The message around the world is clear "Stop Producing Plastic Packaging", and rightly so. It's become a hazard to the environment and all natures of life around the globe. However, plastic packaging is not the problem. It's our ability to dispose of it correctly while extracting the ethanol from oil.
On a global scale, 1st world countries are working hard to lower carbon emissions and recycle plastics. Programmes are in place (for example the UK is using the 'widely recyclable' trademark labeling scheme ) and the public have become wise in understanding what needs to be recycled by reading the labels. This a great leap forward in forcing manufacturers, recycling centres and distributors to change the way they operate.
Why The World Needs Plastic
Plastic packaging is used for thousands of product solutions. Plastic packaging simply works; it helps keep it's contents fresh, clean and protected from external elements. This is one of the most important facts regarding plastics. It can prolong the life of the contents which keeps consumers safe from hazardous infections or disease.
In the world of cosmetic products. Other packaging solutions (Non Plastic) struggle to store liquid solutions such as skincare products, hair care products, oils, serums, creams, gels and other alternatives. These types of products tend to erode or cause a discolouring problem when used with alternatives.
Some of the most common plastics for packaging include HDPE (High-density polyethylene), PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), PP (Polypropylene), SAN (Styrene-acrylonitrile resin). These all offer a protective layer inside the container which is perfect for many different liquid solutions.
Plastic resin can also be moulded into almost any shape. This makes it affordable for the consumer. Alternatives such as glass and metal can make the product very expensive. We are living in an age where plastic is used for so many affordable products. Items such as shoes, mobile phones, watches, some clothes (Plastic fibres can be used to create affordable clothes), monitors, kitchen appliances and so much more. In fact, plastic is used for a massive amount of domestic and commercial solutions. This allows the economy to grow and also helps people with small disposable incomes, to buy essential every-day items.
Biopolymer Alternatives
A solution is here. Biopolymer plastic is now a new product on the market. Brands who use plastic as part of their packaging solutions, can now reach out for the biopolymer alternative. Biopolymer is the process of extracting ethanol from sugar cane waste, instead of drilling for oil. This process has a wealth of benefits for the consumer and product makers. Manufactures of plastic are already using it for HDPE and PET containers. Some of the benefits include:
# Lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced carbon footprint
# Made from renewable raw materials
# Derived from sugarcane waste not from oil
# No deforestation
# No atmospheric CO2
# Fits back into the recycling chain
# No difference in performance or colour
# The manufacturing process is the same
# Can be combined with PCR material.
Biopolymer is a great alternative because it can be recycled and keeps the product fresh and clean as just before.
The Future is Biodegradable Plastics
Biodegradable plastics are still being worked on. However, there seems to be a problem with products using cosmetic or toiletry liquids. Imagine walking into your local superstore and seeing the product biodegrading in front of your eyes. The persisting problem is 'shelf life'. We need a biodegradable alternative that could possibly react with salt water or the elements; in a shorter period of time. Manufacturers and scientists are working on an enzyme that works like 'yeast'. This eats the plastic over a short period of time. Tests are still being carried out. However the future looks bright for a biodegradable plastic that works with many different chemicals on the market today.
Whats The Message?
The short term problem is getting country leaders to work together. There should be a set standard 'globally' that enforces plastic waste to be recycled and disposed of correctly. Brands should be pushing now for biopolymer alternatives, while scientists and manufacturers work together to produce a protective packaging solutions that is biodegradable over a few years. Consumers still need to work together and make sure they read the labels and pop the packaging in the correct bins.
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