Italy has historically been among the top consumers of plastic bags in Europe, but not anymore. As of January 1, 2011, the Italian government has banned non-biodegradable plastic bags in stores and supermarkets.
Enter the controversy: This ban has a positive environmental effect, but what does it mean for the plastics and packaging industries? There has been a backlash in Italy over fears that the ban will harm the plastic film industry.
However, the controversy does not center only in Italy. Italy may be the latest political body to ban plastic bags, but it’s not the only one. In the US, cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Baltimore have banned or are considering banning plastic bags. It is only a matter of time before the idea catches on worldwide.
The first factor to consider is the impact of viewing the environment as important on business and industrial ethics. Companies, especially industrial ones, now have to deal with the ethical implications of having products that are not friendly to the environment. Companies that don’t jump on the green bandwagon will be left behind and see their reputations tarnished.
The second factor is realizing that green products will play a crucial role in the survival of the business. Companies that provide environmentally friendly solutions will have a significant advantage in the future. “Eco-friendly” has already entered the marketing lexicon, but it’s much more than a slogan. For many, it is a rallying cry for changes in the law to support their beliefs. Today, it is the legislation on plastic bags. Next year, it may be other packaging materials. And in the future, entire industrial markets will be forced to adapt. How is your company responding?
Third, the industry must realize that, before long, radical solutions to environmental problems will emerge. Currently, green efforts are focused on incremental improvements. Little by little improvements and changes are being made in the industry. Soon, however, people will be ready to rethink their lifestyles and do business radically. Businesses that follow the new requirements of their customers and take advantage of these changes will have a head start.
Companies that listen to these three key trends, indicated by the spread of plastic bag bans, will survive, while companies whose models involve waste and pollution will face major challenges moving forward. How is your company changing to be more respectful of the environment? Or does it not change at all? Do you agree or disagree with our predictions?
