie Kötter-Gribbe
Best Plastic Management GmbH (DEU), Board Member of the BIR Plastics Committee
Country
Germany