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Category: Recycle

Food Packaging Plastic Containers Harm Health Environment PET
The Hidden Impact of Food Packaging: Understanding the Health and Environmental Risks of Plastic Containers

The Hidden Impact of Food Packaging: Understanding the Health and Environmental Risks of Plastic Containers

Recycle, Retail, Sustainability , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0
02Sep

Despite the ban on single-use plastics, their presence remains prevalent in retail stores. In grocery stores, for example, you’ll notice pre-cut fruits, vegetables, baked pastries, prepared food and bulk snacks all packaged in lightweight, clear plastic containers. When you look for produce, you’ll notice a roll of thin, translucent disposable plastic bags for fruits and vegetables. Although the ban on plastic shopping bags at the retail level has had a significant effect, more work needs to be done to address plastic pollution effectively

We depend on retailers and the Government to implement and enforce the necessary changes required to reduce plastic consumption nationally. Unfortunately, the lack of coordination between the various levels of government and the retail industry hampers progress. To protect themselves from the harmful effects of plastic on their health and the environment, eco-conscious consumers must educate themselves about the chemical composition of plastic materials.

Below is an overview of the chemical composition of the most popular plastic products used for food containers in your grocery stores.

Food Packaging Plastic Harm Health Environment PET

Polyethylene Terephthalate or PET Plastic Containers

Polyethylene Terephthalate or PET are not familiar words we would use in our everyday conversation. Yet, this material is present in our everyday life. PET, as it is known to many, is made from polymerized ethylene glycol (C₂H₄(OH)₂) and terephthalic acid (C₆H₄(CO₂H)₂. Because of its durability, lightweight and resistance to moisture, it is the preferred plastic material for wet and dry food. It is the plastic container or jar used for sauces, condiments, microwavable meals, snack foods, single-serving yogurt cups, and liquid coffee creamers. 

The two primary chemicals in PET are ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. Ethylene glycol is a key ingredient in antifreeze and is used in various industrial processes. It can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin in significant amounts. Though ethylene glycol is used in the production of PET, it is not present in the final product. During polymerization, ethylene glycol reacts with terephthalic acid to form PET, which means that the final PET material does not contain free ethylene glycol. As long as PET containers are used according to guidelines, it is deemed to be safe according to the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority).

Although PET plastics are declared to be relatively safe, extreme heat such as microwaving, can make the plastic less stable and will leak chemical substances which is harmful to our health. If PET containers can produce harmful effects to our health in certain conditions, its end-of-life presence in the environment also poses the same risks. 

PET has a recycling code of #1 which is highly recyclable and can be cleaned, shredded and processed into new PET products. But only about 30 – 40% of containers made of PET are recycled in the US and while Canada only recycles 33%. The recycling rates vary by region depending on the recycling infrastructure in place and the adoption of recycling practices. 

Food Packaging Plastic Harm Health Environment PET

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Plastic Containers

For sturdy containers, high density polyethylene (HDPE) is the ideal plastic material. HDPE is commonly used for dairy products like yogurts, milk and creams, juices and large water bottles, frozen meals, bottled condiments and sauces. HDPE’s chemical composition is polymerized ethylene (C₂H₄). Due to its food-grade compliance, durability and strength, chemical resistance to acids and alkalis found in food products, higher temperature tolerance to hot and cold and clarity options (translucent to opaque finishes), it is an attractive and cost-effective option for food manufacturers.

HDPE is a relatively simple type of polymer based on the polymerization of ethylene. The polymer chains in HDPE are linear and closely packed, which contributes to its high density and strength but to enhance its stability further, UV stabilizers and antioxidants are added to extend the life of the container. 

Under low temperatures, HDPE is stable and food safe. It remains flexible and durable making it ideal for use in refrigerated and frozen environments. It does not become brittle and break in frozen temperature. However, HDPE has a melting point between 120°C to 180°C (248°F to 356°F) and when exposed to heat, HDPE may release small amounts of chemicals, though generally not a significant concern under normal conditions. However, long-term exposure or high levels of certain additives could pose risks, which is why regulatory agencies carefully control their use.

HDPE has a recycling code #2 recyclable but not biodegradable. Approximately 30% to 35% of HDPE containers are recycled in the US, 33% is recycled in Canada, and 40% are recycled in Europe. The recycling rate is influenced by factors such as local recycling infrastructure, consumer participation, and market demand for recycled materials. Efforts to improve recycling rates continue through better education, infrastructure, and technology.

Polypropylene (PP) Plastic Containers

Polypropylene is widely used for food packaging such as microwavable frozen food, yogurt cups, sauce bottles, deli containers, and flexible pouches for soup mixes, pet food and other dry goods. It chemical composition is made from polymerized propylene (C₃H₆). Due to its heat resistance, chemical resistance and durability, it’s a popular choice for grocery food products.

