In response to the launch of the new Plastics Scorecard,
by Clean Production Action (CPA) and Pure Strategies, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) has released the following statement:

“The plastics industries of the American Chemistry Council support rigorous and thorough life-cycle assessment as the foundation for evaluating the sustainability of our products, and we encourage creative programs and public education to help ensure appropriate end-of-life solutions for all plastics.

“In contrast to the narrow approach espoused by Clean Production Action, a complete life-cycle assessment provides environmental impact data not only on materials but also on product manufacturing, transportation, service life (or use), and end-of-life options (recycling, disposal, energy recovery) as well as a thorough evaluation of the benefits of a product and comparisons with alternatives. When such critical factors are included in an examination, plastic products generally rate very favorably compared to alternatives. In fact, a recent study from Europe shows that, across various market sectors, using plastics instead of alternative materials helps to reduce energy use by 26 percent and curbs greenhouse gas emissions by 56 percent.

“Approaches which selectively omit critical aspects of a life-cycle approach will inevitably lead to skewed results and poor decision making. Full life-cycle comparisons allow brand owners and consumers to make informed decisions about the products and packages they prefer and avoid the unintended consequences of increasing environmental burdens.

“America’s plastics makers have a history of bringing to life innovations that help to reduce the use of raw materials and energy, lessen greenhouse gas emissions and waste, and increase product recycling."