RPC Press Release: New YouTube Video Promotes Plastics Recycling

Plastic packaging manufacturer RPC Containers and leading plastics recycler Regain Polymers Ltd have produced a YouTube video with the clear message that plastics are not only recyclable but are needed for valuable new packaging applications.

The objective of the video is to depict in a fun and accessible way the fact that plastics in general and polypropylene in particular – which is used extensively in the manufacture of pots, tubs and trays (PTTs) for a wide variety of packs – are fully recyclable and used to manufacture new packaging, the example shown in the video being plastic paint containers.

“We think that many consumers are aware that polyethylene milk bottles and PET drinks bottles can be recycled, but there is less understanding about the recyclability of PTTs,” explains Katherine Fleet, RPC Group’s Sustainability Manager.

“Consumers like these types of packs for their convenience and ease of use, so we need to demonstrate that there is no stigma attached to using them, and that when they are finished with, they still have a valuable role and are not merely destined for landfill.”

The video shows how instead of being thrown away, a margarine tub is placed into a recycling bin.  The viewer is then taken through the stages of the recycling process that convert the tub back into pellets which are used to manufacture the paint container.  The video ends with the new paint can being purchased and taken to the home where the margarine tub came from.

“We hope that the video will not only help consumers appreciate that all plastics can be recycled, but also encourage them to lobby for recycling facilities for these types of containers where they do not currently exist,” says Katherine Fleet.

“Part of the problem is that there is no co-ordinated approach among local authorities when it comes to the collection of PTTs.  Currently in some areas, people are asked to recycle PTTs along with bottles, in others PTTs have to be separated from bottles, while some regions do not collect them at all.  We need to see a much greater focus on the collection of this material going forward.”

Without this manufacturers and retailers will have little chance of meeting the Government’s challenging new recycling targets for 2017.  Equally important, there is strong demand for the material.

“The RPC paint containers shown in the video currently incorporate 25% recycled material and we are already working on increasing this content – but ultimately the success of this development work will be dependent on a regular supply of quality used plastics, so it is vital we take every opportunity to spread the plastics recycling message as loudly and widely as possible,” concludes Katherine Fleet.

Mark Roberts Sales Director at Castleford-based Regain Polymers commented: “Not many consumers are party to the recycling process or would even think beyond trashing the plastic container.  This video takes the viewer into the world of recycling and how our process brings life back to waste.”

You can view the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9_W_mVSx6E

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