April 21, 2009 – ACC’s Progressive Bag Affiliates group announced a landmark commitment that will dramatically increase the recycling of plastic bags. This initiative sets an aggressive goal of 40 percent recycled content (25 percent postconsumer material) in all plastic bags by 2015. In addition, the effort will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 463 million pounds, conserve enough energy (mainly natural gas) to heat 200,000 homes, and reduce waste by 300 million pounds every year. Over the last several months, we’ve listened to consumers and policy makers and determined that innovation is the solution. Plastic bags require 70 percent less energy to manufacture, generate 50 percent less greenhouse gas emissions, produce 80 percent less waste than paper bags – and they’re fully recyclable. This is a significant and unprecedented commitment, and it’s just one of the many ways we’re demonstrating that plastics are too valuable to waste; they can be – and should be – recycled. To learn more, read our FAQs, view a diagram illustrating the plastic bag recycling process, get tips on how to recycle more plastic bags and wraps, or visit our "Too Valuable to Waste" recycling blog.
essential2energy
May 6, 2009
Energy Savings Through American Chemistry
The U.S. business of chemistry is unique. We use energy to save energy. We are the principal supplier of materials that make the U.S. economy more energy-efficient. From insulation materials, roof coatings, lightweight vehicle parts and energy-saving tires; to appliances, light bulbs and materials for wind and solar power, our industry is essential to the nation’s efforts to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As one of America’s most energy-intensive sectors, we’re improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in our own operations.
Using Energy to Save Energy
American Chemistry uses large quantities of energy as raw materials or “feedstocks” in the production process. Petroleum and natural gas contain hydrocarbon molecules that are split apart during processing and recombined into chemistry products, including a variety of energy-saving materials. Energy saved by the use of these materials equals lower greenhouse gas emissions throughout the U.S. economy. read more...
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