Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) is a part of the U.S. Plastics Pact, which has entered an ambitious phase with its enhanced strategic plan, Roadmap 2.0. This initiative aims to accelerate the creation of a circular economy where plastic packaging is reused, recycled, composted, and kept within the economy instead of becoming waste.
The nationwide plan features five targets:
The Pact’s focus on transforming the use of plastics in packaging complements the City of Austin’s zero waste goal. With a shared focus on innovation and sustainability, Austin is one of the Pact’s founding activators, which include over 160 companies, nonprofits, research groups, and governments across the United States.
"The more stakeholders get actively involved, the more successful the coalition will be in driving national strategy and curbing the plastic waste crisis," ARR stated. "This is why ARR is encouraging Central Texas businesses and stakeholders to learn more and add their strength to the U.S. Plastics Pact. By working together, we can create a future where plastics are no longer a waste but a valuable resource."
Austin is leading by example by reviewing plastic waste within city facilities. Among other internal strategies, the City continues to make progress studying the purchase and use of single-use plastics, related financial procedures, and employee education and training.
Learn more about plastic waste reduction in Austin.