The COVID-19 pandemic has reemphasized the indispensable role of plastics in our everyday life. Amongst others, medical grade masks, gloves, PPE, various medical equipment along with several packaging applications have proved to be a life-saver and played a vital role in protecting the health and safety of frontline workers as well as civilians during the pandemic. However, the manner in which their disposal is handled poses a serious environmental challenge. This is creating an urgent need to change our mindset from the existing linear take-make-dispose model and shift towards a closed loop, reusability and recycling focused model. This requires a systemic transformation where all waste is viewed as a valuable resource and its value is captured within the economy. This can be achieved on the back of innovation through collaboration along the value chain, which was brought to the limelight during the pandemic.
On the flipside, an increased focus on recycling, is both a growing threat and an opportunity to the virgin polymers industry. This is making plastic producers, refiners, waste management companies to innovate new business models to develop a global economy where plastics are never wasted. Although collection and sorting remain the most challenging barriers to achieve a circular economy, advancements in advanced recycling technologies are aiming to ease the process.
“I would like to thank GPCA for the excellent organization of the event, and in specific – the level of seniority we have in the room, which both showcases and reflects the important role that GPCA plays on a global level in driving industry growth and sustainability.”
Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh
EVP – Petrochemicals
SABIC
“I think the theme of this year’s PlastiCon is very important. It is an eye opener even for us as producers, and brings a lot of attention to what would happen in the world regarding plastic waste.”
Jamal Malaikah
President and CEO
NATPET
“The whole regional industry under one roof sharing, listening and growing together – this is something unique that makes the conference noteworthy.”
Dr. Mohammad Al Mulla
Managing Director and CEO
QAPCO
“The 8th GPCA PlastiCon has been an enlightening experience, offering a great platform to share best practice, lessons learned and contacts to overcome future challenges.”
Abdullah Mohammed Ramadan
Elastomer and Tire Technology Engineer
High Institute for Elastomer Industries
“PlastiCon is a high quality conference with exceptional speakers who bring thought challenging presentations and ideas for everyone who attends.”
Dr. Raed Al-Zubi
International President
SPE
“PlastiCon serves as a rock for GCC plastic converters in the waves of turbulent times. In addition, the GPCA Plastic Excellence Awards show the high level of inspiration, idea generation and scientific background for plastic processing in the region. For the audience both are always a source of information and inspiration combined with an excellent opportunity to network with industry experts.”
Ulrich Reiners
MD
Executive Packaging