PP is chemically inert, which means it does not react with food or beverages under normal conditions which minimizes the risk of leaching harmful substances into the food. It’s resistant to many chemicals, including acids, bases, and oils, making it suitable for a wide range of food products.

Polypropylene has a high melting point (around 160-170°C or 320-338°F), which allows it to withstand microwave and dishwasher temperatures without deforming. It’s durable and can withstand impact and stress, providing a reliable option for packaging and storing food. Many polypropylene containers are designed to be microwave and dishwasher safe, making them convenient for everyday use.

Polypropylene is labeled with recycling code #5, indicating that it is recyclable. But while polypropylene is recyclable, it is not biodegradable. Containers made of PP do contribute to environmental waste and can exist in our landfills for centuries.

Polycarbonate (PC) Plastic Containers

Polycarbonate (PC) is typically used for soft drink or water bottles and restaurant containers. It’s considered an ideal material for plastic due to its clarity, durability and impact resistance. The primary monomers used to produce polycarbonate are bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene. The polymerization of these monomers forms the polycarbonate polymer. The chemical formula of BPA is C₁₈H₁₈O₂. BPA is a key component in the production of polycarbonate and provides the backbone of the polymer chain. The chemical formula of phosgene is COCl₂. Phosgene is used to introduce carbonate groups into the polymer chain.

Polycarbonate plastics often contain bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that has been associated with health concerns. As a result, many manufacturers have shifted to BPA-free alternatives for food containers. When using polycarbonate containers, it is important to check if they are labeled as BPA-free. Regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, monitor the safety of materials used in food contact applications. 

Polycarbonate has a softening point of around 230°C to 250°C (446°F to 482°F) and starts to decompose around 300°C to 350°C (572°F to 662°F). This decomposition releases gasses such as carbon dioxide and can result in a reduction in material strength cause warping or loss of mechanical properties.

Polycarbonate is classified under the recycling code #7, which is a general category for various plastics. Recycling polycarbonate can be challenging due to its specific processing requirements and concerns related to BPA. 

The recycling rate for polycarbonate in the U.S. is estimated to be around 1% to 2%, in Canada at around 2 – 3% and in Europe around 5 – 10%. These low recycling rates are due to the lack of facilities that have specific sorting and processing techniques to recycle polycarbonate.

Food Packaging Plastic Harm Health Environment PET

Minimizing Plastics’ Environmental and Health Impact

Although industry regulators (FDA, Health Canada, EFSA) claim plastics are safe for food storage, exposure to extreme conditions can cause these materials to degrade and leak harmful chemicals into our food. In addition, its non-biodegradable property poses environmental harm. While we wait for the industry to find safer food packaging alternatives, consumers can take actions to minimize plastic use in our environment and retail stores.

Firstly, adopt recycling as best you can to extend the life of plastic containers and reduce landfill waste. Secondly, shop at stores that offer bulk goods with minimal packaging or those that use more sustainable packaging options. Thirdly, choose products packaged in glass jars instead of plastic containers. 

We still have work to do to improve the recycling rate for recyclable products. But in the meantime, focusing on what we can control can make a positive difference.

ecoluxe, recycling, plastic guide, sustainable, styrofoam, plastics, plastic cancer
Decoding Plastic: What Each Recycling Code Really Means for Your Health and the Environment

Decoding Plastic: What Each Recycling Code Really Means for Your Health and the Environment

Recycle , , , , , , 0
26Aug

In almost every product we purchase in a plastic container, numbers are printed to identify the type of plastic material used. The number is typically found inside a triangle of arrows, known as the recycling symbol, on the bottom of the container. 

This is a coding system implemented by the Plastics Industry Association called Resin Identification Code. While recycling programs can differ by county, city, and region, this system aids in classifying and sorting plastics for recycling. Understanding what each number represents can help you make more informed decisions about recycling and assess the safety of your containers.

There are seven general types of plastics and they are polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene and others (BPA).


#1: PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

PET is often used for bottles and food containers. Products such as water bottles are the most common containers made out of PET. PET is relatively stable and doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into food or drinks under normal use conditions. But when exposed to high temperature over a period of time such as in a hot car, PET can start to degrade and there’s a potential for some leaching. 

