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What Bottles Don’t Tolerate
Reusable plastic bottles for water are ecologically sensible. But anyone using them for other beverages undermines the entire purpose of the carefully designed reuse system. Water bottles that are used incorrectly are sorted out and discarded. It’s enough to fill them with fruit juices, spritzers, or effervescent tablets.
Industry and consumers are committed to greater sustainability. That includes the reusable system for plastic bottles. These sturdy yet lightweight bottles can be refilled more than twenty times. And because they’re so practical, they’re often used for other purposes in daily life – whether for mixing with supplements or as everyday bottles filled with sweet or refreshing drinks.
Mixing and Refilling – a Clear No-Go for Water Bottles
Nothing should go into a reusable water bottle except what was originally inside: water. Otherwise, the bottles can no longer be used in the reuse system. Inspection systems at the filling facilities detect water bottles that were misused and remove and discard them. The reason: water bottles absorb the smell of other liquids – even ordinary beverages.
If anything other than water is filled in, the taste remains in the bottle and transfers directly into the next refill. The cleaning systems aren’t able to remove these lingering smells. Due to such foreign odors alone, 2% of all reusable bottles are sorted out and discarded.[1] That’s 20,000 bottles for every one million – not exactly a win for the environment.
Like with Like – No Risk to the System
Nothing happens if you refill your water bottle with water – still or sparkling. That keeps the bottle neutral in taste and part of the sustainable reuse system. It’s how enjoyment and environmental protection go hand in hand.
[1] https://www.voeslauer.com/de/produkte/mineralwasser/
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Sustainability in your hands: Plastic water bottles in reusable systems can be refilled many times – but only if consumers use them correctly, meaning without filling them with other beverages.
Plastic Builds the Future: Additive, Adaptive, Attractive
Plastics are playing an increasingly important role in modern construction - whether in innovative lightweight design or 3D printing. Compared to traditional building materials, they save resources and costs and reduce emissions. In addition, plastics offer multifunctional properties and open up new possibilities for creative architecture.
The construction sector is facing growing challenges: sand and gravel are becoming scarce, and urban housing is in short supply. At the same time, expectations around climate protection and sustainability are rising. A complex task.
Built with Plastic: More Efficient and High-Performing
According to a recent study by the Wuppertal Institute[1], the construction industry ranks among the most resource-intensive sectors. It accounts for nearly half of global raw material extraction, a third of global energy use, and is responsible for around 32% of global CO₂ emissions. Construction, renovation, and demolition also generate large amounts of waste—about 36% of total waste volume in the EU. The takeaway: growing cities need building methods that achieve more with less material. The solution: plastics.
Plastics are lightweight, durable, and highly formable. They insulate, conduct, and protect—permanently. Their material efficiency is particularly impressive: targeted fiber reinforcement makes plastic extremely strong with minimal volume. Window frames, pipes, and insulation materials are already largely made of plastic, and plastic façade systems are increasingly being used. The European construction sector consumes around 10 million tonnes of plastic per year, accounting for 20% of total plastic demand[2]. Thanks to their many advantages, the trend is rising.
Lightweight Builds from 3D Printers: Faster and More Efficient
Lightweight construction, in particular, has a promising future. “Lightweight design can help create urgently needed housing in cities by adding additional floors to existing buildings without overloading the foundations. Bridges built using lightweight materials require smaller foundations and can be erected more quickly,” says Prof. Dr. Markus Milwich from the Competence Center for Polymers and Fiber Composites at the DITF.
Lightweight construction means more than just reducing weight—it’s a strategic principle for urban transformation: from residential development and densification to hybrid constructions, infrastructure, digital building processes, and multifunctional façades. 3D printing with polymers takes this even further. In the USA, Netherlands, and China, entire houses are now being printed—from polymer-modified mortar or recycled plastic granules. This reduces time, material waste, and transport costs. No formwork. No offcuts. One house can be built in as little as 24 hours[3].
Sustainability through Plastic Mixes: Stronger and Future-Proof
Through compounding and fiber reinforcement, plastics can be specifically tailored for construction—by incorporating glass or carbon fibers. Fiber-reinforced plastics (GFRP, CFRP) are particularly durable and strong. Prof. Dr. Milwich explains: “When the steel reinforcement in concrete is replaced with mats or rods made from carbon, glass, basalt, or even natural fiber composites, the walls or floors can be made significantly thinner—because GFRP/CFRP reinforcements don’t rust. Rust was a leading cause of the bridge collapses in Dresden and Genoa.” The use of fiber-reinforced plastics not only increases safety, but also reduces material usage and costs—and protects the environment.
Even used PET bottles, processed into fibers, can help make concrete eco-friendlier and more robust. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) demonstrated: Adding even small amounts of surface-activated PET microfibers significantly increases concrete’s strength—meaning less is needed overall[4]. The lower cement demand reduces the high emissions from concrete production and less waste ends up in landfills from Façades to Foundations benefits the environment.
Whether it's PET-, glass-, or carbon-fiber-reinforced concrete, modular wall systems, plug-in façades, or interchangeable pipes—plastics offer flexibility, efficiency, and recyclability through modern sorting systems. Even driveway panels, barn flooring, manhole covers, or grid paving stones made from recycled plastic are gaining traction. These lightweight, water-permeable, and low-maintenance components can be installed in no time. Conclusion: Plastics make building lighter, faster, cheaper, and more sustainable—meeting the high demands of future urbanization.
[1] https://wupperinst.org/fileadmin/redaktion/downloads/projects/
[2] https://plasticseurope.org/de/nachhaltigkeit/klima/bauwirtschaft/
[3] https://iconbuild.com
[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/
Image Source: Plastic is Fantastic
Image Caption: The use of fiber-reinforced plastics not only increases safety, but also saves material and costs while protecting the environment.
Crash Protection: How Plastics Can Save Lives
Plastic is in a class of its own: not only is it lightweight and moldable, it also increases safety. Carbon- and glass-fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP/GFRP) absorb impact energy more efficiently than steel or aluminum - by breaking in a controlled manner rather than deforming. The result: better crash protection at significantly lower weight, and a major step forward for lightweight design.
Proven in motorsport, fiber-reinforced plastics are now widely used in lightweight construction - and increasingly in safety-critical production components such as crash boxes, B-pillars, and battery housings.
Dynamic Lightweighting
“Lightweight construction is a key strategy for saving materials and energy in component manufacturing,” says Prof. Dr. Markus Milwich of the Competence Center for Polymers and Fiber Composites at the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF), and representative of the Lightweight Construction Alliance Baden-Württemberg. The market is growing rapidly: a study commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy shows that patent applications for plastics and plastic composites in lightweight construction rose by nearly 400% between 2001 and 2021[1]. “In 2019, lightweight construction contributed about 4% to Germany’s GDP and accounted for roughly 3.2 million jobs,” says Prof. Milwich.
High Crash Resistance
In mobility industries, carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) are a focal point - especially for safety. CFRP components can absorb up to 100 kJ/kg of specific impact energy, far more than steel’s 20–30 kJ/kg[2]. Instead of collapsing abruptly, the composite material disperses crash energy in a controlled, stepwise manner. Hybrid sandwich structures - featuring a plastic core and fiber-reinforced skins - provide a clear safety advantage for vehicle occupants.
Lower Impact Forces
CFRP is up to 50% lighter than steel[3]. Less weight means less energy during impact - translating to lower injury risk. The Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability (LBF) has developed a 3D sandwich battery housing made from fiber-reinforced plastic that is 40% lighter than aluminum. The design integrates flame protection, complies with ISO 12405-2/-3 safety standards[4], and provides robust protection for electric vehicles - at a fraction of the weight.
More Sustainability
Lower weight also means reduced energy consumption. “Especially for moving masses such as in cars, aircraft, and ships, every gram saved leads to fuel savings over the vehicle’s lifetime,” explains Prof. Milwich. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, reducing a vehicle’s weight by 10% can lower energy consumption by up to 8%[5].
Fiber-reinforced plastics improve efficiency without compromising safety. A further step: thermoplastic matrix systems based on PET, which combine recyclability with the strength of carbon[6]. Plastics are becoming essential materials for high-performance lightweight structures in the mobility systems of the future. Prof. Milwich sums it up: “Thanks to their outstanding energy and resource efficiency, lightweight designs are key to climate protection, sustainability, and conserving raw materials.”
[1] https://www.bundeswirtschaftsministerium.de/Redaktion/DE
[2] Soutis, C. (2005). Fibre reinforced composites in aircraft construction. Progress in Aerospace Sciences, 41(2), 143–151
[3] https://www.ipa.fraunhofer.de/de/presse/presseinformationen
[4] https://www.lbf.fraunhofer.de/de/projekte
[5] https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles
[6] https://2018.lbf-jahresbericht.de/leistungen
Image Source: Plastic is Fantastic – AI-generated using DALL·E
Image Caption: Less weight, less crash energy – lower risk of injury. The illustration shows how fiber-reinforced plastics absorb impact forces in a controlled manner, enhancing vehicle safety.
