Environmentalist’s view

Brief details are given of two proposed resolutions on the subject of pyrolysis of waste plastic. The first states that pyrolysis and other methods of chemically reprocessing post-consumer plastics is a suitable way of diverting waste from landfills. The second resolution, supported by environmentalists, states that pyrolysis only recovers plastic s energy value, and should not be viewed as recycling. 

Harmsen [4] points out that there are several views with which one can look at sustainable development. One view is the theocratic view, prominent in Judeo-Christian religion in which the Creator stands central and needs to be honored and served by man. Nature is trusted to man, who should take care of it, while Technology should help him and simplify his task. Man assumes this responsibility, much as a steward of property and capital does. This is the same role as the one many responsible company directors play The interest of the company should be served and is central in one s performance and behavior toward the company. This view is to some extent expressed in a moving way by the text on the statue of the Japanese-American environmentalist Yasui Minoru in Denver s Sakura Center "We are all put on this earth to leave it a better place for our having been there."... 

EPI supports the view that new legislation is needed to clarify the present situation legally, to protect the environment, and to insure a level playing field for all participants. This is in industry s interest too, because it will streamline the review process. For both environmentalists and businessmen, there is a need to straighten out this convoluted framework in order to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy and litigation in the years ahead. 

---