PET plastics are generally recyclable and widely accepted but not all PET products are recycled, and improper disposal can contribute to environmental pollution

#2: HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

HDPE is often used for milk jugs, detergent containers, and food containers. It’s known for chemical resistance and stability. Under normal conditions, it does not leach harmful chemicals into food or beverages and has a relatively high melting point. However, like all plastics, it should not be exposed to excessive hat or direct sunlight for prolonged periods as it causes degradation

HDPE is widely accepted in recycling programs, and it is considered relatively easy to recycle. Many recycling facilities are equipped to handle HDPE, which helps mitigate its environmental impact.

#3: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is used for plastic food wrapping, food packaging, shrink wrap, toys and kitchen gadgets. It  can be more concerning compared to some other plastics due to its chemical composition and potential health and environmental impacts. PVC is made from vinyl chloride monomer, which is a hazardous substance. The production and processing of PVC can involve toxic chemicals, including dioxins and phthalates. When used in food packaging, PVC can contain additives like phthalates, which are used to make the plastic more flexible. Phthalates have been associated with various health risks, including endocrine disruption.

PVC is not always easily recyclable, and improper disposal can contribute to environmental pollution.

Decoding Plastic 2

#4: LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

Due to its flexibility and durability, LDPE is used for a variety of applications such as grocery bags, food wraps, plastic liners, household containers, pipes and tubing and squeeze bottles.. LDPE has a low melting point and can deform or degrade at high temperatures. It is not suitable for use with hot liquids or in high-heat applications nor in microwave as it can soften or release potentially harmful substances.

While LDPE is recyclable, it is less commonly accepted by recycling programs compared to other plastics like PET or HDPE. LDPE’s disposal can contribute to plastic pollution if not managed properly. It’s important to follow local recycling guidelines to minimize impact to the environment.

#5: PP (Polypropylene)

PP’s resistance to chemicals, moisture, and heat makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. PP can be found in packaging, textiles, automotive parts, household goods, medical applications, industrial and construction materials. Polypropylene can withstand moderate to high temperatures, but when exposed to extremely high temperatures or direct flames,  it can degrade and potentially release fumes.

PP is less commonly recycled compared to some other plastics, and improper disposal can contribute to plastic pollution.

ecoluxe, recycling, plastic guide, sustainable, styrofoam

#6: PS (Polystyrene)

PS in its foam form (commonly known as Styrofoam), is used as styrofoam food containers, drinking cups, insulation, household items and more. Polystyrene, can leach styrene, a chemical that has been classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). While styrene levels in food containers are generally low, prolonged contact with hot or fatty foods can increase the risk of leaching.

Polystyrene is not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. This contributes to plastic pollution, particularly in marine environments where it can be ingested by wildlife.

#7: Polycarbonate, BPA, and Other Plastics

Polycarbonate is used in eye glasses, phone cases, construction materials and more. Polycarbonate is made using bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that has been linked to various health concerns. BPA is an endocrine disruptor, which means it can interfere with hormone systems. When used for food and beverage containers, polycarbonate products should be used according to manufacturer guidelines to minimize the risk of BPA leaching, especially when exposed to high temperatures or prolonged use.

Polycarbonate is not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for a long time. This contributes to plastic pollution, particularly if not properly disposed of or recycled.

Takeaways

Understanding the types of plastics used in various products can help you make more informed decisions about recycling and safety. By being aware of these characteristics and following proper recycling practices, you can contribute to reducing plastic waste and mitigating its impact on health and the environment. Always refer to local recycling guidelines and consider alternatives when possible to help minimize the negative effects associated with these materials

kitchen recycling sustainable home
8 Kitchen Habits for Sustainable Living

8 Kitchen Habits for Sustainable Living

Recycle, Home Products, Sustainability , , , , , , , 0
10Dec

Most of us don’t even really think about the habits we have in the kitchen that contribute to waste in our landfills and the environmental damage it causes. We choose the easy and more convenient way of doing things like just throwing everything but the kitchen sink in the garbage instead of consciously separating waste and directing it to their appropriate places. 

 

We use a lot of plastic to store food like saran wrap and ziploc bags. We buy large quantities of food and throw unused or spoiled food in the garbage. We buy processed food that is packaged in layers of non-biodegradable packaging or made from non-sustainable products.

 

Some of us may be clueless about the impact our habits have on the environment while others are perfectly aware but don’t have the facility nor the local infrastructure for a more eco-friendly waste management solution.

 

Garbage is filling up our landfills each year and it doesn’t seem to be easing up. In Canada, 31 million tonnes of garbage is produced each year and in the US, over 200 million tonnes of municipal solid waste was thrown away in 2018.

 

In order to change this trend, we all need to do our part. Each household can make a small contribution to a greener future by making the right choices and changing small habits every day in our kitchens. Here are some simple tips to implement in your kitchen.

