Politico | US green groups blast plastic makers’ recycling push: ‘It’s a pipe dream’
- The groups argue that the Break Free from Plastics Pollution Act would undermine their recycling efforts and disrupt critical supply chains
- Critics accuse the plastics industry of selling consumers a false promise that recycling alone can fix the waste problem
This story is published in a content partnership with POLITICO. It was originally reported by Catherine Boudreau on politico.com on March 25, 2021.
Legislation aimed at tackling America’s plastic waste has ignited a messaging war between makers of single-use products and environmental advocates.
The American Chemistry Council on Tuesday lined up industry heavyweights Dow Chemicals Co., Bubble Wrap maker Sealed Air Corp., and others to argue that the Break Free from Plastics Pollution Act – which Senator Jeff Merkley and congressman Alan Lowenthal plan to reintroduce today – would undermine their recycling efforts and disrupt critical supply chains.
On Wednesday, the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators, Beyond Plastics and other groups delivered a counterpunch, promoting the bill as a comprehensive solution to plastic pollution.
The legislation would cut production at the source by banning bags, straws, takeaway containers and other items.
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Consumer brands would be on the hook for funding waste and recycling programmes and no more plastic plants could be constructed until the federal government evaluates the cumulative health impacts of pollution on low-income Americans and communities of colour.