The CEO of Werner & Mertz, Reinhard Schneider, asserts that companies are opting for new plastic production instead of recycling due to a mere 1.4 cent difference in cost per bottle. This preference undermines consumer trust in brands and jeopardizes genuine recycling efforts. Schneider highlights that this cost disparity incentivizes the use of virgin plastic, despite sustainability claims. He further argues this practice amounts to greenwashing within the industry, damaging its overall credibility. The focus on profit over environmental responsibility is creating a system where readily available, cheaper new plastic is favored. This ultimately hinders progress towards a circular economy and effective waste management. Schneider’s statements aim to expose the economic factors driving this counterproductive trend.