Greenpeace has published yet another attack on the companies that are actually trying to deliver real solutions to plastic waste while offering no credible alternatives of their own.
INEOS has not seen this report, and no meaningful attempt has been made to engage us in its preparation. We were sent a list of allegations at the last minute and asked to comment without context.
INEOS produces materials that society relies on every day, from clean drinking water pipes and medical equipment to insulation, lightweight cars, and wind turbine blades. (Even the safety harnesses used by Greenpeace protestors to carry out their PR stunt in Scotland this weekend). These aren’t luxury items they’re essential to modern life and to lowering emissions. In most cases, plastic is the most sustainable option available, confirmed by independent studies (see note to editors below), which is why it has so many uses. Greenpeace’s demand to slash global plastic production by 75% would create enormous unintended consequences, shifting the world toward heavier, more carbon-intensive alternatives, increasing food waste, transport emissions, and cost to consumers.
A production cap does nothing if we don’t fix waste collection and recycling. Without a change in attitudes, to one where plastic is valued and recycled, we will not address the core issue. Placing a cap on production does not address pollution but promotion of effective recycling will.
INEOS has invested significantly in advanced recycling, circular design, and low-carbon plastics production. We support a global agreement that is ambitious, science-based, and focused on outcomes, not ideology. But we won’t apologise for producing the materials the world needs, nor for standing up for policies that actually work.
Unless groups like Greenpeace stop attacking companies like INEOS and start supporting the rollout of waste infrastructure and advanced recycling, they are actively contributing to the problem. They’re standing in the way of the very solutions that are needed, whether we produce more or less plastic.
INEOS sends two people to attend the Global Treaty. They are delegates, technical experts and engineers, who can offer real-world insight into how circular systems and chemical recycling can be scaled, they are not lobbyists. We will continue to operate safely, legally, and responsibly and we will continue to stand up for industry, energy security, and practical environmental progress.