Say NO to Single-use Plastic
It is our responsibility to reduce the global plastic waste. Plastic pollution is everywhere, in our air, soil, rivers, lakes, oceans, beaches, even in our drinking water!
We use plastic for many reasons. It’s hard to avoid! It’s inexpensive. It’s light weight. It’s convenient. But, now we are just sticking future generations with the bill and the big mess to try to clean up.
So, let’s think about how, when, and where we can avoid plastic as if the future depends on it.
Plastic Identification Code
Plastics are divided in 7 groups identified by the plastic identification code (PIC). The PIC was introduced by the Society of the Plastics Industry, to provide a uniform system for the identification of various polymer types and to help recycling companies separate various plastics for reprocessing.
1. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is the main type of plastic used for plastic bottle.
2. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is stronger and thicker than PET. It is commonly used to make shampoo and detergent bottles, grocery bag, juice containers.
3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is typical used in toys, wrapping, tubes, and is one of the most hazardous plastic type.
4. Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is the most used in the world, employed mainly for bags and some plastic wraps.
5. Polypropylene (PP) is resistant to heat, so it it widely used for hot food contains, and considered a safe plastic option for food and drink.
6. Polystyrene (PS) is commonly found in food containers, egg cartoon, disposable cups, and bowls.
7. Others contain all the plastic not identified by the number 1-6. Polycarbonate is the most common plastic in this category which also include polyamide or acrylic plastic, and bioplastic.
European strategy for plastic
Circular Economy
Action Plan
Action on plastics is identified as a priority in the Circular Economy Action Plan, to help European businesses and consumers to use resources in a more sustainable way. Also, it is important to avoid single-use plastics and the addition of primary MPs in products.
