Plastics and Environmental Issues 

Background  /  Solutions / References  

The plastics manufacturing and processing industry is situated in a very dynamic and heterogeneous market environment. In addition, issues like climate change, CO²- emissions, energy efficiency and sustainable consumer protection as well as raw material costs and international competition are causing constantly changes in the product usage and applications. 

Therefore, the plastics manufacturing and processing industry require thorough information and market knowledge about end-customers and product applications.  On account of the heterogeneity of the applications, e.g. for the packaging industry, for building & construction products, E+E, automotive, etc., the companies are facing great  challenges and hence need detailed information  

• The necessity of information on current and future product applications
• The necessity of information on potential substitution processes in various applications,  e.g. PP vs. PVC in automotive usage, or PET vs. glass used for bottles
• The necessity of information on general demand changes, e.g. trend towards usage of environmental-friendly additives  

Across the customer base of the plastics manufacturing industry, several issues have arisen over the last years:

• Changes in the communication, information and buying behaviour of customers: Should the plastic industry react with a different communication and distribution strategy (e.g. via the Internet)?
• Divergent opinions of customers regarding the additional value of services: Which customers are willing to pay a premium, and for which services? 

Another essential objective – specifically with plastic products for packaging, construction, electrical and electronic engineering, automotive and agricultural applications - is the adequate recycling or disposal of these products at the end of their life cycles.  

In this context, there is a potential to produce either premium secondary raw materials as recyclates or to use these materials as combustibles.Accordingly, in the chemical and plastics industries, there is a need for efficient and ecologically acceptable waste management solutions. 

Also for these questions, Consultic can provide based on it’s long track record comprehensive insight.