Virgin Plastic VS Recycled Plastic: What’s the Difference?
Why Switching to Recycled Plastic is a Smart and Sustainable Choice for Businesses.
In today’s environmentally conscious world, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a critical focus for businesses looking to align with customer values and contribute positively to the planet.
One of the most impactful ways to reduce your environmental footprint is by transitioning from virgin PET to rPET (recycled PET).
In this post, we’ll explore the difference…
Firstly, what even is PET?
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) also known as Virgin PET is a widely used plastic, best known for manufacturing plastic bottles.
The Environmental Impact of Virgin PET
1. Fossil Fuel Dependence: The production of virgin PET relies heavily on fossil fuels. Plastic production accounts for around 6% of global oil consumption, contributing to climate change and global energy demand (British Plastics Federation).
2. High Carbon Footprint: A 2022 report from the (UNFCCC) found plastic production accounts for 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it a major contributor to global warming. Projections suggest this could increase to 19% by 2040 if current trends continue.
Additionally, according to the (WWF), plastic production and disposal in Australia alone emit 16 million tonnes of CO₂e per year, equivalent to the emissions from 5.7 million cars on the road every year.
3. Environmental Pollution: The environmental toll doesn’t stop at production. PET plastic is a significant source of ocean and landfill pollution. An estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year, and PET is a major contributor to that waste.
The Case for rPET: A Sustainable Alternative
Switching to rPET offers a far more sustainable option, with the added benefit of reducing the environmental impact of plastic production and consumption. rPET is made by recycling post-consumer PET plastic—such as used Virgin PET bottles.
Here’s why rPET stands out:
1. Significant Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The production of rPET results in 79% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to virgin PET. This is a crucial reduction, especially for businesses committed to meeting sustainability targets and reducing their carbon footprints.
2. Energy Efficiency: rPET production requires 75% less energy than producing new PET plastic. This not only helps reduce operational costs for manufacturers but also decreases the overall energy demand associated with plastic production.
3. Conservation of Water: Using rPET also significantly conserves water. rPET production uses 84% less water compared to virgin PET, addressing the growing concern over water scarcity and making it a more resource-efficient option.
4. Reduction in Landfill Waste: According to a (National Australian Study), only 12.6% of plastic waste in Australia was recycled in 2020-21. With such a low recycling rate, choosing rPET helps ensure less plastic ends up in landfills, as much of it is unlikely to be recycled.
5. Marine Protection: One of the most compelling reasons to switch to rPET is its role in reducing ocean plastic. According to the Ocean Conservancy, 80% of global marine litter is made of plastics, with food and beverage items like plastic bottles, bottle caps, and lids being among the top 10 items most commonly collected at their International Coastal Cleanup.
Why Businesses Should Make the Switch to rPET
Switching to rPET isn’t just an environmental responsibility—it’s a strategic choice with long-term benefits.
By choosing rPET, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. Compared to virgin PET, rPET production generates 79% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, uses 75% less energy, and consumes 84% less water—helping companies meet sustainability goals while advancing a circular economy.
With consumer demand for eco-friendly products on the rise, brands that adopt rPET can strengthen customer trust and loyalty while demonstrating a clear commitment to sustainability. This shift not only enhances a company’s reputation but also aligns with global environmental efforts.
rPET gives plastic a second life, reducing reliance on virgin plastic and minimizing waste. By incorporating rPET into production, businesses actively contribute to a circular system where materials are reused, and sustainability becomes the standard.