What actually makes waste mainstream
Plogging, trash challenges and CleanUp Days - all mass movements against waste. There is plenty of waste, but at the center of the clean-up hype is usually the fight against plastic, symbolized above all by the collection of old plastic bottles. Should we therefore avoid plastic? A study comes to a different conclusion: more packaging would be needed if plastic packaging were replaced by alternatives. And plastic also contributes more to a cleaner world than some people think.
Producing less waste and ridding the world of accumulated waste is now a high priority for politicians and the general public. Plastic waste plays a central role in this - not in a negative, but in a positive way.
Plastic creates awareness and advances the circular economy
The images of masses of plastic waste have had an important effect: waste has become the focus of public attention. Furthermore, this should lead to an awareness of effective disposal and innovative recycling, not an aversion to plastic. After all, plastic is one of the most flexible materials of all. Without plastic, there would be no modern world. And waste becomes waste if it is treated carelessly. In this context, it is interesting to note that up to 20 percent more packaging and therefore more waste would be produced if 10 percent of plastic packaging were replaced by alternative materials - as documented by a recent study by the Gesellschaft für Verpackungsmarktforschung (GVM[1]).
However, plastic is not only an advanced material that makes products accessible to poorer sections of the population thanks to its low manufacturing costs, it is also proving to be forward-looking when disposed of correctly: the recovery of recyclable materials - which only really got going with plastic waste - is driving the circular economy forward, including advances in material efficiency, recycling and conversion technologies.
Material and thermal recycling systems are among the most ecologically sustainable ways of dealing with plastic waste: old products are turned into new ones or the waste is converted into energy, known as waste-to-energy. The recently passed Building Energy Act (GEG) in Germany even puts waste heat from thermal waste treatment for heating systems on a par with renewable energy, on a par with wind and solar energy. And British scientists have succeeded in producing the flavoring agent vanillin[2] from PET plastic with the help of intestinal bacteria (E. coli), an important contribution to the sustainability of plastic and a milestone for the possibilities of synthetic biology, according to the researchers[3].
Mass trends, clean-up days and social initiatives are having an impact
In addition to advances in material and thermal recycling, more and more consumers are getting involved in waste collection. Mindfulness is the keyword, a lifestyle trend that has given rise to the many waste disposal movements. Joggers pick up litter while plogging, walkers and hikers do the same while plalking and pliking, i.e. walking and hiking. Social media users and influencers practice and organize trash challenges. International and regional clean-up events, such as Cleanup Day, are seeing growing numbers of participants - the next one will take place on September 20, 2025.
It is important that in the fight against waste, attention is also drawn to what causes waste - not the material, but how it is handled. For example, studies in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, the largest garbage patch in the world, show that 75 to 86 percent of plastic waste in the sea comes from fishing[4]. In addition, just 10 rivers in Africa and Asia flush the majority of the world's plastic waste from land into the oceans, mainly due to a lack of disposal systems[5].
But even here there are positive developments: Where there is a lack of regulated waste disposal structures, initiatives are developing that turn plastic waste into a barter good and source of income. These include the Plasticbank and its motto "Social Plastic" as well as IMER: a commitment in Mexico in which the Austrian packaging manufacturer Alpla is involved in collecting plastic waste from regional collectors for a fee using its own trucks. In addition, "Ecobricking" turns plastic bottles into sustainable building materials for houses and furniture[6]. The German-South African joint project "EcoBrick Exchange" even uses it to build schools and has received several awards for this, including the Climate Change Award Cape Town, the SEED Award of the United Nations and the Architecture for Social Gains Award[7]. Plastic is therefore valuable in every phase of its material existence.
[1] https://newsroom.kunststoffverpackungen.de
[2] https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding
[3] https://www.chemie.de/news/1171462
[4] https://theoceancleanup.com/updates
[5] https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/911846
[6] https://ecobricks.org/en/
[7] https://ecobrickexchange.org/views/home#about
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Being at peace with the world: More and more people are getting involved in picking up litter. A trend that has two important effects – a clean environment and the realization that waste is a recyclable material.
Plastic bags help protect the environment
In 1965, a Swedish engineer filed a groundbreaking patent in the USA: "A bag made of weldable plastic with handles." Today, we know this product as the plastic bag. Sten Gustaf Thulin came up with the idea because the rising demand for paper bags at the time led to increasing deforestation in Sweden.
From a practical standpoint, plastic bags are still a brilliant invention. They are waterproof inside and out, weigh almost nothing, and can carry up to a thousand times their own weight. They can be folded small enough to fit in any pocket. Depending on material thickness, they can be reused multiple times.
Nevertheless, plastic bags have a poor public image, which has led to bans on them in some parts of the world. Their bad reputation stems from being seen as disposable items, even though they can be reused many times and for long periods before eventually tearing. The public perceives paper or cotton alternatives as more environmentally friendly because they come from plants. That might sound reassuring - but it’s not. Take paper bags: the extraction of raw wood, the manufacturing of paper, and the transport to consumers consume far more resources than comparable plastic packaging. A paper bag would have to be reused more than 40 times to match the environmental footprint of a single-use plastic bag. Sten Gustaf Thulin foresaw this. More paper means more wood, which threatens forests.
A cotton bag made from organic cotton would need to be used at least 130 times to be a truly sensible alternative. That’s because growing these plants requires large amounts of fertilizers and water. Over time, this leads to soil salinization and reduced fertility.
Those advocating for a ban on plastic bags may also underestimate consumers' rational behavior. Where plastic bags have been banned, demand for them has dropped - but demand for trash bags has risen. These are also made from plastic, as the material offers unbeatable qualities: impermeability and tear resistance. Before the ban, many consumers reused their shopping bags multiple times and finally used them for collecting recyclables and residual waste.
That would have been exactly what their inventor intended. In an interview with a British outlet, his son once said: “My father would have found it bizarre if people simply threw away such a practical item.
Carefree on the beach
Summer temperatures will soon be luring people into cool water. If you want to take drinks with you when you go swimming, you should pay attention to safety, especially with glass bottles. Due to the risk of injury from broken glass, many places already have a ban on glass. Lightweight and shatterproof plastic bottles are a safe alternative for quenching your thirst on the go. This is also the opinion of the German Life Saving Association (DLRG).
Caution advised
Especially at bathing lakes or the sea, where people spend most of their time barefoot, bringing along glass bottles poses a high risk: If they break, injuries can quickly occur. “Broken glass leads to accidents time and time again,” reports Martin Holzhause, DLRG spokesperson, in an interview. That's why glass bottles are usually banned on many beaches to prevent the risk of cuts. An important preventative measure for good reasons.
Children and dogs are particularly affected
Broken glass on the ground can cause harm to people because it is often difficult to see in the grass or sand. In addition, the fine and barely visible shards of glass spread over a wide radius, which further increases the risk of injury. Small children are particularly at risk. The DLRG provides first aid in the event of accidents. But it's not just people who are at risk from shards and splinters; the sensitive paws of dogs and cats are also at risk of serious injuries.
Be on the safe side
So, if you want to quench your thirst carefree on the beach, lightweight yet sturdy plastic bottles are a safe and reliable choice. This is also confirmed by DLRG spokesman Martin Holzhause. Those who opt for PET bottles are also making a sustainable choice. Even during production and transportation, plastic bottles save a lot of energy compared to glass due to their low melting point and low weight. And when dis-posed of properly, used PET bottles are easy to recycle. As a result, both feet and paws as well as bathing lakes and the sea are helped.
Interview with DLRG spokesperson Martin Holzhause (MH):
“The risk of a cut comes particularly from glass bottles”
Are drinks in breakable glass bottles really a safety risk at bathing lakes?
MH: Broken glass always leads to accidents. These are of a minor nature, but every cut that spoils the fun of swimming or even ends it prematurely is unnecessary.
Where is broken glass/shards most likely to be found? On the sunbathing lawn, on the shore or even in the water?
MH: That varies. In general, you can expect more broken glass on land. The risk of injury is therefore greater, for example when walking bare-foot or picking up fragments lying around. Shards often end up in the water when bottles are thrown deliberately. The glass sinks to the bot-tom and poses a risk of injury, especially in shallow waters.
If bathers are cut by broken glass, does the DLRG provide wound care?
MH: Yes, the volunteer lifeguards are on duty at over 1,100 open waters during the spring and summer and provide first aid in such cases. Treating cuts is part of their everyday business. Patients are referred to a doctor for further treatment. In the case of deep, heavily bleeding wounds, the emergency services may be called directly.
Assuming proper disposal (garbage can, container, at home) - are un-breakable plastic bottles a safe alternative from your point of view?