1. Composting

Composting is a microbial process that converts plant materials and food scraps into a usable rich, organic matter that fertilizes soil. Composting provides the right environment for bacteria, fungi and other decomposing organisms like worms and sowbugs to convert these organic waste to fertilizers.

 

If your local waste management system doesn’t have a composting program, consider separating food scraps from other non compostable garbage yourself and throwing them into your garden (if you have one). This is the best way to reduce and divert organic compostable matter from the landfills.

kitchen recycling sustainable home

2. Just-in-Time Food Consumption

Instead of cramming your refrigerator with bulk purchases of food that you have to freeze, consider consuming fresh food from the market. Picking up food when you need it, reduces the need to package and store food which, in turn, reduces the demand for more plastics and packaging. 

 

Not only do you benefit from healthier, fresh food but you also reduce your exposure to carcinogenic chemicals, such as nitrites and sorbates, that are often used to preserve food especially in canned, processed or pickled products.

3. Recycle What You Can

Whenever possible, instead of throwing packaging materials into your garbage, separate and recycle them. Refer to the recycling number and find out how your community is recycling these packages. 

 

If you live in a condo, perhaps there is a guide on how to separate your packaging and garbage so they are directed to the right bins. For example, some buildings may have a garbage chute that separates organic matter from garbage and recyclable products. Do your best to follow these guidelines. One error can spoil an entire bag of recyclable products.

 

If you live in a strata building, like a townhome, follow your waste management program and ensure you have all the necessary tools like compost pails and recycling boxes.

4. No Styrofoam Packaged Products

Many municipalities do not accept styrofoam for recycling. In fact, styrofoam is made of polystyrene which is petroleum based and typically non recyclable. Some municipalities do accept it as part of their recycling program but it goes through a lengthy process. 

 

Try not to buy food that is packaged in styrofoam. For municipalities that don’t accept styrofoam, this packaging becomes garbage. Be conscious of how products are packaged and ensure that you are not contributing to waste because the food you are purchasing is packaged in the wrong materials.

5. Reduce Food Scraps with Leftover Recipes

Get good at using leftovers to make meals and you will help to reduce the food waste problem. Approximately 81% of all municipal waste is food material. By learning how to make meals with leftovers, your kitchen can reduce the amount of food that is thrown away in garbage.

kitchen recycling sustainable home6. Use Cloth for Clean Ups

This is an easy one but sometimes hard to implement. When we have paper towels around, we tend to use it instead of reusable cloth. We may think that paper is recyclable and easily biodegradable but we have to remember that every time we throw paper towels, we are adding to the waste pollution problem. 

 

Instead of using a roll of paper towels, use a washable cloth that you can easily wash clean and reuse. J cloths are the best for wiping down counters and other table surfaces. Wash it and reuse it. 

7. Machine Dish wash instead of Hand Washing

Some may think that washing dishes by hand is more sustainable (minimized water use) but in fact, washing by hand may use up more water than a dishwasher. Many of today’s dishwashers are energy efficient and use less water when you choose a short wash setting.

 

If you decide to wash by hand, have a system in place so you don’t leave the water running for too long. The part that makes water use more wasteful when hand washing dishes is when you let the water run until it gets warm and then let it run as you are sudsing and cleaning off the grime. Consider an energy efficient dishwasher to get the job done quickly and more efficiently.

8. Remove Coffee Pods from Your Morning Ritual

When Keurig came out with a convenient way to make single serve cup coffee with K-cups, it was a popular option to multi cup coffee grinds. It offered less hassle with preparation and offered a large assortment of flavors. Unfortunately, unless you deconstruct the pods before disposing, they are not recycle friendly. The K-cups are made of a combination of plastic, aluminum, paper filter and coffee grinds. In order for them to be recycled, you need to remove the pods from the casing and separate them and place them in the right recycling bins.

 

To reduce the possibility of waste and garbage, consider using single serve instant coffee, reusable coffee pods with coffee grinds or coffee filters for single cups. All these options will help keep K-cups out of the landfills.

 

These simple changes can make a huge difference when households across the country start to adopt small sustainable practices in their kitchen. If we find alternative ways to our current habits and recycle as much as possible, we can divert garbage from the landfills.

 

ecofriendly office supplies
5 Ways to Operate a More Sustainable Office at Home

5 Ways to Operate a More Sustainable Office at Home

Sustainability, Home, Recycle , , , , , , , 0
05Apr

Since the pandemic, many of us have experienced a change in our workplace environment. Commercial spaces emptied and the downtown core saw an outflow of employees moving their work from office to home. Our workplace environment has changed and so has our mode of business operations.

