Slide toggle

Welcome to Ecoluxe

Ecoluxe offers a collection of ecofriendly bamboo made products for the environmentally conscious person or business.

This is a custom, collapsible widget area. Use it like any other sidebar and easily place any number of widgets here.

Tag: recycle

ecoluxe, recycling, plastic guide, sustainable, styrofoam, plastics, plastic cancer

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

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

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.

 

EcoLuxe Products, Sustainable, Sustainability, Chanelle Dupre, Plastic waste, Eco-friendly, recycle, packaging, biodegradable

The Movement Towards Zero Plastic Waste

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.

Get the Latest on Sustainability News

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. 

Plastic waste, Eco-friendly, recycle, packaging, biodegradable

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. 

Plastic waste, Eco-friendly, recycle, packaging, biodegradable

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.

 

Contact Us

Let's Hear from You

plastic containers

The 5 Types of Plastic that Create a Negative Impact on the Environment

Companies use plastic for their products or packaging because it’s durable and cheap to make and has desirable traits such as its versatility and durability. But unfortunately, it’s harmful impact on the earth is life changing. 

EcoLuxe Products, Sustainable, EcoFriendly, Bamboo, Biodegradable, Sustainability, Chanelle Dupre, recycling, packaging, environment.

The Difficult Challenges of Recycling

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.