From the European perspective

Dr. Rüdiger Baunemann Director of PlasticsEurope Central Region

The plastics industry in Europe is facing great challenges. The public debate about the use and environmental impacts of plastics is intensifying. Politicians are discussing tighter recycling quotas, taxes on plastics and first bans on individual applications and user industries. In the packaging sector, alternatives to plastics are increasingly being sought, while the media are dominated by negative reporting with photos that stir emotions. In this setting, it is no wonder that the acceptance and image ratings of plastics as materials and the plastics industry are in free fall. All the examples show: Never before has it been as important as today to take countermeasures through efficient and effective association work. Obviously, it is difficult to win with sound arguments against negative and emotional images, but we must not tire in our efforts – no matter whether it is to highlight the benefits of many plastics products or to present the industry’s activities towards plastics as an integral part of the circular economy. For this purpose, it is essential to use the various networks and existing contacts that have been built up so successfully in recent years. Here, PlasticsEurope Polska is an asset for Poland, the Central Region and the pan-European association of PlasticsEurope. It is a strong partner and an important voice for Poland’s interests and far beyond.