With less commuting, less overall business activities and to some degree, reduced consumption, we realized that this new normal improved our environment, specifically our air quality. Less carbon emissions from the commuting public and less manufacturing activities cleared the air (as they say). Working from home has now taken root and many employers are now accepting this as part of the new corporate reality.

With many of us now permanently working at home while others are working within a hybrid model, how do we maintain the eco progress we have made during the pandemic and ensure that we continue down this greener path?

One answer is to adopt more sustainable ways to operate your office and business. At home, you have full control of your environment from heating, electricity, waste management to purchasing office supplies. Here are five simply tips on how to maintain a more sustainable workplace at home:

1. Minimize the Printing

There are many ways you can help to save a tree. Remember that wood is not as sustainable as bamboo and requires approximately 50 years of maturity before being harvested into pulp and paper. Reducing the need to print will help slow down the deforestation (which impacts a host of other biodiversity issues). Here are ideas on how to adopt this quickly:
Choose email as a way to receive mail rather than physical documents

  • When printing, double side your print jobs to reduce the number of pages and ink required
  • Digitize everything. If you have paper copies, scan them using a printer / scanner or take a photo of it to create PDF documents and then recycle the paper
  • Instead of printing and distributing presentations, choose to screen share at the meeting or send a link prior to the meeting to prepare attendees for your meeting discussions

2. Cut down on Electricity Use

When not in use, turn things off. Sometimes we don’t realize that office equipment like printers, devices and other computers are using up electricity while idle. There are many ways you can conserve energy at your home office:

  • Use the same computer (desktop or laptop) for working and listening to music if possible in order to cut down on the number of devices you are using
  • Turn off printers, monitors, devices and other equipment when not in use
  • If you have a lot of natural light in your home office, consider positioning your desk near the window to reduce the amount of lights you need
  • Replace light bulbs with energy efficient LEDs
  • Wear warmer clothes to reduce the amount of heat required or turn off your heater during warmer weather

ecofriendly office supplies3. Recycle and Reuse Office Supplies

We buy a lot of office supplies that we throw away after a single use. While there are some items you can’t reuse like notepads with writing, there are many that you can recycle and reuse.

  • Binders are reusable and practical. They are expandable, durable, multi-purpose and versatile and a perfect replacement for single use notepads
  • Page Flags can be reused. They may not be as sticky as the first time you use them, but they still do the job when reused a second time.
  • Rulers and scissors can be reused. If you have a dull scissor, sharpen them instead of throwing them away
  • Reuse paper as scrap. Before throwing away a single sided piece of paper, use it for scribbling, sketching, doodling or note taking
  • Paper clips and rubber bands can be reused many times over
  • Replace single use plastic pens with refillable mechanical pencils.
  • Reuse printer cartridges by refilling ink jet or recycle the old ones appropriately

4. Buy Eco Friendly Supplies

Another option to creating a sustainable office is to buy eco-friendly supplies made of bamboo. A majority of office supplies are made from man made materials like plastic which are non biodegradable. Consider replacing these plastic supplies with bamboo made products. Bamboo is 100% biodegradable, eco friendly and far more renewable than wood. Here are some supplies that can be replaced with bamboo:

  • Pens and pencils
  • Pen and pencil holders
  • Drawer organizers
  • Device caddies
  • Rulers and straight edge sets
  • Pencil sharpeners

ecofriendly office supplies5. Choose Sustainable Kitchen Products

Working at home means having more frequent access to the comforts of our kitchen. This might mean more cups of coffee or eating snacks more often throughout the day. There are many opportunities to improve our habits in the kitchen. Here are ideas on how to adopt a more eco friendly practice:

  • If you’re using k-cups consider using instant coffee or filtered drip coffee to reduce waste
  • Make coffee at home instead of buying them from the coffee and then disposing cups that only add to landfills
  • Consider using paper bags for your garbage instead of plastic garbage bags.
  • Reduce the use of disposable food containers by making food at home instead of ordering out often
  • Use stainless steel or eco friendly bamboo utensils instead of plastic take out utensils

Working at home gives one a lot of flexibility and the ability to create a good work-life balance. For the most part, working remotely allows you to have the freedom to choose office supplies that are the most eco-friendly, control your energy use and configure your office in a way that optimizes your space for improved productivity.

Bamboo Plastic Utensil Disposable Cutlery EcoFriendly
Disposable Plastic Utensils Can’t be Recycled

Disposable Plastic Utensils Can’t be Recycled

Recycle, Restaurants, Sustainability , , , , , , , 0
25Jan

It’s everywhere – plastic utensils! They are cheap to produce, convenient to use, and accessible everywhere. In restaurants, cafes, eateries and grocery stores, plastic disposable single-use cutlery are distributed to you with your take out food. We happily accept them because many of us have been misled to believe that disposable plastic utensils can be recycled. 

