PLFs: read our summary and technical reports

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These reports represent the starting point for the PLFs revolution. This research spells out the sustainability problems that blight these valuable and versatile materials. On the back of this, we have partnered with industry leaders and developed our roadmap, which will transform PLFs and make them more sustainable by 2040. Read the reports that sparked a revolution.

Our reports

 

This summary report was 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.

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:

1. Establish new innovation networks that promote collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers.

2. Identify and champion key research themes and priorities that will support businesses and researchers to tackle PLF innovation challenges.

3. Explore the emerging need for a consistent approach to PLF biodegradability and stability testing.

4. Investigate opportunities for chemistry-based innovations in developing circular economy solutions in key markets such as paints, adhesives and sealants.

5. 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 convened a task force that included 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.

Our task force provided key insights to shape the development of our sustainable PLFs roadmap.

Learn more about PLFs

Is your business part of the supply chain?

If you would like to get involved with our work to make PLFs more sustainable, you may be interested in our Synergy programme, which brings together businesses from different industries to tackle complex chemistry topics.