The amount of plastic being used (and wasted) is continuing to rise. When combined with prevailing low recycling rates, this raises questions as to how and whether we should be using plastics in the future. To respond to these questions, we need to come up cross-cutting initiatives and involve the widest possible range of interest groups. As a research institute specialising in the treatment and processing of plastics, this is one area where the IKT can help. By networking with various interest groups and contributing specific information we can achieve constant, steady improvement.
For the IKT, the circular economy means focusing on ensuring plastics are used sensibly and setting new standards, both for the material itself and the way it is processed. These new standards will bring with them the potential for new material flows and an opportunity to establish alternative, independent sources of raw materials. Changing how people see plastic can help to them to recognise its potential and become more aware of its value, allowing us to move away from its current image.