Overview

Yukon Plastics[1] is a Whitehorse-based business founded in early 2022 by Janna Swales and William Powell. The company repurposes plastic waste into functional products like soap dishes and rings, transforming local plastic waste into useful household items and accessories.[2]

Mission and Vision

Yukon Plastics emerged in response to growing waste management concerns in Yukon communities, where recycling options are limited due to the territory's remote location. Swales and Powell were inspired by the potential to treat plastic as a valuable resource rather than a burden. They hope that local recycling initiatives like Yukon Plastics can reduce the amount of waste shipped out of the territory by creating practical, eco-friendly products. Yukon Plastics a proud member of Precious Plastics[3] and is the most Northern Precious Plastics member in the Americas.

Operations

The company employs an injection-molding machine that Swales and Powell use to mold discarded plastics—such as detergent bottles and broken containers—into new items. The production process includes shredding plastic into small pieces before melting and molding it into products, a labor-intensive but effective method to repurpose local waste.[4]

Future Goals

Yukon Plastics plans to expand its product line to include items tailored to Yukon residents, like furniture, fish bonkers, ice scrapers, and bike racks. By transforming plastic into goods relevant to local life, Yukon Plastics aims to foster a sustainable mindset while reducing environmental impact.

Significance

Swales' background in museum work has influenced her perspective, recognizing the historical significance of plastic’s arrival in the Yukon. She sees her work with Yukon Plastics as an opportunity to reshape the narrative of plastic use in the region, highlighting the potential to reclaim plastic waste and reduce dependency on external recycling services.

References

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  1. ^ "The beginning of Yukon Plastics". Yukon Plastics. November 12, 2024.
  2. ^ Bauberger, Nicole (September 20, 2023). "Mining the waste stream". What's Up Yukon. Retrieved November 12, 2024.
  3. ^ "The Academy". Precious Plastics. November 12, 2024.
  4. ^ Bossons, Matthew (November 23, 2023). "Plastic waste an 'untapped resource' in the Yukon". Yukon News. Retrieved November 12, 2024.