Currently, the consumption of natural resources has increased rapidly in response to human demands. According to the Global Resources Outlook 2024 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the year 2023 saw the production of an astounding 92 billion tons of new materials. This figure is projected to rise by an additional 60% by 2060. Such an increase is a major contributor to environmental challenges, particularly climate change. Without changes in consumption and production patterns, unsustainable resource use is expected to account for more than 55% of greenhouse gas emissions and lead to a 90% decline in biodiversity. By that time, our planet may no longer be a livable environment for humanity.
Monitoring Global Plastic Production Trends
Among the various materials produced from natural resources, plastic remains essential and continues to experience increasing demand. Its versatility allows it to meet countless needs and makes it a crucial raw material in many industries. According to the report Plastics – The Fast Facts 2024, which categorizes sources of plastic production, global plastic production in 2023 amounted to 413.8 million tons. Of this, 90% was derived from fossil-based sources, 8.7% was recycled plastic, and only 0.7% was bioplastics or bio-based plastic materials.
What do these resource consumption figures tell us? These numbers highlight a stark reality: if humanity continues to consume resources as if they are inexhaustible, we will inevitably face a global environmental crisis in the future. However, if we look for opportunities to make the world a better place, recycling can significantly reduce the excessive use of resources on our planet.
SCGC Collaborates with Leading Brands to Develop Packaging from Recycled Plastic Resins
SCGC, a leader in polymer innovation for sustainability, is committed to conducting business in line with circular economy principles. Through the development of polymers or plastic resins made from recycled materials under the brand SCGC GREEN POLYMER™, SCGC partners with numerous renowned brands to produce high-quality recycled plastic packaging. This initiative aims to enhance environmental stewardship and provide consumers with eco-friendly products that meet their functional needs.
Unilever: From Households to Diverse Packaging Solutions SCGC has joined hands with Unilever to transform used household plastic into High-Quality Post-Consumer Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (PCR HDPE) resin. This recycled resin is utilized to manufacture packaging for various products, including Sunlight* dishwashing liquid gallon bottles, Comfort* fabric softener bottles, and Vaseline* bottles. Notably, this marks the first time in ASEAN where skincare product packaging has transitioned to 100% recycled material, maintaining its excellent properties without compromising the quality, scent, or texture of the product. Additionally, SCGC and Unilever have collaborated to develop Sunlight** dishwashing liquid bottle caps made from High-Quality Post-Consumer Recycled Polypropylene (PCR PP) resin, further advancing the use of sustainable materials in packaging solutions. (*Excludes color, labels, and caps / **Excludes color, labels, and bottles)
Feather: Packaging Designed for 100% Recyclability SCGC has collaborated with Kao Industrial (Thailand) to develop eco-friendly, fully recyclable packaging for the Feather haircare product line. The packaging is made from High-Quality Post-Consumer Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (PCR HDPE) resin, which is 100% recyclable. To enhance recycling efficiency, no color additives are used in the plastic, and the label is designed to be easily removable. This innovation minimizes waste and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
FURiO Ultra HD: Eco-Friendly Packaging with Traceable Origins SCGC, in partnership with Bangchak Corporation Public Company Limited and Panjawattana Plastic Public Company Limited, has launched sustainable packaging for FURiO Ultra HD diesel additives. This packaging incorporates household recycled materials combined with SCGC’s advanced innovations, resulting in durable and robust packaging. The packaging is certified by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), ensuring the traceability of the raw materials used in its production.
JBP: Thailand’s First 100% Recycled Paint Buckets SCGC has partnered with JBP to create a groundbreaking innovation in the paint industry—the first 100% recycled, eco-friendly paint buckets in Thailand. These sustainable buckets are made from high-quality recycled plastic and are used for JBP SMARTSHIELD-X building paint. This milestone marks a significant step forward in adopting sustainable packaging solutions in the paint industry.
Shell Helix Ultra: Premium Sustainability SCGC has partnered with Shell Thailand to develop eco-friendly lubricant packaging for "Shell Helix Ultra." The packaging is made from high-quality Post-Consumer Recycled Resin, preserving the exceptional quality of this world-class lubricant.
Lion: Odorless Innovation for Fragrance-Focused Products SCGC has collaborated with Lion (Thailand) to develop packaging for "Pao" liquid detergent using high-quality odorless Post-Consumer Recycled Resin (PCR). This innovation, the first of its kind in Thailand, is specifically designed for products that prioritize fragrance, maintaining the full integrity of the product's attributes.
These collaborations highlight the business sector's commitment to transforming products and services to be environmentally friendly. They also demonstrate SCGC's capabilities in producing high-quality recycled plastic resin with outstanding properties, offering innovative and sustainable solutions for brands to care for the planet.