MH: Definitely. Glass bottles in particular pose a risk of cuts.
Which safety tips can you give visitors to the lake? Especially with regards to handling glass bottles?
MH: Anyone who prefers to buy drinks in glass bottles should fill them into a plastic bottle before visiting the beach. Glass bottles should al-ways be kept in your bag if possible. If you take the bottles home with you, they should be thrown directly into the nearest garbage can after emptying. Injuries can be avoided by wearing flip-flops or swimming shoes.
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Using PET bottles, visitors can ensure safety on their next beach trip – paving the way for carefree fun in the water.
The heavy and costly burden
Producing glass requires a great deal of energy and is therefore particularly affected by high procurement prices. In 2022, the Federal Association of the Glass Industry reported a fivefold increase in costs. The beverage industry is expected to pass these price hikes on to consumers. A good alternative: PET bottles – in more ways than one.
Fired up 24/7: glass likes it hot
Glass production is hotter than a volcano. Raw materials like sand, lime, and soda must be heated to 1,600 degrees Celsius to melt. Even when using 65% recycled glass shards, it still requires 1,400 degrees Celsius. To maintain these temperatures, furnaces must run continuously on gas or oil – any pause could destroy them. This energy requirement is costly, especially now, with soaring energy prices, despite government-imposed price caps.
According to the German Environment Agency, glass production is among the most energy-intensive industries, with high demands for energy and significant emissions of CO2, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action reported in its 2020 “Glass Industry Profile” that in 2015 the glass industry required 51.93 petajoules (about 14,436 gigawatt-hours) of energy just for the melting process. For comparison: a typical 6 MW wind turbine produces around 10 gigawatt-hours per year – enough for approximately 3,500 households[1]. To meet the glass industry's 2015 energy needs, 1,443 wind turbines would be required – equivalent to powering over 5 million households annually.
The same year, the glass industry emitted 4.881 million tons of CO2[2]. As such, the German Environment Agency notes, glass production can never be truly sustainable. However, there are alternatives for container glass used in beverage packaging that consume less energy and are more climate-friendly – chief among them: PET plastic bottles.
Reusable or disposable: which is more eco-friendly?
Glass and PET bottles share similarities: both are made from raw materials – sand for glass, petroleum for PET. However, PET bottles require only around 265 degrees Celsius to manufacture – more than 83% less heat than glass.
Both materials are used for reusable and disposable bottles and can be similarly well recycled. For reusable bottles, the German Environment Agency finds no major difference between glass and PET[3]. Glass bottles can be refilled up to 50 times, PET about half that. This reuse offsets raw material use and enhances sustainability. Producing new bottles consumes more energy and resources than transporting and cleaning reusables.
But this view is contested. “Environmental assessments reveal: the Achilles’ heel of reusable bottles is transportation logistics,” notes Dr. Isabell Schmidt from the German Plastic Packaging Industry Association.
A further challenge to the glass bottle reuse system is the use of individual (non–standardized) bottles for branding purposes, which can’t be reused by other fillers. These foreign bottles – up to 50% of returns – must be sorted out and returned to the original producer, incurring additional transport costs and ecological disadvantages.
Weighty matter: why logistics matters
Transport is a major factor in the energy and emissions balance of packaging, especially glass. The greater the distance between producer, filler, and retailer, the higher the impact – especially considering the weight. A 1-liter PET bottle weighs about 28 grams, a 1-liter glass bottle about 550 grams – nearly 20 times more. One metric ton equals 1,800 glass bottles or 35,000 PET bottles. The heavier the packaging, the more energy-intensive the logistics.
This becomes even more apparent when returning deposit bottles from retailers to recyclers. The Alliance for Future Beverage Packaging (BGVZ) calculated that 400,000 compressed PET bottles require one truckload, while 400,000 glass bottles need 26 truckloads.
The “Glass Industry Outlook 2030+” from the IG BCE’s Foundation for Labour and Environment outlines opportunities and risks. Challenges include energy-intensive production and the difficulty in transitioning to lower-emission technologies[4]. The industry fears ongoing high energy costs and stricter environmental regulations. Recent data confirms this: the Federal Statistical Office reported that in early 2023, producer prices for colorless glass bottles rose by 40.2% compared to January 2022, and colored glass bottles by 37%. Rising energy prices and increased raw material costs – 58.5% for soda, 30.4% for quartz sand, and 27.3% for limestone[5] – are the culprits. The glass industry also anticipates stronger competition from alternative materials like PET bottles.
[1] praxistipps.chip.de/wie-viel-strom-produziert-ein-windrad-das-muessen-sie- wissen_155947
[2] (BMWK) provides in the ‘Glass Industry Profile’ from 2020
[3] Umweltbundesamt.de/umwelttipps-fuer-den-alltag/essen trinken/mehrwegflaschen#unsere-tipps
[4] Spiegel.de, 16.03.2023
[5] Spiegel.de, 16.03.2023
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Hotter than a volcano – this is how glass is produced. Raw materials like sand, lime, and soda need up to 1,600 degrees Celsius to melt.
A world without plastics? Wrong question!
Images of mountains of plastic waste polarize the discussion about how to solve the problem. It is often demanded that plastics be completely banned. Upon closer inspection, however, it becomes clear: especially when it comes to sustainability, this demand is not sensible.
This text would not have been written in a world without plastics. Written with a plastic PC keyboard, in front of a monitor whose casing is also made of plastic. Admittedly, in a plastic-free world, alternatives might have been found to get this text out: perhaps with a completely metal typewriter from a flea market and a mimeograph machine, also made of metal, bought second-hand. Then the printed pages would have been put into envelopes, addressed, taken to the post office, and sent out. But at this point, personal control over the use of plastics would end. At the post office, the letters would land in a stacking tray made of plastic.
The idea of freeing the world from plastics is a notion often circulated. But it's more than questionable whether the world could simply do without them. Plastics seem indispensable not only in the electronics industry. Also in modern construction, in means of transport, and especially in medicine. Hygiene and infection protection without disposable syringes, single-use gloves, surgical masks, or sterile packaging for bandaging materials are hard to imagine.
There are reasons why plastics are so deeply embedded in so many areas of life. The material can take on many forms: from ultra-thin films to high-strength components for aircraft fuselages. It is lighter than alternative materials with comparable strength, can be molded with relatively low energy input, and is suitable for hygienically enclosing food and making it last longer.
It is worth rethinking the question in the title. Before looking for ways to rid the world of plastic, one should ask whether this is even a meaningful demand. It is not, as the examples mentioned already show. The idea that plastics are a problem is shaped by images of uncontrolled waste from consumer society. It is true that plastic that ends up in the environment remains there for a long time and breaks down into smaller and smaller particles. But it's not the material itself that's the problem - it's the way we deal with it.
Sustainability experts also advise critically questioning alternatives to plastic. Glass instead of PET bottles has specific disadvantages. Glass becomes moldable only at temperatures of at least 1300 degrees Celsius, thus consuming significantly more energy in production than PET, which can be processed at around 260 degrees. The empty weight of a 1.5-liter PET bottle from ALPLA is 33 grams. To transport the same amount of water, you would need two 0.75-liter glass bottles weighing a total of 1,000 grams - about 30 times more. The energy required for transportation is accordingly much higher. For reusable glass bottles, return transport and cleaning also consume energy and water. A PET beverage bottle that is turned into a new beverage container through so-called "bottle-to-bottle" recycling is the more sustainable solution. Even better is a reusable PET bottle.
The seemingly plausible argument that paper bags are more environmentally friendly than plastic bags also does not hold up under scrutiny. From raw material extraction - in the case of paper, that’s wood - through manufacturing, transportation, and disposal, paper as a packaging material is not more sustainable. On the contrary: a paper bag would have to be reused three to four times to match the environmental footprint of a plastic bag. A cotton tote bag would even need to be used at least 130 times to be a truly viable alternative.
Packaging accounts for about one-third of all plastics produced worldwide. Much of it is single-use and disposed of directly after use. Experts recommend reducing the number and variety of materials used and making recycling systems mandatory. For PET, a functioning value chain is already established in many countries.
When PET bottles have reached the end of their use as packaging, they can still be employed in many industrial areas, such as textile manufacturing, as secondary raw material. If plastics are incinerated for energy at the end of their life cycle, the problem of uncontrolled waste in the environment does not arise in the first place. When used sustainably, plastics are the best solution for many of the challenges of the modern world. A world without plastic will, for good reasons, remain a utopia.
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Plastic makes everyday life easier: Plastic packaging is lightweight, hygienic, and keeps food fresh.
Well-equipped on the road
Whether you're heading off on a long-distance trip or a short getaway – if you’re traveling by car, chances are you're not just packing luggage but also snacks and drinks, especially when traveling with children. One important safety tip: glass bottles, which can shatter easily in an accident, should always be stored carefully inside the vehicle. Or better yet, opt for plastic bottles – the ADAC (German Automobile Club) recommends this too.
