Several factors can affect your plastic products development process. While some people will focus on the final product’s appearance, others will make choices depending on the product’s specific performance characteristics.
However, recently these decisions have been made depending on the material composition and its effect on the environment. This is the case for most plastic products, and therefore, manufacturers and top brands are devoted to creating products that solve public waste concerns and promote reuse campaigns. Some of the essential considerations for plastic machining in 2022 include:
1) The environmental impact of Product Lifecycle
Climate change has been a significant concern for years now, and as it impacts modern households, most consumers focus on reducing their carbon footprint and addressing waste reduction. Therefore, you need to consider the durability and the effect the product can bring to the environment.
While the government regulates how much energy manufacturers use in developing their products, how they are used, and disposal methods, consumers are also looking to shop for products that meet these regulations.
Plastic is light and durable material that reduces the weight of the products, translating to reduced carbon emissions and energy consumption levels. Using plastics in the transportation sector helps create safer, lighter, and more efficient modes of transport. Plastics are also extensively used in manufacturing airbags and seat belts used in trains, vehicles, and planes.
Plastic products are also ideal for smaller items. According to a recent study, plastic pot packaging produces 25% lesser greenhouse gasses than a glass baby food jar. This means that using alternative materials may undermine carbon footprint reduction efforts.
Instead of focusing on a product’s impact on the environment at the end of its life cycle, leading manufacturers and brands fighting climate change should consider its impact on the environment over its whole life cycle. Comparing these results to alternative materials will allow them to make more informed decisions.
2) Durability and Strength Requirements
It’s advisable to focus on how the customer will use the product to determine how to develop it. Whether it’s a kitchen gadget or a clothing item, every product has its advantages and disadvantages based on the buyer’s taste and functionality. For instance, parents shopping for bowls will need to purchase child-proof products fit for regular use, occasional drop and cleaning,
Plastic can come in handy if you need durable and robust materials for different applications. There are 50 varieties of plastic, solid and durable enough to resist damage. The stronger and long-lasting the product is, the more it becomes resistant to damage and doesn’t end up as waste faster.
Facts About Plastic’s Sustainability to Consider in 2022:
- Plastic pots produce 25% less greenhouse gasses than glass baby food jars.
- Steel is 12 times weaker than plastic, making plastic ideal for developing light and fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Plastic packaging increases the shelf life of food, thus minimizing food waste in landfills and reducing carbon emissions.
Bottom Line
Plastic is one of the most versatile materials with multiple benefits to modern life. Consumers’ perception of plastics needs to change to reduce plastic waste and facilitate a circular economy. It’s also necessary to focus on the life cycle and design to enhance your product development projects.
