PET Helps Disasters and the Economy

PET Plastic is Essential During Adverse Events

PET plastic (look for the #1 on the container) is accessible, affordable, and lightweight, making it the material of choice for packaging essentials like water, medical devices, and food.

Because PET containers are lightweight, durable, shatterproof, and fully recyclable, they are widely used to package bottled water and essential supplies during disasters or when drinking water systems are disrupted.

During events such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, or infrastructure failures, PET-packaged bottled water can be quickly transported to affected communities.

And because PET is approved as safe for food and beverage use by regulators worldwide, does not contain BPA or phthalates, and is one of the most studied and regulated packaging materials for safety, healthcare workers depend on PET’s unique properties for lifesaving applications.

PET Plastic Supports our Economy

PET plastic plays an important role in manufacturing, packaging, and recycling systems across North America.

The plastics industry generates more than a million jobs in the US, many of them connected to PET production, packaging, and recycling.

PET packaging also delivers practical economic benefits:

• Lightweight bottles reduce transportation costs
• Durable containers reduce breakage and product loss
• Efficient manufacturing keeps products affordable for consumers

For many communities, PET manufacturing and recycling facilities provide stable jobs and local investment, often serving as a cornerstone of those communities.