When it comes to safety, we often think of brakes, tires, and lights first, or check for a high-visibility vest, warning triangle, and first-aid kit. And of course, everyone buckles up before departure. But we often overlook the cargo in the car's interior. Loose items can quickly become dangerous projectiles during sudden braking or evasive maneuvers.
High impact, high risk
The danger lies in physics[1]: in the event of a sudden stop or head-on collision at 50 km/h unsecured objects can hit with up to 50 times their original weight. Even at lower speeds, the force is considerable. Fragile items like glass bottles can pose a serious risk of injury – when they shatter on impact, sharp shards may become dangerous flying objects.
Be cautious with glass, prefer plastic
The ADAC conducted a crash test to demonstrate the dangers of unsecured items and offers practical advice[2]: avoid placing fragile objects openly in the car’s cabin. ADAC spokesperson Michael Gebhardt explains: "The risk of glass bottles breaking in a crash and causing injury from the shards is definitely there. If bottles are carried in closed bags, the risk can be greatly reduced. Alternatively, using plastic bottles is a safer option."
Conclusion
When packing your car, and especially when placing items in the cabin, be extra careful. Secure loose objects properly and – for drinks on the go – plastic bottles are the safest bet. That way, you're ready to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
[1] Force = Mass × Acceleration (F = m × a)
[2] https://www.adac.de/rund-ums-fahrzeug/ausstattung-technik-zubehoer/ladungssicherung/ladung-sichern/
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Always stable and safe: Plastic bottles are a shatterproof option for drinks on the go. In general, luggage in the car should be stored securely. Sharp and fragile objects in particular can pose a risk of injury to passengers during sudden braking or accidents.
Juicy but safe: for a safe family BBQ
Fun and attention are the guiding principles at barbecues. Because besides the fun there are dangers lurking - not just around an open fire. Caution is also required with drinks, especially if they are in glass bottles. If they break, the shards can quickly lead to cuts. Children and dogs are particularly affected, even wild animals, says a forester.
Whether in your own garden, on a meadow or at public barbecue areas in the forest: you don't want to be left high and dry at a picnic or with a sizzling barbecue. It is only natural to reach for a thirst quencher - but be careful if the bottle is made of glass.
Don't underestimate the risk of breakage
Glass bottles break easily, especially when things get hot. Shards and splinters, which pose a potential risk of injury, are often found in playgrounds and barbecue areas. Experts therefore advise careful handling, such as Kathrin Klein from the Schönbuch forest district near Stuttgart, which is part of the Baden-Württemberg state forest. "It's best to store glass bottles somewhere or securely place them on the ground. If a bottle does break, the broken glass should be completely collected," recommends the forester. In addition, she advises "before using the playground equipment in residential areas, check the area briefly for sharp objects, especially the fall protection, and don't necessarily walk barefoot."
Consider wildlife protection and the risk of forest fires
Not only humans and accompanying dogs can get cut by broken glass, natural forest dwellers are equally at risk. Kathrin Klein: "Of course, wild animals can also injure themselves on the shards, especially if the glass shards have the smell of something edible on them.
In hot summers, glass bottles and shards pose another danger: forest fires. To avoid possible ignition sources due to the burning glass effect, for example, the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior in 2023 urged walkers and hikers to take and dispose of "small arsonists" like bottles or glass shards from the forest.[1] Fortunately, there has been no forest fire caused by a glass shard in her forest district, forester Klein emphasizes: "But it is conceivable and cannot be ruled out with certainty in the future."
Use drinks in plastic as a stable alternative
PET plastic bottles are not only lightweight, but also extremely robust and do not break. Their use therefore eliminates the risk of injury - which is particularly important when children or pets are nearby. Forester Klein also confirms this: "There is certainly no risk of injury from shatterproof plastic bottles."
Attentive behavior includes not leaving any garbage behind or disposing of it properly. The barbecue areas and playgrounds are visited twice a week during the summer months. Then the full garbage cans are emptied, and "wild garbage" is collected, says Kathrin Klein. The playground equipment and fall protection are also checked for sharp objects, such as broken glass. "If shards are discovered, they will of course be collected," assures the forester. In total, around 30 tons of waste are disposed of in the state forest around Stuttgart every year. Nevertheless, a personal sense of responsibility is important. And plastic waste in particular can be easily recycled. Kathrin Klein: "That's why we appeal to people to simply dispose of plastic bottles and packaging waste at home. It's also good for the forest." And for those who would like to enjoy their family BBQ there carefree.
[1] https://im.baden-wuerttemberg.de/de/service/presse-und-oeffentlichkeitsarbeit/pressemitteilung/pid/erhoehte-waldbrandgefahr
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Danger to humans, animals, and the environment: shards of broken glass bottles can seriously injure feet and paws and cause forest fires in hot summers due to the burning glass effect.
What to look out for on the way
Over 39 million people go hiking in Germany[1]. Whether nature lovers, family hikers or professional summiteers, good equipment is crucial. Above all, this includes sufficient liquid, preferably in plastic bottles, for example made of PET, due to their stability and low weight. This is also the opinion of the German Alpine Association.
Up to 2 liters of drink per person per day
If you are planning a day of hiking, you should consider your fluid requirements. Stefan Winter, mountain guide and head of sports development at the German Alpine Association (DAV), says: "Six hours of hiking is roughly a day's hike. You should carry 1 to 2 liters of drinks with you." Heat and walking speed also play an important role in fluid consumption, says Stefan Winter: "The body sweats more in hot temperatures, as well as at a fast-walking pace." The mountain guide therefore advises: "If you only take 1 liter with you, you should plan to fill up with water at a hut or a clean spring."
Use plastic bottles instead of glass
DAV head of department Stefan Winter: "Glass bottles are unsuitable for hiking. They are heavier than plastic bottles and can break. Be careful when putting them down in rocky terrain!" Broken glass bottles happen all the time. "Shards are not just a visual nuisance", emphasizes mountain guide Winter, "they can also damage the soles of your shoes." And warns: "Caution is advised in summer when you are barefoot, for example during a hiking break, to relax and ventilate your feet, as there is a risk of cuts." Small and hard-to-see glass splinters in particular spread over a wide radius, which further increases the risk of injury and damage.
Think about wildlife protection and the risk of forest fires
But it's not just people who are at risk from the shards and splinters; the sensitive paws of dogs on the trail are also at risk of serious injury. Kathrin Klein, a forester from the Schönbuch forest district near Stuttgart, which is part of the Baden-Württemberg state forest, explains: "Of course, wild animals can also injure themselves on the shards, especially if the glass shards have the smell of something edible on them.”
In hot summers, glass bottles and broken glass pose another danger: forest fires. To avoid potential ignition sources due to the burning glass effect, the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior, for example, called on walkers and hikers in 2023 to take "small arsonists" such as bottles or broken glass out of the forest and dispose of them[2].
Conclusion: Hiking with a view and foresight
This is why experienced hikers are already using plastic bottles. "Food-safe plastic bottles are now common when hiking", emphasizes DAV expert Stefan Winter. They are part of good equipment. Those who opt for plastic bottles are also making a sustainable choice. Even during production and transportation, plastic bottles save a lot of energy compared to glass due to their low melting point and low weight. And if disposed of properly, the used bottles can be recycled sustainably.
In any case, it is important not to leave drinks containers and garbage behind when out and about. If there is any broken glass, it should be carefully collected and disposed of properly. Then all nature lovers, family hikers and professional summiteers can enjoy a well-supplied, shard-free and therefore light-footed day of hiking.
[1] https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/272532
[2] https://im.baden-wuerttemberg.de/de/service
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Experienced hikers rely on plastic bottles: Unlike glass bottles, they are lightweight and unbreakable. Mountain guide Stefan Winter from the German Alpine Association agrees: "Glass bottles are unsuitable for hiking. They are heavier than plastic bottles and can break." Which means a risk of injury to people and animals from shards of glass lying around.
Plastic waste: From problem to potential
Waste has always been something hidden. It is only with the global emergence of plastic waste that the way we handle with used materials has become visible. Especially in the form of used plastic bottles - they are seen as a sign of a careless throwaway mentality. One thing is clear: plastic should not end up in the environment - which is also highlighted by the annual World Environment Day on June 5, 2025. A change is taking place here: plastic waste is increasingly being discovered as a valuable raw material. In this way, waste is becoming part of the solution.
Plastic is an ongoing success story. Established for decades as a central component of industry and daily life, plastic is also becoming an important factor for a sustainable circular economy after the use phase.