Every year, more than 100 million pieces of plastic utensils (spoons, forks, knives) are used and disposed of in landfills by Americans every day. These plastics take thousands of years to decompose and they are not recyclable. 

Why Plastic Cutlery Are Not Recyclable

One reason plastic utensils can’t be recycled is because they are too small and their shape is inconsistent making them difficult to be sorted by the recycling facilities. The second reason is that plastic utensils are made with different plastic types including plastic #1, #5, #6 or bioplastics which are not universally recyclable.

Plastic 5 is made of polypropylene (pp) – a tough, lightweight material with high heat resistance that is often used to make containers for yogurt, sour cream, straws and margarine. Plastic 5 is petroleum derived but it is considered by the EPA to be a safer plastic choice than many others in the market.

It’s glossy finish when used as plastic utensils make it grease resistant and easy to clean. Although some curbside local recycling facilities will accept plastic 5 containers, utensils are far too small to recycle so they are tossed into the garbage.

Plastic Utensil Disposable Cutlery

Plastic 6 is made of polystyrene (ps) – an inexpensive, lightweight and sturdy plastic with many purposes and uses. Aside from plastic cutlery, polystyrene is commonly used for take out containers, egg cartons, peanut foam chips for packing and disposable cups and plates. 

Because polystyrene is structurally weak and ultra-lightweight, it breaks up easily and disperses throughout the natural environment. Products made of polystyrene may leach styrene, a toxic human carcinogen, into food products when heated in a microwave and eventually ingested by humans.

Recycling is not widely available for polystyrene products. Because most curbside collection services will not accept polystyrene, this material accounts for about 35% of US landfill contributing to the growing waste pollution.

In addition to its impact on landfills, plastic manufacturing utilizes a large amount of power and petroleum which, through its extraction process, releases gases and chemical byproducts harmful to people and our environment.

 

So Why Do Businesses Still Distribute Plastic Utensil

With all the plastic waste that is polluting our environment and affecting our health, why do businesses still distribute plastic cutlery? 

Because of the attractive properties of plastic – durable, lightweight, easy to store, accessible and inexpensive, they are the preferred choice for many businesses in the hospitality sector. They are functional, practical and versatile. 

Plastic is easy to produce and widely available. By achieving economies of scale, the cost of plastic per unit is very affordable and allows businesses to keep their costs down. 

Many business owners continue to distribute plastic utensils because they have been misled to believe that they are recyclable. While some simply are not aware of the environmental impact they have on the planet. 

 

EcoFriendly Bamboo Cutlery as the Ideal Alternative

There are other options and materials available as an alternative to plastics. One of the best eco-friendly materials is bamboo. It is fast growing, durable with tensile strength, versatile and most of all biodegrades within months. 

Without all the toxicity that plastics emit, its organic, antibacterial nature makes it a safe hygienic alternative to plastics. Because of its natural fibres, utensils made of bamboo are typically not uniform in color and consistency. They are, however, durable, lightweight and recyclable – characteristics that are desirable for utensils.

Bamboo Plastic Utensil Disposable Cutlery EcoFriendly

Disposing of bamboo cutlery should not make one feel guilty. Bamboo is a natural fiber that you can compost. Later in the composting stage fungi break down the lignin that’s in bamboo into less complicated elements which can then be broken down by bacteria. From leaves to stem, 100% of the bamboo can all be composted within 2 months or up to 4 years depending on the soil conditions.

Unlike plastic, bamboo does not derive from petroleum and doesn’t require a large amount of power and nonrenewable resources for its production. Though it may dry out if put in extreme heat (like a microwave), it does not emit toxic carcinogens and is safer for your body. 

 

Make EcoFriendly Choices with Bamboo Disposable Cutlery

Bamboo Plastic Utensil Disposable Cutlery EcoFriendly

While governments begin to ban single use plastics all over the world, we can still do our part in helping with the transition to less plastic waste in the environment.

What We Can Do

  • We can decline to accept plastic utensils given to us by restaurants when we order take out. 
  • When buying utensils at the grocery store, we can choose biodegradable ones
  • We can also choose to use silverware at home 
  • We can buy reusable bamboo utensils that can be used for the next picnic, travel or outdoor adventure

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What Businesses Can Do

  • Consider alternatives to plastic cutlery by purchasing bamboo disposable cutlery
  • Do not freely distribute plastic utensils for your take out customers
  • Start to offer bamboo utensils instead of plastic ones at grocery stores

Start making the switch and replace your plastic utensils with more biodegradable bamboo cutlery for your next outing.

