The Changed Proposed By Big Brands On Plastic Packaging Are Too Small | Valdamark

As we see more brands make big changes that relate to the causes their customers care about, will we begin to see significant stands made on plastic?

It can seem like every day there is a new buzz story surrounding big brands, the bad effects of plastic packaging or a new scheme being introduced to reduce this.

Don’t worry it’s not just you. Conversations surrounding plastics have increased to over 300% on Social Media in the year 2017/18.

In fact the Collin Dictionary has crowned ‘single use’ their word of 2018. Documentaries like Blue Planet have made the word a household name due to the awareness they have raised around these issues. Thank you David Attenborough.

Other charities like Greenpeace have played a part as have the countless number of celebrities using their platform to ‘weigh in’ and express their concerns on the issue.

It’s a growing movement for sure but the public and activists in general are not waiting for celebrities or World Earth Day to make their opinions known.

During 2018 plastic packaging conversation peaked when Starbucks and McDonald’s made pledges to rid plastic straws from their stores.

Bold claims that have been scrutinised to show a limited impact on overall plastic waste at best. Its goods but plastic straws in the oceans are not the biggest concern. They only make up (0.3%) of plastic waste in the worlds oceans. Consumables like packaging bags and cartons make up far bigger ratios.

What is needed is more drastic action. How can brands do this though without challenging their customers too much? How can they challenge the packaging companies they work with to meet all the requirements to make alternatives feasible in the long term.

Social listening has become a ‘go to’ method for determining where customers environmental concerns lie. Brands can then prioritise them appropriately. Using measures like tonality and language to determine importance and relevance.

Whatever the future it is going to be the one of the major awareness issues of our time.

Plastic Packaging Tax Changes: What You Need to Know

The United Kingdom Government's recent announcement on March 15, 2023, regarding the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) has sent ripples through the manufacturing and import sectors. Starting from April 1, 2023, the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) costs are set to rise, marking a significant shift in the landscape of plastic packaging changes within the country.

As of April 2022, the government introduced a tax on plastic packaging containing less than 30% recycled content. This tax was applicable to plastic packaging manufactured in the UK or imported into the country. However, the latest changes will see the rate per tonne increase from £200.00 to £210.82. These changes in the Plastic Tax rate have left many wondering about their implications and who will be affected.

Who Will Be Affected by the Plastic Tax Rate Change?

The Plastic Tax rate changes are set to impact several key stakeholders within the UK. Primarily, this includes UK manufacturers and importers of plastic packaging. These businesses will now face an increased financial burden as they adapt to the new tax rate. Business customers of manufacturers and importers of plastic packaging will also feel the ripple effect, potentially leading to higher prices for plastic products. Finally, even consumers purchasing plastic packaging within the UK will likely see the cost passed down to them.

However, it's important to note that there is an exemption for manufacturers and importers of plastic packaging whose annual production falls below 10 tonnes. These small-scale operations can continue their activities without the added burden of the Plastic Tax.

The Aim of Increasing the Plastic Tax Rate

The government's decision to raise the Plastic Tax rate is not arbitrary. It serves a specific purpose - to provide a strong economic incentive for using recycled plastic in the production of plastic packaging. This tax aims to stimulate demand for recycled materials, thereby promoting higher levels of recycling and plastic waste collection.

By doing so, the government aims to divert plastic away from landfills and incineration, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste and its environmental impact. As per Gov.UK, the increase in the rate of the Plastic Packaging Tax is intended to "maintain the real term value of the price incentive to use recycled plastic and support the government's environmental goals."

This rate adjustment is outlined in Section 45 of the Finance Act 2021, shifting from the previous rate of £200 per tonne to £210.82 per tonne, effective April 1, 2023. This adjustment aligns with the government's long-term objective of eliminating avoidable plastic waste by 2042.

In conclusion, the Plastic Packaging Tax changes reflect the UK Government's commitment to environmental sustainability and tackling the issue of plastic waste. While these rate increases may pose challenges for businesses and consumers in the short term, the long-term benefits of reducing plastic waste and encouraging recycling are paramount. These changes emphasise the importance of adopting sustainable practices and making conscious choices when it comes to plastic packaging.