Plastic Soup

Money, Money, Money

In discussions about war and disputes, the publisher always says: “When you want to know what’s really going on—look for who has something to gain.”

Profit. That appeared to be the operative word in discussions with Jacques Joosten, managing director of DPI (which is according to their own website, “… the leading organization in Europe for pre-competitive polymer R&D”)

We discussed research into alternative raw materials for plastic. DPI spends much of its attention on this research, like many other global organizations, but “there aren’t any winners yet.”

He can understand the plastics industry’s resistance to a ban or deposit on plastic bags: “They will not let business be taken away from them.”

On the issue of toxic substances being used in plastic (and which ultimately damage health), he says: “Very often there are alternatives, but they are more expensive.” Furthermore: “Our economy works that way: he who has the lowest price wins. The consumer makes that decision.”

He also had his doubts as to whether the government should play a role in the areas of recycling, restriction of disposable plastic, or the regulation of toxic substances used in plastic. “You have to be very careful about the effects this will have internationally,” and “… how you will burden the plastics industry.”

In my words: “Why should we produce responsible products? Why should we be concerned about the health of our fellow man and a cleaner environment? We produce our products in the least expensive way; to make the largest profit possible. Apparently it makes no difference to the public, otherwise they would not buy our products.”

My favorite Loesje poster reads: “It was so dark that I saw bright spots everywhere.”

This rings true every time, even now.

Because while the petrochemical and plastics industry is affected by the crisis—so that thousands lose their jobs—great opportunities come to the fore. Bring these folks together with their unique knowledge and allow them to think of a solution—safe plastic, a good recycling system, alternatives to disposable plastic.

Later, when we are out of the dark, the world will be a lot greener.

Lees deze tekst in het Nederlands.