From disposable product to source of recyclable materials
The global presence of plastic waste and its ability to be recycled has realigned the political agenda and society's attitude towards waste and the environment. It is a fundamental paradigm shift: what was previously considered useless waste is now increasingly being discovered as a valuable resource. So instead of simply disposing of waste as quickly as possible as usual, it is now being used effectively - either through material recycling, which turns the used material into new components or complete products. Or with thermal utilization, which generates fresh energy by usingwaste that cannot or can no longer be recycled.
Drivers for transformation
The perception of waste as a potential raw material is also driving many innovations: from the expansion of safe and mobile plants for the thermal conversion of waste into electricity to the compostability of certain plastics and innovative processing techniques, such as molecular plastic recycling with enzymes.
Added to this is the use of new biomaterials and packaging designs with higher material efficiency, lower weight and increasing use of recyclates. These advances will ultimately lead to a circular recycling loop in which there is no more waste, as already demonstrated by the PET bottle-to-bottle system.
More mindfulness and initiatives
These developments are reinforced by sensitized consumers who are increasingly mindful of waste and take part in clean-up campaigns. Effective deposit and disposal systems as well as numerous initiatives for the productive recycling of waste also make an important contribution - such as the IMER and PLANETA recycling plants in Mexico, which accept plastic waste from local collectors for a fee and thus combine environmental protection and income opportunities.
Conclusion - plastic waste opens up new perspectives
The key to this process of change lies in giving plastic a value. Waste is thus transformed from a useless and problematic residual material into a raw material with potential. The economic incentive creates secondary markets that generate and promote innovative recovery concepts and advanced recycling technologies.
It also results in a fundamentally new perspective on waste - it is consciously perceived, triggering a better understanding of the value and life cycle of resources. This leads to a more responsible use of the material in any form, accompanied by a reduced tendency to waste and a greater willingness to dispose of it. Used plastic bottles are then no longer seen as a sign of a careless throwaway mentality, but become a symbol of an active and sustainable circular economy. All in the spirit of World Environment Day.
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Due to their good recyclability, used plastic bottles are increasingly evolving from a disposable product into a source of recyclable materials. This is also changing our awareness of waste: waste is turning from a problem into a potential, leading to more mindful handling and greater environmental protection.
Better not made of cardboard
Check out our film: https://www.youtube.com/shorts
Easter time is egg time. And for those who want to store and transport eggs safely, egg packaging made from 100 percent recycled plastic proves to be the best choice: Compared to cardboard cartons, the lightweight plastic containers offer greater stability and are more resistant to moisture. Their smooth surface also reduces the risk of contamination by germs. Additionally, the packaging allows a direct view of the condition of the eggs. Moreover, plastic packaging can be produced in an energy-efficient manner and recycled after use.
Brightly colored Easter eggs are a traditional sign for celebrating spring, life, and renewal. Everything that plastic also represents: lightness, ecology, and recycling.
Plastic Egg Cartons: A Significant Difference
A conventional gray 10-egg carton made of cardboard weighs about 45-50 grams, while the plastic alternative is nearly 40 percent lighter[1]. With around 13.1 billion eggs produced annually in Germany[2] and packaged in approximately 1 billion egg cartons[3], this weight difference adds up significantly: The total weight difference between the two types of packaging amounts to about 20,000 tons – the equivalent of almost 3,000 trucks[4]. Due to the twice as high stacking density when transporting empty plastic egg cartons, another 3,000 truck trips per year can be avoided. These transport savings through plastic packaging conserve energy and reduce CO₂ emissions[5].
Cardboard Cartons: A Complex Process with Environmental Costs
The production of cardboard egg cartons is anything but simple. Even recycling wastepaper is a complex process: Collected paper must be sorted and then cleaned using mechanical and chemical methods. The wastepaper is then dissolved and processed into a stable fiber mat. The entire process requires a significant amount of water, energy, and technical precision. Depending on the requirement, the finished cardboard is also coated and printed. Estimates suggest that about 10 to 20 percent of new paper from fresh wood is also used. This is not truly an ecological system since, in addition to the trees that are felled, the production of fresh fiber paper requires an average of about 50,000 liters of water per ton - one reason why the German Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) has long stated that paper production harms the environment and nature[6]. By using egg packaging made from 100 percent recycled plastic (rPET), 84 percent less water and about 26 percent less energy are required[7].
Packaging as a Valuable Material: The Recycling Advantage of Plastic
Used egg cartons cannot always be recycled and reintroduced into the material cycle – if an egg breaks, which often happens with cardboard, the packaging must go into residual waste instead of paper recycling. In contrast, clean or cleaned plastic containers can be recycled up to 100 percent. Furthermore, an increasing number of plastic packages are already made from recycled material (rPET), further improving their ecological footprint.
Robust Shell: More Protection, Less Resource Consumption
Plastic packaging is resistant and less susceptible to dirt and moisture penetration. This increases product protection and extends shelf life. Additionally, transparent plastic containers allow an immediate check of whether the eggs are intact. If an egg is damaged, the plastic packaging prevents leakage and protects other packages and, depending on the packaging design, the other eggs from contamination. This is a key advantage – Austrian specialist for transparent egg packaging “Ovotherm” points out that producing 10 eggs requires 40 to 50 times more resources than producing their packaging. A broken egg can occur in both paper and plastic packaging. The fundamental difference is that in a cardboard package, if one egg breaks, the leaking liquid contaminates the packaging and the eggs below, making them unsellable. If an egg breaks in a cardboard package, up to 19 intact eggs may need to be discarded. Furthermore, the environmental impact of just two damaged eggs per 100 packaged eggs is as high as the impact of packaging all 100 eggs[8].
Cardboard as a Germ Trap: Why Plastic Offers Better Protection
The higher resistance of plastic packaging to moisture is a crucial hygiene factor: While the porous structure of cardboard absorbs moisture and creates a favorable environment for microorganisms, plastic surfaces are smoother and less permeable, making it harder for bacteria to survive. This means the risk of germ transmission is generally higher in cardboard egg cartons than in plastic ones. According to Ökotest, many consumers are unaware that egg cartons can be hazardous to health.
The reason: Eggs are only roughly cleaned before packaging, meaning pathogens can remain on the shells and transfer to the carton. Particularly dangerous are salmonella, which can cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses. For this reason, the German Food Hygiene Regulation requires food to be protected from any contamination during storage. It is therefore strongly advised against reusing egg cartons, as, unlike plastic containers, cardboard cannot be cleaned. Used egg cartons cannot always be recycled and reintroduced into the material cycle – if an egg breaks, which often happens with cardboard, the packaging must go into residual waste instead of paper recycling. In contrast, clean or cleaned plastic containers can be recycled up to 100 percent. Furthermore, an increasing number of plastic packages are already made from recycled material (rPET), further improving their ecological footprint.
[1] Dimensions: 19.1 cm length, 14.5 cm width, 6.4 cm height
[2] https://www.destatis.de/Pressemitteilungen/2024.html
[3] Does not take into account the share of eggs sold unpackaged or further processed by the industry
[4] Assumed Weight: Truck – 7 Tons
[5] https://www.ovotherm.com/de/environment/
[6] https://www.nabu.de/umwelt-und-ressourcen.html
[7] https://www.ovotherm.com/de/environment/
[8] https://www.ovotherm.com/site/umweltfolder.pdf
[9] https://www.oekotest.de/essen-trinken.html
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Egg packaging made of plastic – more hygienic, more stable, and with a clear view of the product.
Danger in the gym: what you should definitely watch out for
Over half a liter of fluid and important electrolytes can be lost per hour during physical exertion. The German Sports Academy therefore recommends drinking mineralized water or juice spritzers. Preferably from unbreakable bottles - they prevent the risk of injury, which is why it cannot be forbidden to take them into the gym.
Fitness centers usually offer in-house drinks to quench your thirst during training. However, if you don't want to buy refreshments at the gym, you can also bring your own to hydrate yourself. However, not every drinks packaging is suitable - and permitted.
Own drinks yes, but not from glass bottles
Owners of sports studios are not allowed to completely ban people from bringing their own drinks, “as hydration is essential for sports enthusiasts”, according to JuraForum, an online legal portal. However, it goes on to say: “A ban regulated in the contract may, however, be directed at certain containers if they could pose a risk of injury. This can usually be assumed for glass bottles[1].” The statements are based on various court rulings.
For good reason. “When glass bottles break, there is a risk of cuts from the resulting shards,” confirms David Klinkhammer, tutor and lecturer at the German Sports Academy. And emphasizes: “Especially in areas where barefoot walking or floor exercises are carried out, this can pose a considerable danger.” This risk does not exist with unbreakable plastic flaps.
Sturdy plastic bottles as a safe alternative
David Klinkhammer also believes that thirst quenchers in plastic bottles are a reliable choice: “Yes, definitely. From a sustainability perspective, a leak-proof, recyclable plastic bottle would be the best solution.” And he advises: “For safety reasons, don't leave the bottle on the training area during training. Instead use the built-in storage trays on equipment or tables.”
