Effects from storms can be unpredictable, far-reaching and last for months or even years. Beyond storm and flood damage, other issues can raise the prices of the materials companies need to conduct business, for example. Rail, port and truck logistical issues caused by Hurricane Harvey have led to shortages of polyethylene and polypropylene (PP), writes Plastics News. Manufacturers in the packaging, food, and consumer goods sectors, among others, have been scrambling to get their hands on enough materials for their operations.

The shortage of PP — used extensively in the auto industry as well as in the packaging industry — is more acute than the shortage of polyethylene. PP can be made into bottles, food containers, pallets, and more; 70 percent of the PP use is for the packaging needs of the food industry, according to CA-based company Global Plastic Sheeting.

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