Facts about Plastics
The word Plastics comes from the Greek word "plastikos", which means easily moulded.
Plastics are made by linking together the atoms of elements such as crude oil, gas and coal, and forming long chains of molecules called polymers.The polymers are formed into products by different processing methods. The most common methods involve heating the plastic until soft, shaping in a mould, and cooling until the plastic is solid and set in its new shape.
Plastics come in all shapes and sizes and are used to make may everyday items you probably take for granted; like bank notes and credit cards, computer parts, drink bottles and coolers car parts and interiors, pipes for buildings, food packaging, toys, medical and surgical equipment.
Look here for more facts and information about plastics.
Plastics - Materials for our Future
Plastics are one of the most resource efficient and versatile materials available to society. Plastics make a significant contribution to the goals of sustainable development. Look here for 'Plastics - Materials for our Future'.
Plastics Identification Code
The Plastics Identification Code continues to be one of the most successful and enduring Product Stewardship programs run by industry. The simple 1 to 7 numbering system identifies the resin composition of plastic products intended for recycling.
Building with Plastics
The building and construction sector is the second largest consumer of plastics after packaging in Australia. Plastics continue to replace traditional materials in many types of applications, such as siding, decking, decorative trim and bathroom fixtures.
Automotive Plastics
Plastics continue to provide a range of form, function, energy and lifestyle benefits for all types of automotive applications.
Plastic Bags
PACIA is committed to the elimination of plastics bags in the litter stream. Plastics are better off recycled - they are just too valuable to waste.
Centenary of Plastics
FACT: Plastics Saved the Elephant. The elephant was once in danger of extinction because its tusks supplied ivory for billiard balls, piano keys,umbrella and many other products. The arrival of acrylic and other plastics provided substitutes. Learn more.
Featured Article
PACIA National Plastics Recycling Survey
The 2011 PACIA National Plastics Recycling Survey is now available. PACIA commissions yearly independent national surveys on consumption, use and recovery of plastics in Australia, as part of our strong commitment to action by industry...more...more
Annual Reports
The 2010-11 Annual Report is now available. Every year PACIA produces an Annual Report that showcases the past years achievements in Industry Advocacy, Sustainability Leadership and Member Services, supported by our Strategic Partnerships. ...more
Business Toolkit
Your members only one-stop-shop. The Business Toolkit provides the critical information and resources that you need on a day to day basis. ...more
Media Centre
Industry welcomes chemical security consultation process
The Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association and the Australian chemistry industry has welcomed the release by Federal Attorney-General Nicola Roxon of a Consultation Regulation Impact Statement on Chemical Security...more...more
COAG hotspot productivity reforms gone cold
The Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association (PACIA) has expressed concern at the lack of meaningful progress relating to chemicals and plastics regulatory reform under the National Partnership Agreement to Deliver a Seamless National Economy...more...more
Ten years of data shows growth and opportunity for Australian plastics recycling
The plastics and chemicals industry has welcomed the release of the tenth consecutive national survey showing record high recovery and recycling for plastics in Australia....more