Commercially available PET plastic bottles, for example, are suitable for carrying your own drinks - they are robust and can be easily recycled after use. They also require less energy to produce and transport than glass bottles due to their low melting point and low weight.
Ideal for the gym
The plastic bottles are best “filled with sufficient mineralized water or juice spritzers - at least 0.5 liters per hour”, says the lecturer at the German Sports Academy. Fluid deficits of just 2 to 4 percent of body weight impair endurance, strength and cognitive performance, reports the German Nutrition Society (DGE) in its position paper “Fluid management in sport”.
“It is therefore crucial to compensate for the loss of fluids through continuous intake,” says Klinkhammer. In addition to water, valuable electrolytes are also lost. They are essential and must therefore be provided separately. Klinkhammer adds: “In addition, the intake of carbohydrates in liquid form can serve as an energy source.” So, if you want to stay fit, make sure you drink plenty of fluids when working out in the gym, preferably from safe plastic bottles.
[1] https://www.juraforum.de/news/eigene-getraenke-im-fitnessstudio_247305
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Hydration for fitness: The intake of water and electrolytes is essential during training. Ideally from plastic bottles - they are light and won't break, which is why they can also be used in the gym.
Get to your destination safely - with the right bottle
When going on excursions, tours and trips by bike, the need for drinks is often underestimated. According to the Baden-Württemberg regional association of the German Cyclists Association (Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club e.V. or ADFC), the body needs fluids after just half an hour's ride. Preferably from light and sturdy plastic bottles. According to the ADFC, glass bottles pose various dangers when cycling.
There are around 84 million bicycles in Germany[1], i.e. one per inhabitant, and the trend is rising. The bicycle is the second most popular means of transportation after the car[2], and bikes are also popular for vacations: in 2023, 3.6 million people in Germany took a bike trip with at least three overnight stays[3]. For reasons of space, luggage must be well chosen for a trip by bike.
"Refuel" after just 30 minutes, according to the ADFC
Above all, "you should carry enough drinks with you on your ride so that your body's fluid balance can be replenished again and again", advises Tobias Husung, press spokesman for the ADFC Baden-Württemberg regional association. "Hydration is essential on every bike tour". The ADFC spokesman continues: "Cycling is an endurance sport and the body loses large amounts of fluid through sweating. The body should therefore be supplied with fluids from the outside after just half an hour of cycling." On hot summer days, you should even drink up to a quarter of a liter of fluid every 15 to 30 minutes, even if you don't feel thirsty.
It's better to avoid drinks in glass bottles
"Glass bottles create various hazards when riding a bike," says Tobias Husung and explains: "They can break if you fall and cause serious injuries. They can also break when riding on the road and endanger fellow cyclists or other road users with shards." The danger also exists, for example, when cycling to the quarry pond. "Broken glass always leads to accidents," reports Martin Holzhause, spokesman for the German Life Saving Association (DLRG). Or in the forest. Kathrin Klein, a forester from the Schönbuch forest district near Stuttgart, which is part of the Baden-Württemberg state forest, explains: "Of course, wild animals can also injure themselves on the shards, especially if the glass shards have the smell of something edible on them.
Plastic bottles are the means of choice
Tobias Husung recommends: "Plastic bottles are a good alternative for transporting drinks on the bike. They can be easily carried in a drinks holder, in a basket or in a rucksack." You don't have to buy the right bottles for every cup holder; there are now also designs in which standard 1.5-liter PET bottles can be carried safely. Martin Holzhause from the DLRG also believes that plastic bottles are the right drinks packaging for on the go: "Absolutely. Glass bottles in particular pose a risk of cuts."
Those who opt for unbreakable plastic bottles are also making a sustainable choice. This is because plastic bottles save a lot of energy during production and transportation due to their low melting point and low weight compared to glass. And if disposed of properly, used PET bottles are easy to recycle. So with plastic bottles, there's no shortage of thirst and body or broken glass.
[1] https://de.statista.com/statistik//fahrradbestand-in-deutschland/
[2] https://de.statista.com/infografik/9162/nutzung-von-verkehrsmitteln-in-deutschland/
[3] https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/radreisende-in-deutschland/
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Lightweight, unbreakable and recyclable after use: PET bottles are ideal for keeping hydrated on bike tours. Tobias Husung, press spokesman for the Baden-Württemberg regional association of the Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club e.V. (ADFC), agrees: “Plastic bottles are a good alternative for transporting drinks on your bike.”
How bottle deposit systems work when traveling
If you are out and about and like to use plastic bottles, you don't have to go without them. Drinks in PET bottles are available all over the world and can be disposed of almost anywhere in public collection containers or handed in at retailers. In addition, many countries have their own deposit systems or are currently introducing them, such as Austria from 2025. Plastic is also fantastic: in Rome and Istanbul, you can even exchange used plastic bottles for bus and train tickets. Even dog food. Meanwhile, France is emphasizing entertainment.
They hardly weigh anything and don't break: PET bottles are the ideal travel companions. Whether traveling at home or abroad – plastic bottles are available worldwide, easy to transport, easy to store and easy to dispose of locally. Returning plastic bottles is not just about sustainability, but also about creativity.
Garbage can and deposit system
Most vacation destinations have containers where travelers can dispose of their used plastic bottles in an environmentally friendly way. In addition, many regions have a deposit system like the German system, such as Scandinavia, the Netherlands or Croatia. Even in the distant South Sea paradise of Hawaii. There, a beverage deposit of 5 cents is charged for each plastic bottle, which is returned to the so-called Beverage Container Redemption Centers, i.e., the regional collection points. Austria will introduce a deposit of 0.25 euros per single-use plastic bottle from 2025. Other countries, such as Italy and Spain, do not yet have a deposit system, nor do Türkiye or France.
Environmentally friendly and fun
But when it comes to disposing of plastic bottles, these countries are extremely creative. In French supermarkets, for example, there are machines called "B:Bot"[1]. The elegantly designed machines, pronounced "Bibotte", take plastic bottles and immediately shred them into sparkling, recyclable mini-shreds. The highlight of this process shows why “plastic is fantastic”: the entire process takes place behind a glass pane through which the spectacle can be observed, which is particularly fascinating for children. On top of this, there is a reward for the plastic flakes handed in, which the retailer determines himself, for example in the form of vouchers or raffle tickets.
Tickets and dog food
In Rome, the "+Ricicli +Viaggi"[2] project allows used plastic bottles to be exchanged for bus and train tickets. The initiative received an award for innovation in politics from the Vienna-based organization "The Innovation in Politics Institute"[3] in 2022. The same machines can also be found in Istanbul, Türkiye, and the metropolis also has another waste disposal attraction: An Automat that does not give out a deposit voucher when plastic bottles are returned, but dry dog food, specially designed for the city's stray dogs[4].
Valuable and reusable
Finally, anyone traveling to poorer regions of the world could donate their empty plastic bottles to the locals. For example, collectors in rural parts of Mexico can hand in PET bottles to the recycling companies IMER and PLANETA for a fee. The Plastic Bank also exchanges return bottles for money or services. In Nigeria, there is even a school that accepts used plastic bottles as school fees from parents.
Deposit systems and creative return options help highlight the material value of plastic bottles and encourage proper disposal. And they are easy to recycle - either thermally into fresh energy or materially into new products. However, sustainability also starts at the beginning of their life journey: Even during production and transportation, plastic bottles save a lot of energy and emissions compared to glass containers or metal cans due to their low melting point and low weight.
[1] https://b-bot.com
[2] https://www.atac.roma.it/en/tickets-and-passes/ricicli-viaggi
[3] https://innovationinpolitics.eu/showroom/project/ricicli-viaggi-the-more-you-recycle-the-more-you-travel/
[4] http://pugedon.com
Image Source: Pugedon Arge A.Ş
Image Caption: Istanbul, innovative systems do not return a normal deposit when PET bottles are returned, but food for street dogs.
How PET bottles help in emergencies
In a crisis, providing clean drinking water is a top priority. Plastic bottles are the means of choice here and provide help quickly. This is because the water in the lightweight and unbreakable plastic packaging can be transported directly to the place of use.
Plastic bottles demonstrate their value in everyday life and additionally in extreme situations: they allow people to be supplied with drinking water quickly - saving lives when supply structures have collapsed.
Ideal for mobile use
Natural disasters and conflicts dominate world events. Crises require immediate action, especially when it comes to water. Until drinking water treatment systems are installed on site, plastic bottles can be used to ease initial hardship. In addition, the hygienic and practical PET bottles are an essential element in decentralized water distribution - especially for remote areas and those that are difficult to access.
"Bottled drinking water is what makes the supply of clean, safe water possible in the first place in many regions and especially in crisis areas. In this way, drinking water can be stored, transported and made avail-able quickly when needed. PET bottles are also a suitable concept: they are lightweight, safe, unbreakable and recyclable," says Dr. Sieglinde Stähle, Scientific Director at the German Food Association. Plastic bottles are also suitable for supplying refugees who can only carry a small amount of weight with them.
