PLFs: read our summary and technical reports

Our reports

This summary report is an important first step in addressing the sustainability challenges of PLFs and the opportunities to maximise their economic value.

Download the technical report for a deeper dive into the landscape view of the global PLFs market,
sustainability issues and
recommendations for change.

This first report brought together stakeholders, including academics, SMEs, large companies, government agencies and NGOs, to identify opportunities for collaboration.

Who should read our reports?

Industry

Producers and manufacturers of polymers; those who create polymer-using products; and those who are developing emerging technologies and solutions.

Academia

Researchers who are working on fundamental and applied research in this area.

Governments and policymakers

Those responsible for policies and regulation that support and enable researchers and businesses to tackle the problem.

Funding bodies

Organisations interested in funding current and future research and collaborative projects, backed by industry, to develop sustainable solutions for PLFs.

Waste management organisations

Organisations that collect, recycle and dispose of PLF products.

What our president has to say

These are just first steps – solutions will only come through concerted action, with support from academia, industry and civil society. Together, we must develop innovative new technologies and apply circular economy principles to collect PLFs, reuse them as new products and raw materials, and offer further bio-based and biodegradable alternatives. Together, we have a fantastic opportunity to make real and lasting change.

Opportunities for action

Chemistry plays a fundamental role in developing sustainable solutions. Our report identifies five key opportunities to galvanise industry, academia, policymakers and funders into action:

Establish new innovation networks that promote collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers.
Identify and champion key research themes and priorities that will support businesses and researchers to tackle PLF innovation challenges.
Explore the emerging need for a consistent approach to PLF biodegradability and stability testing.
Investigate opportunities for chemistry-based innovations in developing circular economy solutions in key markets such as paints, adhesives and sealants.
Engage with key stakeholders to ensure that a science and evidence-based approach is used to develop future policy for PLFs.

To take forward these opportunities, we have convened a task force that includes representatives from Afton Chemical, BASF, Croda, Crown Paints, Dow, Northumbrian Water, Scott Bader, Unilever, United Utilities and Walgreens Boots Alliance, to establish clear industry leadership across the markets that PLFs are so integral to. Meet the task force here.