Keywords: Environment, Plastics packaging, Plastic recovery.

The application of a sound environmental policy is a central aspect of modern industry and its implementation should be based on consensus between concerned and committed parties resulting in workable models.

Bulk commodity packaging products represent a growth area within the packaging industry as a whole and increasing attention is being paid to the net effect their production, use and, recovery can exert on the environment. On a general level, a review of the various stages in the packaging cycle - from raw materials’ selection, via conversion processes, through to recovery and ultimate removal from the waste stream - has been undertaken, enabling a number of conclusions to be drawn.

On balance, it is evident that for a high proportion of bulk commodity applications, the use of technologically refined FIBCs, comprising chemically uncomplicated polymers, are the preferred packaging choice in terms of the reduced burden they place on the environment.

T Johnstone, Norsk Hydro AS, Brevik, Norway.

20 pages, 9 figures, 1 ref.