More of us are realising that we need to make changes for the better, to save natural resources, and to protect our planet. Packaging plays a huge role in this change, as disposable materials used in food containers are known for containing plastic, which is harmful to the environment. Luckily, there is a range of all-natural, plant-based, sustainable materials being developed so we can benefit from eco-friendly noodle boxes, takeaway coffee cups, napkins, and even cutlery. To find out more about the impact disposable food packaging can have on the environment, read on as we take a closer look.
Waste production & landfill
Food packaging is most likely to be disposed of incorrectly – especially on-the-go products. Most disposable packaging is made up of plastic, or materials that are non-biodegradable, which causes one of the main problems when comes to impact on the environment. When these materials are disposed of, they will end up in a landfill site. These sites are made up of all our discarded waste material, and they have a detrimental impact on our planet. Landfill sites produce a huge amount of greenhouse gas back into the atmosphere – including one of the most potent – methane. The more we waste, the more ends up in landfill sites, which will eventually lead to climate change.
Greenhouse gases
The waste that we produce in the form of disposable food packaging isn’t the only factor that contributes to harmful gases. The initial manufacturing process of plastic is also a cause of global warming. When brands use plastic for packaging, the demand for the material rises, and of course, it has to be made to make it to the shelves. When raw plastic resin is made for these products, a huge amount of greenhouse gas is emitted into the air. The more that we use them, the more needs to be produced, which is why making the switch to more eco-friendly materials is essential – to reduce demand.
The Environment
The environment is another factor that can be impacted by disposable food packaging. For example, if a sandwich box is dropped, the plastic that it’s made from will seep chemicals back into the earth. This can cause harm to animals if it’s ingested, or if they get caught up in it. It can also have an impact on the soil and earth and therefore plant life. Plastic and packaging like this, cannot break down back into the earth, instead, it remains and causes issues for the ecosystem. It can have an impact on natural processes, and even the food chain.
The Ocean Many of us will be aware of how much plastic is ending up in our oceans. Plastic waste makes it into the sea because of littering, not enough waste disposal in certain areas, and illegal disposal and dumping to name a few. When plastic products make it into the sea, they then start to break down into microplastics – this is where the problem lies. These particles are too easy for marine life to ingest. If they’re not ingested, marine animals can find themselves tangled up. Some animals even have stomachs filled with plastic. This is why disposal packaging needs to change to a more sustainable, natural, and biodegradable material, so we can save our planet.
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