Plastic consumption is viewed critically worldwide, and various initiatives aim to reduce consumption and improve the circularity of the plastics used. But which plastics are used in Switzerland? Which products contain plastics? Which plastics are recycled? A scientific study by Klotz and Haupt (2022) investigated all these questions. The products made of 12 plastics were mapped in 54 usage segments - from PET bottles to insulation material and toys, all plastic consumption is included in the study. Furthermore, the entire value chain from production to use to recycling was mapped.
We have now processed this study and are immediately providing an easily understandable summary of the study. The plastic flows are first presented in a structured manner along the value chain. This is followed by more detailed information on the individual product segments.
Largest usage segment and most relevant types of plastic
In 2017, the most plastic was used in the packaging sector with over 350,000 t, followed by buildings and construction with 225,000 t of plastic usage. The most commonly used types of plastic were polyethylene (HDPE and LDPE, 243,375 t) and polypropylene (210,000 t).
Recycling Rate and Recyclate Use
In Switzerland, the recycling rate for plastics is low, at only 9%. Besides technical aspects, this is due to the lack of infrastructure for collection, sorting, and recycling. However, the use of recyclates is important to save resources and CO2 emissions. Improvement requires collaboration along the entire value chain.
Download the overview paper «Plastic Flows in Switzerland»
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