By Judith Green • Co-Chair, Climate Committee; ExCom Member, North Jersey Group
“I just want to say one word to you… Plastics.” This advice for Benjamin Braddock in the 1967 movie “The Graduate” presaged a bright future for plastics. While they have come to serve a panoply of seemingly indispensable functions, their environmental costs are staggering. Our addiction to single use, “disposable” plastics isn’t necessary or sustainable.
Basic facts: Much of the 400-plus million metric tons of plastics now produced each year soon becomes waste, with about 11 million tons entering the oceans. Sadly, the United States is among the top per-capita generators of plastic waste. Among the many tragic results, vast numbers of marine animals and birds die each year from ingesting plastic or entangling with it. Meanwhile, global plastic recycling is just 9% and only 5% in the United States.
Greenhouse Gases: Manufactured from fossil fuels, plastics contribute to the demand to drill and “frack.” Deep rock fracturing (fracking) releases methane (the main component of natural gas) into the atmosphere where its heat trapping effects far exceed that of carbon dioxide. Further, the processing of oil and gas into plastic is energy intensive. Creating industry’s huge variety of plastics requires adding thousands of polluting chemicals.
No End of Life: Plastics accumulate and persist in the environment. Over time, however, mechanical forces break and shred plastic into micro- and nanometer-size particles, which end up in our air, water, food, soil and throughout the tissues of living organisms. What little we know so far about the health impacts of these pervasive plastic particles is highly concerning.
What Can We Do?
First, reduce at the source. Is it necessary to buy bottled water regularly? Even #1 (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles, which are among the most common for water and other drinks, shed microparticles into our drinks. Use of a safe, endlessly reusable stainless steel water bottle, and a home water filter is far cheaper. We can buy soda in cans and juice in glass bottles. Use washable cloth, mesh, and paper bags for shopping to reduce plastic waste. Ordering take-out food? Ask for aluminum containers and refuse unneeded plastic cutlery.
Second, reuse intact plastic food containers and zip bags. Clear, recyclable #1 plastic containers, most often used for bottled beverages, have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use and reuse. Plastics numbered 2, 4, and 5 are also considered safe to reuse. Reuse spray bottles by refilling them with tablet or liquid concentrates and water, or with white vinegar (e.g., for cleaning). This saves money and the environment.
Polyester and other synthetic fabrics are forms of plastic that are best refused at the source or bought for the long term. However, synthetic fabrics shed microplastics that end up in the ocean. In a dryer, the shedding is notorious. Launder synthetic clothes less often, spot clean, and hang them to dry.
When you need to replace items, keep in mind that glass and ceramic containers are safe and endlessly recyclable.
Silicone handily replaces plastic bags and wrap. Compostable paper food storage bags neatly replace plastic varieties. One such brand, Lunchskins, offers sealable, recyclable, nontoxic, freezer- and microwave-safe paper bags in different sizes. Waxed paper is making a timely comeback. Look for wax made from vegetable sources.
Lastly, recycle. Sadly, this fourth “R” is the least useful when it comes to plastic, as just 5% of plastics are recycled in the United States. Nonetheless, it’s important to follow your town or municipal recycling guidelines. Check plastic numbers and put unwanted plastics in the trash to prevent contaminating the plastic that is being recycled.