The demand is high: in 2022, over 340 million people worldwide were in humanitarian need[1], 108.4 million refugees[2], there were 421 natural disasters[3] and a total of 363 conflicts[4]. Such as the war in Ukraine, which in the same year asked other countries for the delivery of drinking water and PET bottles to supply its population[5]. To prepare for emergencies, the German Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance advises to keep two liters of liquid per person per day[6], which corresponds to 60 liters for a 10-day supply of drinks for a three-person household - which can be easily stored in 40 lightweight and stable 1.5-liter PET bottles and quickly and safely relocated if necessary.
Social plastic alleviates poverty
While PET bottles prove to be an essential part of the supply chain in acute crises, disadvantaged regions in developing and emerging countries can also benefit from plastic. In addition to the material benefits, the low production costs of plastic bottles make them accessible to socially disadvantaged parts of the population.
Plastic waste is also being discovered as a source of recyclable materials, offering income prospects. For example, in Mexico, where a recycling company with the involvement of a packaging manufacturer accepts used PET bottles from collectors for a fee - using its own trucks, among other things, to make up for the lack of infrastructure. A project that brings together waste disposal and poverty reduction. The same approach is pursued by plasticbank[7], where collected plastic waste can be exchanged for cash, everyday goods or services such as internet access and cell phone charging.
Drinking water is essential. According to the UN World Water Report 2022, 2.2 billion people do not have a direct supply of safe drinking water[8]. And UNICEF states: In conflicts and crises, children are twice as likely to lack access to water[9]. Plastic bottles can make an important contribution here.
[1] https://www.rescue.org/de/artikel/die-zehn-schlimmsten-humanitaeren-krisen-2023
[2] https://www.uno-fluechtlingshilfe.de/informieren/fluechtlingszahlen
[3] https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/anzahl-der-weltweiten-naturkatastrophen/
[4] https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/entwicklung-der-anzahl-von-konflikten-weltweit/
[5] https://brauer-bund.de/pressemitteilungen/ukraine-bittet-um-trinkwasser-und-pet-flaschen/
[6] https://www.bbk.bund.de/DE/Warnung-Vorsorge/Vorsorge/Bevorraten/bevorraten_node.html
[7] https://plasticbank.com/
[8] https://www.unesco.de/kultur-und-natur/wasser-und-ozeane/weltwasserbericht-2022-grundwasser
[9] https://www.unicef.de/informieren/aktuelles/weltwassertag-2023-zehn-fakten-ueber-wasser/
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Conflicts, natural disasters and displacement bring humanitarian hardship to people. “Bottled drinking water is what makes the supply of clean, safe water possible in the first place in many regions and especially in crisis areas,” says Dr. Sieglinde Stähle, Scientific Director at the German Food Association.
About rivers and fishing boats
A lot of garbage is floating in our oceans. 75 percent of it is made of plastic and has two causes: rivers, 10 of them to be precise, carry plastic waste from the land into the oceans - a finding that can be used to develop targeted countermeasures. The majority of the plastic, on the other hand, originates from lost fishing gear from commercial fishing, which has so far barely entered the public consciousness. It is also much more difficult to take action here.
Professional fishing - the main source of plastic waste
Fishermen also appreciate the positive properties of plastic, especially the ease of handling and the greater durability and reliability compared to natural materials. Around 4.6 million boats go fishing in the oceans every day. This also leads to material losses: The WWF estimates that 40 % - 50 %[1] of plastic waste comes from lost fishing gear alone - ropes, lines, buoys, baskets, buckets, fishing lines and nets. Over 1 million tons are added every year.
The phenomenon was discovered during investigations into the world's largest garbage patch in the North Pacific between Hawaii and California - the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP). The surprising result: the majority of the plastic waste, around 70%, was actually fishing equipment, 46% of which was ghost nets, weighing around 705,000 tons[2].
Current studies not only confirm the findings but also increase the figures: according to an analysis by the environmental initiative “The Ocean Cleanup”[3], known as the marine debris catcher, between 75 and 86 percent of plastic waste in the GPGP comes from deep-sea fishing.
How can this happen? Equipment goes overboard during fishing operations, storms or accidents. Set nets and trawls also break off and drift through the oceans abandoned as “ghost nets” or get caught on the bottom, on rocks, reefs or wrecks.
Recovering ghost nets is time-consuming, as they first need to be tracked down; sonar has recently been used for this purpose, and there are also plans to equip nets with GPS trackers. Lifting them is manual work, the nets are often stuck and need to be painstakingly freed. Their robust material mix requires intensive recycling. Countries, research institutions, environmental organizations and fishing companies are now aware of the importance of the issue and are already initiating countermeasures.
Rivers are effective transportation routes - also for waste
The second reason for plastic waste ending up in the oceans can also be precisely identified: Studies show that the global supply of waste from land to the oceans can be narrowed down to the 10 largest waterways from Asia and Africa. These alone flush around 12 million tons of plastic into the maritime waters every year. The Yangtze River leads the way, followed by the Indus, Huangho, Nile, Ganges, Niger and Mekong. A consequence of the rapid economic growth in these regions, the development of waste disposal has still not been able to keep pace with this dynamic.
In the meantime, active investments are being made here - for the expansion of orderly disposal and effective recycling of waste. For example, its incineration for energy generation in appropriately equipped power plants. This is a way of dealing with waste, which also improves marine pollution.
Another approach also promises to help: as the global transfer of waste to water is mainly concentrated in the aforementioned 10 rivers, this opens up the possibility of taking local measures to combat it. As “The Ocean Cleanup” is already doing here: the organization has developed a new interceptor system for use in rivers. The “Ocean Cleanup Interceptor”, a solar-powered, 24-metre-long boat with a screening device and container, is designed to filter up to 50 million tons of waste per day from flowing waters - before it reaches the oceans. A commitment that could set a precedent.
What's the matter:
A study by ocean experts led by Dr. Britta Denise Hardesty, head of research at the Australian scientific institution CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, has brought clear facts to light. For this purpose, 451 fishing companies in 7 countries were surveyed[4]:
Over 2% of all fishing gear is lost every year.
There are now 25 million fish traps (fishing cages) and 14 billion baited hooks in the oceans.
In addition:
2,963 square kilometers of gillnets - larger in area than the German Saarland (2,570 square kilometers),
75,049 square kilometers of ring wall nets - more than the largest German federal state, Bavaria (70,550 square kilometers),
218 square kilometers of trawl nets - the equivalent of around 30,000 soccer pitches,
739,538 kilometers of longlines and mainlines - enough to wrap around the world 17 times - and 11.5 million branch lines.
What is done:
Measures to prevent plastic waste from fishing gear:
The “International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships”, known as MARPOL, prohibits the discharge of pollutants into the sea.
The EU Fisheries Control Regulation prohibits the dumping of fishing gear at sea. Lost nets must be reported to the authorities.
With the “Marelitt Baltic” project, fishing communities, research institutes & environmental associations from Sweden, Estonia, Poland & Germany are investigating how plastic nets can be recovered & recycled. Organizations and projects such as “AegeanRebreath”, “GhostNets Australia”, “Ghost Diving” and “Healthy Seas” are committed to the recovery, disposal and recycling of ghost nets.
[1] Veröffentlichung WWF Themen & Projekte Geisternetze 17.08.2018
[2] Scientific Reports: Evidence that the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is rapidly accumulating plastic 2018, L. Lebreton
[3] Study „The Ocean Cleanup“ (Müllsammler System 001/B 2019), „Der Spiegel“ 05.09.2022
[4] Veröffentlichung Science Advances, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Publikation „GEO“ 14.10.2022
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: Plastic also has a firm place in commercial fishing: it is superior to other materials in terms of weight, handling and durability.
With PET: enjoying wine has never been so lightweight
Plastic bottles are best known for mineral water and juices because they are light and practical. The world's leading packaging specialist Alpla is now bringing this advantage to the supermarket shelves - for wine. The new 0.75-liter PET bottle weighs just 50 grams and looks like a traditional glass wine bottle. But it's not just the light weight and elegant appearance that make the PET bottle so interesting. It doesn't break, saves CO2 and can be completely recycled.
Until now, plastic bottles of this kind have rarely been found in everyday life, except for “the small PET wine bottles on airplanes to save weight,” says Daniel Lehner, Global Sales Director Food & Beverage at Alpla. It is properties like these that the packaging manufacturer is now making accessible to a broad market with the PET wine bottle - in a classically elegant look.
