A Material Difference
New white paper reveals benefits of using recycled vs. virgin acrylic
Recrylic® – the world’s only certified recycled acrylic – has launched a new report that examines the environmental impact of using recycled vs. virgin acrylic. The report also introduces a new academic study that details how much carbon emission companies can save by replacing virgin acrylic with recycled.
Acrylic is a commonly used plastic resin – seen in everything from retail displays to lighted fixtures, artwork, architectural elements and other projects. For designers, architects and engineers, acrylic is a popular choice due to its aesthetics, durability, versatile characteristics and affordable cost.
Like any material, though, acrylic has an environmental price tag. Traditionally, acrylic is made from fossil fuels. Plant-based acrylic is on the drawing board ... but is years away from viability.
The report explores the relatively recent availability of 100% recycled acrylic as a potential solution for those looking for more sustainable acrylic options. The report also introduces the findings of an academic study that examines the environmental impact of both virgin and recycled acrylic. The study, conducted by Dr. Neeraj Dhingra, Assistant Professor of Practice at North Dakota State University, addresses three primary topics:
- Environmental impact comparison of virgin and recycled acrylic
- Impact of transportation on environmental benefits
- Environmental impact comparison of Recrylic vs. its competitors
As confirmed by the study, using Recrylic in place of virgin acrylic helps organizations to achieve sustainability goals by reducing CO2 emissions. Recrylic looks, performs and costs the same as virgin acrylic, and is readily available, which helps to eliminate any possible roadblock to its adoption.
The Recrylic report also quantifies, based on the study findings, how much CO2 emission can be avoided by using recycled acrylic. Recrylic offers a free carbon savings estimate on its website for individual projects.
To request a free copy of the report, please complete the form here: Recrylic White Paper Request