Europe’s Plastic Policies Impact Global Petrochemical Markets
Since China’s ban on importing the world’s plastic waste began in January 2018, other countries have also felt an urgency to recycle more. Europe’s proposed strategy to expand recycling efforts starts with Europe recycling just 41% of plastic waste today. The proposed plans are designed to reach 55% by 2030. The new rules on packaging are projected to save around €100 per collected ton, as well as offering a better-standardized system.
With a significant reduction in plastic bag use, the focus now pivots to other single-use plastics and fishing gear. These plans include ensuring that waste generated on ships and gathered at sea are returned to land and handled there, as well as, reducing administrative burdens on ports, ships, and competent authorities.
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Thaw Season Begins March 5
Thaw season in trucking & freight formally begins Monday, March 5th.
Due to structural issues with warmer weather approaching and impacting bridges and roadways, trucks are forced to lower their load weight by a percentage depending on truck type and configuration.
How Blockchain May Create the Autonomous Shipping Container
With a great deal of ground to make up before it becomes a viable, widely-used commercial tool, blockchain technology is poised to make a massive impact on the freight and logistics industry. From managing bulk quantities of containers shipping intercontinental to monitoring the interior air quality and product status, blockchain technology will be posed to impact the freight industry along multiple avenues.
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Product Pricing Trends & Updates
- U.S. Propylene contract price down $.06/lb ($132/t)
- Polymer Grade: $.53/lb ($1168/t)
- Chem Grade: $.515/lb ($1135/t)
- European Propylene contract price settled at €617/t ($1119/t) for March
- €21/t decrease from February
- Crude Oil continues to hover above $62.50/barrel
- March Benzene settled at 306cpg, down 5 cents from Feb
Pricing info & trends courtesy of: PetroChem Wire