No volcano required and 45 Eifel towers lighter
The innovative plastic bottle makes a huge difference: the PET version weighs just a tenth of the 500-gram glass wine bottle. If it is used, the packaging weight is reduced by 90 percent. With around one billion wine bottles produced in Germany every year[1], this means that, in purely mathematical terms, there would be around 450,000 tons less on the scales, i.e. around 11,250 fully loaded trucks[2] or around 45 Eiffel Towers[3]. The lower weight brings immense savings in transportation and storage. In addition, the bottle does not break.
Furthermore, glass requires a temperature of around 1,600 degrees Celsius during production - more heat than in a volcano, including high energy consumption and emissions. PET bottles, on the other hand, can be shaped at around 260 degrees Celsius, which reduces the amount of heat required and the release of greenhouse gases.
Only half the CO2 and easy handling
The PET bottle scores particularly well in terms of sustainability, says Daniel Lehner from Alpla: “The bottle is fully recyclable and can be produced with up to 100 percent recycled material (rPET).” He calculates what this means: “Depending on the amount of recycled material used, the CO2 savings can be up to 50 percent.” He adds: “Even without using recyclate, the PET bottle already reduces CO2 by 38% compared to the glass bottle.” This significantly improves the carbon footprint.
In addition to its traditional look, the PET bottle has a metal cap, as is familiar from glass bottles. The new plastic bottle is particularly interesting for ecologically-minded buyers and consumers who want to consume the wine immediately after purchase. In retail, the plastic bottle is particularly suitable for quick turnover. The reason being the full aroma of the wine is guaranteed to be retained for around six months, after which there may be slight degradation effects due to oxygen migration. Packaging manufacturer Alpla has deliberately dispensed with the use of a barrier layer due to the ecological added value of the bottle's complete recyclability.
The PET wine bottle offers a modern enjoyment experience, in line with both sustainable and urban-mobile lifestyles. In addition, the lightweight and shatterproof beverage packaging makes it possible to enjoy wine in places where glass bottles are impractical or prohibited for weight or safety reasons, such as on the beach or at events.
[1] destatis.de
[2] Reference size: 40-ton truck
[3] https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eiffelturm
Image Source: ALPLA
Image Caption: The new 0.75-liter PET bottle from Alpla weighs just 50 grams - and has the look of a classic glass wine bottle.
Plastic in space
Space, the final frontier… and impossible to fathom without plastic, say experts. As controversial as the material is discussed on Earth, it is indispensable for journeys into the universe - whether for the meals of astronauts or in the construction of satellites and rockets.
Our relationship with plastic is ambivalent. We use plastic every day, but hardly appreciate it. Such as PET bottles: they are practical to use, but are usually seen as mere disposable products - and annoying when they turn up as waste. In order to recognize the true significance of something, it is often worth looking beyond the horizon - in the case of plastic, even to the stars. The reason: “Without plastic, nothing works in space travel,” says Alexander Ihle, Structural Engineer at the European Space Agency (ESA) and responsible for Earth observation missions.
How plastic is conquering space
It may sound unusual at first, but what already characterizes plastic packaging on earth is also being used by the space industry - it is increasingly relying on the characteristic combination of lightness and stability. This applies both to the construction of spaceships and to the meals of space travelers. Their food is freeze-dried and dehydrated in plastic bags with a straw attached.
And just like here on Earth, the plastic packaging provides protection and preservation for a wide range of food and drinks in space. “You only have to look at what the first astronauts had at their disposal and what they now get in terms of food on the ISS space station. Neil Armstrong would probably never have dreamed that such a range would be possible. Plastic plays a very important role here,” says Hendrik Weihs, engineer and head of the Space Department at the German Aerospace Center (DLR).
Stability and efficiency in space
However, plastic packaging is not only indispensable for feeding astronauts; the material is also playing an increasingly important role in the construction of rockets. “It starts with adhesives,” explains ESA structural engineer Alexander Ihle, ”and continues with plastic films. These are needed in space systems as sun protection, for example.” This also applies to the construction of special elements, as Alexander Ihle explains: “We use fiber-reinforced plastics to manufacture components that are both lightweight and durable, as well as having a high temperature resistance.”
Nicole Thalhofer, Head of Space Travel at the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI), emphasizes: “The use of plastics and synthetic materials in space has significantly increased the efficiency of space missions.” She cites an example: “ArianeGroup is currently working on ICARUS, an innovative rocket upper stage made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP).” She also points out other areas of application: “Plastics can be found not only in structural components, but also in purely functional components such as insulation and seals.”
Future material for the cosmos and earth
High-performance plastics, which are additionally equipped with thermal protection systems for the return from space, are therefore playing an increasingly important role in rocket construction alongside metal. And, of course, they are also a sign of sustainability. DLR department head Hendrik Weihs: “We are seeing that the classic rocket is slowly making its way towards a reusable space transportation system.”
BDLI space specialist Nicole Thalhofer: “The developments in the field of plastics in space travel also have important implications for applications on Earth. In the case of CARUS, ArianeGroup is researching how to develop and build CFRP tanks for cryogenic liquids with temperatures as low as minus 250 degrees Celsius.” This would be relevant for the transportation and storage of hydrogen, for example.
Recyclable spaceships from the 3D printer
“In my department, we are currently looking at bio-based materials,” explains Hendrik Weihs from DLR and says: ”A lot is also possible with plastics. You always have to look at the overall scenario, whether for rockets or satellites.”
Alexander Ihle adds: “The trend in space travel is clearly moving towards fiber-reinforced plastics. The material has numerous advantages and you can do a lot with it. And it can also be used in an environmentally friendly way. I think the example of the PET bottle is a good one here.” This is aimed at the recycling property. After all, the use of plastics in space travel is also characterized by sustainability and the circular economy. As PET bottles show - they are highly recyclable, even 100 percent in the bottle-to-bottle process.
It is possible that the recyclable and bio-based plastic rockets of the future will come entirely from 3D printers. Inflatable space habitats made from plastic fibers are already being tested today[1]. Eventually, space habitats will also be built from recycled plastic bottles. Innovations in the field of plastic packaging could certainly serve as a source of inspiration here. We don't know whether the most famous Vulcan in film history would have said “Plastic is fantastic”, but his “fascinating” certainly rings a bell.
[1] https://www.sierraspace.com/commercial-space-stations/life-space-habitat/
Image Source: ESA/NASA - T. Pesquet
Image Caption: Eating and drinking in the stars: The astronauts' food is provided in special plastic packaging that protects it from space conditions, prevents crumbs from escaping and enables it to be prepared safely.
Plastic waste: material for art
Used plastic bottles are not waste, but a valuable resource. They can be reprocessed in a variety of ways and transformed into new products or fresh energy. And into art. This is exactly what Veronika Richterová does. The Czech artist creates fascinating sculptures made out of old PET bottles.
Plastic has inspired artists from the very beginning. The reason: plastic meets almost all technical and aesthetic requirements. It is a universal material and is considered modern and progressive. This not only applies to new products: art has long since discovered used plastic as a valuable material.
Plastic bottles become sculptures
“PET bottles have become an important part of my life,” says Czech artist Veronika Richterová, known for her work in the field of “plastic bottle art”, or PET-ART for short. She has been raving about the material for 20 years: “I appreciate its lightness and flexibility, its translucency and its bright colors.” And emphasizes: “Its longevity and unbreakability are a great advantage, especially when my sculptures are shown at various exhibitions. And there have already been more than fifty of them.” She has shown PET-ART chandeliers as well as life-size representations of, animals and plants in the Czech Republic, Germany, Great Britain, France, Italy, Japan, Australia and the USA. These include a crocodile made from 360 PET bottles, which she presented for the first time in the Fata Morgana greenhouse of the Botanical Garden in Prague.
At the same time, she and her husband are building a museum for PET bottles; their collection “comprises around 5,000 exhibits from 139 countries”. The number continues to grow, as friends are now joining in her passion for plastic. She describes her intention: “My main motive was to transform something that is seen as waste into something more valuable that can have a lasting value.”
Significance beyond the realm of art
The artist is not alone in this approach. The global presence of plastic waste and its ability to be recycled is causing a rethink: what was once a disposable product has become a source of valuable material. A creative and trendy one as well.
PET also promotes a sustainable circular economy, keyword: bottle-to-bottle processes. Establishing collection points and systems in rural areas of developing and emerging countries is central to being able to fully exploit the recycling potential of used plastic. This aspect needs to be taken into account when developing new material and thermal processing technologies. As practiced, for example, by the recycling companies IMER and PLANETA in Mexico: By accepting used plastic bottles for a fee, they combine environmental protection and poverty reduction. Creativity and innovation are therefore not limited to the procurement and processing of new materials, but are revealed above all in the productive use of what was previously considered waste. Art often precedes such developments.
Image Source: Michal Cihlář
Image Caption: Elegance from waste: Czech artist Veronika Richterová creates exhibits such as this chandelier (Green Chandelier for Café Savoy, Prague, 2023) from used PET bottles.
