Unwrapping Recycling Challenges In Thermoplastics

Designing low-contaminant plastics for enhanced recyclability and performance

Last November, in a potential landmark plastics pollution case, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a public nuisance lawsuit against a large food and beverage company claiming it is the largest single contributor of plastic waste along the Buffalo River. Specifically, the lawsuit alleges failure to "abate the harm or warn the public that its plastic packaging is a potential source of plastic pollution."

Central to the lawsuit is whether single-use plastic manufactured by the plaintiff poses an environmental threat and whether the plaintiff should be held responsible for educating consumers about possible risks. The case could have significant implications for the information companies are required to communicate about their environmental commitments.