Addressing plastic waste pollution is a worldwide problem, and ExxonMobil is a significant participant in discussions about it. Currently, global negotiations for a plastics treaty are happening in Ottawa, Canada. While everyone agrees that plastic waste is a serious problem, ExxonMobil has a distinct perspective: recognizing the problem while emphasizing the value of plastics when used responsibly.
Going Beyond Prohibitions: Offering Solutions Instead of Restrictions
ExxonMobil backs a global treaty but stresses a crucial point: the primary focus should be on eliminating plastic pollution from oceans and waterways. They believe that a clear and focused objective will lead to more effective solutions, more quickly. While banning all plastics might seem like a simple solution, it overlooks the many benefits that plastics bring to our lives.
Plastics: More than Just Convenience
ExxonMobil readily acknowledges that plastic waste is a major concern. However, they also highlight the numerous advantages that plastics offer. From significantly reducing food waste (a significant source of methane emissions in landfills) to enabling the safe transportation of clean water and medical supplies, plastics play a crucial role in modern society. They are also essential in achieving many UN Sustainable Development Goals, such as ensuring access to clean water and sanitation, and reaching net-zero emission targets. ExxonMobil argues that when used responsibly, plastics often have a lower environmental impact throughout their life cycle compared to alternatives like glass, paper, and aluminum in many applications.
Giving Plastic Waste a Second Chance at Use
ExxonMobil presents their advanced recycling facility in Baytown, Texas, as a shining example of their commitment to addressing plastic waste. This state-of-the-art plant transforms millions of pounds of discarded plastic into raw materials for new products on a molecular level. Their “certified circular plastic” approach is independently verified, providing customers with confidence that their purchases contribute to keeping plastic out of landfills and incinerators. ExxonMobil believes this innovative approach can handle a significant portion of plastic waste, and they expect the market for recycled plastics to continue growing with improved infrastructure for collecting and sorting used plastics.
Innovation for an Environmentally Friendly Future
ExxonMobil is actively engaged in developing new and improved plastics with enhanced recyclability. Their focus is on creating lighter, stronger, and more durable polymers that require less material overall. This not only reduces the environmental impact of plastic production but also makes it easier to recycle plastic products at the end of their life. They stress the importance of collaboration with policymakers, customers, and scientists to find multiple solutions to the complex problem of plastic waste.
ExxonMobil’s message is clear: a multi-faceted approach is needed to resolve plastic waste pollution. They advocate for a solution-focused global treaty while highlighting their ongoing efforts in advanced recycling and material innovation. Through collaboration, continued investment in new technologies, and a focus on responsible plastic use, we can achieve a future where plastic remains a valuable resource without contributing to environmental pollution.