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EcoLuxe Products, Sustainable, Sustainability, Chanelle Dupre, Plastic waste, Eco-friendly, recycle, packaging, biodegradable
The Movement Towards Zero Plastic Waste

The Movement Towards Zero Plastic Waste

Recycle, Restaurants, Sustainability , , , , , , , 2
04Jun

Plastics pose one of the greatest threats to our environment. The chemicals used to produce plastics and the chemicals released are both harmful and have long term effects on humans, the environment and wildlife. Thousands of sea animals, birds and other marine mammals are killed each year after ingesting or getting entangled in plastic waste that we dispose of.

According to Sea Circular, an organization that inspires market-based solutions to solve marine pollution, more than 700 species of marine animals were discovered with traces of plastics in their digestive tracts. 

How Plastics End Up in Our Bodies

It’s a fact that microplastics (1 – 5mm plastic diameter) and nanoplastics (200 nm in diameter) have been found in animals we eat. Microplastics enter an animal through its gills, nose or mouth and ultimately, they end up in our food and our bodies. 

An estimated 4 – 12 million tons of plastics are disposed of in our oceans annually and 94.4% of tap water samples taken in North America were found to contain plastic fibers – the highest in the world. It seems to correlate with our excessive consumerism and our use of plastics in our everyday life.

It is predicted that by 2050 there will be more plastics in the ocean than fish. With that dark outlook, it’s definitely time to recognize the issues and make the right choices.

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Canada’s Commitment to Zero Plastic Waste

Canada has moved towards a ban on single-use plastics particularly those that have alternative substitutes. The country has a commitment to have zero plastic waste by 2030. Every year, Canadians dispose of about 3 million tonnes of plastic waste and only 9% gets recycled.

It’s been reported that Canadians use 15 billion plastic bags annually and close to 57 million plastic straws daily with up to 1% of all plastic waste re-entering the environment. It may not sound like a lot, but if we consider the millions of tonnes of plastic waste and the fact that plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, we should have heaps of concerns about the growth of our landfills. 

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The Alternative Choice to Save the Animals and the Planet

There are alternatives to the plastic version of our household products. Though some may not be perfect substitutes, they are acceptable. Remember, back in the olden days, people did not have the luxuries we have now and yet they managed to survive. Perhaps we need to dial back our greed for more consumption and start reusing, replacing or just go without.

Regulations and new policies will force us to change our habits whether we like it or not. Canada’s ban on single-use plastic has been introduced with a graduated approach. The ban identifies 6 product categories that meet the following criteria: 1) the product is not being effectively recycled and traces of the product have been found in the environment and 2) there are alternatives or substitutes available. 

These products are the first to be phased out. Many businesses and municipalities have followed suit. 

The Alternative Choice to Save the Animals and the Planet There are alternatives to the plastic version of our household products. Though some may not be perfect substitutes, they are acceptable. Remember, back in the olden days, people did not have the luxuries we have now and yet they managed to survive. Perhaps we need to dial back our greed for more consumption and start reusing, replacing or just go without. Regulations and new policies will force us to change our habits whether we like it or not. Canada’s ban on single-use plastic has been introduced with a graduated approach. The ban identifies 6 product categories that meet the following criteria: 1) the product is not being effectively recycled and traces of the product have been found in the environment and 2) there are alternatives or substitutes available. These products are the first to be phased out. Many businesses and municipalities have followed suit.

Bamboo as a Good Alternative for Packaging

As a biodegradable, eco-friendly alternative, bamboo is an ideal solution for many plastic products in the market. To make the biggest and most immediate positive impact on the environment, we prioritize the substitution of packaging materials for more eco-friendly ones.

Restaurants and the hospitality industry are huge contributors in disposing of non-biodegradable plastics. As food delivery services and online ordering become the new norm, the use of packaging has increased exponentially and our landfills are piling up.

Containers, boxes and take away materials do not need to be made of plastic or styrofoam. Other biodegradable, organic materials can be effective replacements of all forms, sizes and types of food packaging and can accommodate keeping food hot or cold for at least one hour. If your food is taking over an hour to deliver, you probably shouldn’t be ordering from that restaurant anyway so think about the choices you are making.

In the same way, disposable plastic stir sticks, straws and cutlery can be functionally replaced with bamboo products. Use bamboo stir sticks instead of plastic ones. Use paper or reusable stainless steel straws and choose biodegradable cutlery instead of plastic ones. 

