Two key efforts in achieving sustainability are to recycle and to choose renewable options when possible, both of which can be accomplished with plastic injection molding. While this process is, by its nature, a low-waste manufacturing technique, careful material selection can further limit the environmental footprint of producing plastic components and products.

Thermoplastics, the most commonly used type of material for injection molding, can technically be recycled infinitely, though additives in some formulations can reduce quality and the number of times recycling is feasible. In addition to recycling and reuse of traditional plastics, newer compostable, degradable, and biodegradable plastic materials are expanding material options. These innovative plastics decompose into organic components such as water, carbon dioxide, and biomass which are easily recycled. Compostable plastics can be especially environmentally friendly as they leave no toxic chemicals behind. 

Using plastics made completely or partially from renewable components promotes sustainability and limits reliance on fossil fuels used to make traditional plastic resins. 

Bioplastics such as PHA and PLA, made from sugars, grains, and oils, can perform as well as their traditionally formulated counterparts.

Bio-filled plastics replace traditional fillers such as carbon, glass, or metal with bio-friendly materials such as cotton fiber or ground hulls or shells from various plants. 

At Bennett Plastics, we support sustainability efforts across our manufacturing processes and even throughout our entire facility. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you bring more sustainable products to life with injection molding, or about any of the full range of services we offer.