Packaging industry roots for no plastic granules in our seas
June 19, 2019On the occasion of the Oceans Day on 8 June, the IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen (Plastics Packaging) Group repeatedly campaigns for the Zero Granule Loss Initiative. This aims to prevent the loss of plastic granules to the environment. More than 70 companies in the plastic packaging industry are already participating, and the trend is rising – especially as entire sections of the IK are now closed.
The plastic packaging industry is actively involved in the Zero Granule Loss Initiative for water conservation, says Torben Knöß, IK Technical Officer, responsible for the initiative on the steadily growing number of participants. The proverbial sweeping on your own doorstep is part of a sustainable production and of course for most companies – even if they are not yet an official member. Nevertheless, we actively promote participation in order to make a visible sign of our commitment.
Plastic packaging that is carelessly disposed of into the environment is currently shaping the perception of plastic packaging. However, manufacturers have limited opportunities to directly influence the protection of waters, but want to use them all the more. Only a small proportion of plastic waste in the oceans consists of granules, explains IK Managing Director Dr. Ing. Isabell Schmidt. But they too are found in rivers, on beaches and in the sea. A condition that the plastics-producing and processing industry actively mitigates together with its logistics service providers.
Measures for the protection of waters have an effect
The practical exchange of the plastic packaging manufacturers with each other has proved particularly expedient. Here, for example, the processors report successful training measures, necessary structural changes or special cleaning equipment. The logistics partners also play an important role – the granules are often lost when changing the load carriers or when opening and closing conveyor systems. As countermeasures gullies are even stronger u. a. secured by screens, unloading stations are enclosed and paved traffic areas for easier cleaning. If necessary, the delivery lines will also be equipped with new coupling systems.
The Zero Granule Loss Initiative is part of the global commitment of the plastics industry to Zero Pellet Loss and Operation Clean Sweep.