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Your Actions Contribute to Keeping Climate Change at Bay

Aside from the impact plastics have had on animals and people, they also contribute significantly to climate change. Greenhouse gases are released at every stage of the plastic life cycle: starting from the extraction of fossil fuel and its transport to the facility for production, then onto the plastic manufacturing of it, then to managing plastic waste after its use, and finally, the end-of-life disposal of non recyclable microplastics back into the environment. 

Although we still have a long way to go to reach zero plastic waste, we can start now by consciously making the right choices to use eco-friendly products over plastic ones. 

Learn more about the types of products you can substitute in your home.

 

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Consumer Attitudes have Harmful Impact on the Environment

Consumer Attitudes have Harmful Impact on the Environment

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The health of our planet is changing because of human behaviour. The human race is now facing new risks of food security, extreme weather conditions and new types of diseases that we can’t fight – like the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

EcoLuxe Products, Sustainable, EcoFriendly, Bamboo, Biodegradable, Sustainability, Chanelle Dupre, recycling, packaging, environment.
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The Difficult Challenges of Recycling

Recycle, Sustainability , , , , , , , , , 2
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Our increasing appetite and obsession for material things has contributed immensely to the growth of our landfills. Products, whether bought at a store or delivered to our homes, are packaged with materials that are often not biodegradable.

EcoLuxe Products, Sustainable, Sustainability, container, packaging, plastic, non biodegradable, plastic pollution, Chanelle Dupre
The Harmful Effects of Non-Biodegradable Products

The Harmful Effects of Non-Biodegradable Products

Recycle, Hotels & Resorts, Restaurants , , , , , 2
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Our planet continues to edge closer to a state where it will become unliveable to any life form. Our activities are causing the slow death of our planet. Our lack of awareness and bad choices over non biodegradable products is polluting the earth and we need to change the trend.

What are Non-Biodegradable Products?

Non-Biodegradable products are products that can’t be broken down naturally into simpler organic or inorganic matter. These include many household products we use daily such as plastic bottles, glass bottles, styro foam, aluminum cans, tin cans, aluminum foil, plastic straws, ziploc bags, plastic bags, nylon, leather shoes, disposable diapers, sanitary pads, rubber shoes, batteries, ink cartridges, scrap metal, tires and more. Non-biodegradable products remain on our planet for many years before they begin to decompose with some taking between 10 – 1000 years.

Through recycling innovation, some non-biodegradable products now have biodegradable alternatives.

Through recycling innovation, some non-biodegradable products now have biodegradable alternatives. Plastic bottles, six-pack rings, clothes, diapers and cutlery, for example, now have biodegradable options in the market for consumers. Reusing these products instead of disposing after a single use is also a practical way to support a sustainable environment.

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Hazardous Nature of Man-Made Products

Plastic remains a major concern for the environment. It is used in the production of numerous articles used in daily life including toothbrush, cutlery, trash bags, tupperware and lots more. It takes plastic products between 400 – 1000 years to biodegrade which is a danger to most life on the planet.

Plastic releases toxic pollutants which is a danger to both small animals like plankton and up to the most sophisticated of species – humans. The best alternatives are either biodegradable products or reusable products. These include stainless steel plates and cutlery, glass, beeswax-coated cloth, natural fiber cloth, wood, bamboo, ceramics, and paper.

Polystyrene commonly known as styrofoam is a petroleum-based plastic made from styrene monomers. It is commonly used for packaging food and for serving drinks, storing eggs, plates, to-go boxes, etc. estimated time of decomposition is 500 years. Styrofoam can release harmful chemicals into food thus causing a contamination which can be harmful to health. Its adverse effect on animals and the environment is devastating.

But there are several alternatives available for food packaging to replace styrofoam including paper based food packaging, cups and recycled carton for larger 

Silicone is consider more eco-friendly than plastic but it still takes between 50 – 500 years to break down. Silicone is used in the production of kitchen utensils, sealants, car gaskets, keyboard pads and more. It doesn’t pose great danger to the environment. It is inert, releasing zero toxins which makes it a healthier alternative. 

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Choosing to Go Green

The sustainability of our world is a job for all. If the earth must remain habitable, we need to start thinking green and making choices that promote conservation and preservation. There are alternatives and eco-friendly options to many of the products we use every day. Wood, bamboo, paper and plant based products decompose much quicker and secrete zero toxins making them some of the best alternatives to plastic and styrofoam. Although you may have to pay a little more in price and inconvenience for eco-friendly products, you can feel good that you are positively contributing to the environment.

As the world experiences more and more unusual weather patterns, we must take the increased frequency of these occurrences as a serious signal that the planet is changing. We need to be more aware of our choices, actions and attitudes towards how we consume products and how we dispose of them. Its not too late to start making the right choices and consider eco-friendly materials to save the planet.

Find more eco-friendly products here.

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