What Is Upcycled Plastic
What is Upcycling?
The Dictionary definition of upcycling is “reuse discarded objects or materials in such a way as to create a product of higher quality or value than the original”
Plastic upcycling is the process of recreating new items and products from waste plastic materials that would usually end up as pollution in the environment. It is an innovative way to reduce waste and convert waste into something more valuable and longer-lived.
Upcycling turns low-value post-consumer plastic products into new items that are of higher value and quality.
What is Recycling?
The Dictionary definition of recycling is “the action or process of converting waste into reusable material”.
Plastics recycling in most cases means chopping it up and forming it into new products – usually of lower quality or value – such as pillow stuffing. Unfortunately, the majority of the plastic you put in the recycling bin usually ends up in a landfill.
The Benefits of Upcycling Plastic
Plastic Upcycling at the local level is an extremely important initiative when it comes to our environment. It provides the following key benefits;
- Persuades us to consider how to reuse plastic materials instead of simply throwing them away (or putting them in the bin and hoping for the best) when we are done with them.
- Less waste going to landfill or being burnt, which is great for the environment,
- Less Ocean Plastic. The majority of ocean plastic comes from plastic that was discarded on land.
- Reduces the amount of “New” plastic being created. More new plastic means more future waste plastic.
- Reduces the transportation and packaging costs associated with new plastic products.
The potential for upcycling waste plastic is huge and an incredibly exciting opportunity.
