A high-profile U.S. plastic recycling program, hailed as a solution to the waste crisis, is facing intense scrutiny after a CBS News and Inside Climate News investigation exposed flaws in its technology. The initiative, backed by a major corporation, claims to convert plastic waste into reusable materials using chemical recycling. However, experts found that the process produces low yields and high emissions, casting doubt on its scalability. “This smells like greenwashing,” said environmental chemist Dr. Lisa Tran, citing data showing only 5% of processed plastic is reused.
The company plans to expand to cities like Houston and Chicago, prompting alarm from activists who fear it diverts attention from reducing plastic production. On X, #StopGreenwashing trends as users share reports of landfills overflowing with “recycled” waste. “We’re being sold a false fix,” posted by X user. Supporters argue the technology needs time to mature, pointing to pilot successes in small-scale plants.
The debate highlights broader climate challenges, with global plastic production projected to double by 2040. The EPA has called for stricter regulations, while grassroots groups push for bans on single-use plastics. Nuzpost investigates this controversy, asking whether recycling innovations can deliver or if they’re masking a deeper environmental crisis.