Types of film paper
Although we know the theory, there are articles that are misleading, either because they contain various materials, or because they are not recyclable, even if they appear to be, because they contain polluting substances. Here are some of the most common mistakes we tend to make:
The custom of ordering coffee to go, which is not at all ecological, is becoming more and more widespread. The typical cups with plastic lids where coffee is served are not recyclable, unless they contain the symbol indicating that they are. Most contain a polyethylene plastic coating that makes it very difficult to process them and they are discarded at recycling centers. There are already initiatives to reduce their use and even ban them, so the best thing to do is to take a thermos or reusable cup to the cafeteria and ask to be served in it.
It is common that they generate confusion and end up being thrown either in the organic or plastic container, but it is appropriate to deposit them in the gray or normal container, the remains, as well as sanitary towels and tampons.
How to recycle aluminum foil
It is increasingly common that, when using plastic containers, a series of doubts arise: is it a recyclable material? What do I have to do to recycle this container? What will the recycled material obtained be used for?
The first thing to do to recycle a container is to check what type of plastic material it is made of and whether it is recyclable. Later sections of this article will show how to differentiate and classify plastics, as well as which ones are recyclable. Then, if it is a recyclable material, simply dispose of the containers in the yellow container.
Once the recyclable plastics have been separated, they are thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining labels or their original contents. The plastic is then shredded and melted, resulting in resin pellets that are the raw material for new plastic products.
From the above classification, the materials that can be recycled are PET, HDPE, LDPE and PP. This means that most bottles, plates and cups, caps for containers, trays, etc. can be recycled and should be deposited in the yellow container.
How long it takes film to degrade
When you are going to cook, try to think not only about the ingredients and pots and pans you will need to prepare your dish. If you plan your kitchen with the containers you need to preserve your stew in mind, you can take a lot of plastic out of your life. So, you can resort to glass jars to preserve food, instead of film.
You can also use glass or stainless steel containers, and give more use to your tartar containers. Pros: it allows you to reuse containers, and you can even use them to freeze food. Although it requires a little more planning and time, it’s worth it.
They are usually made of silicone, so they are reusable. Pros: they are airtight, since they have a closure, and allow both wrapping and covering food and leftovers. In addition, when folded, they take up almost no space in the cupboard. You can use them to heat food in the microwave and also to freeze. Cons: They are not very easy to clean, as they do not clean well in the dishwasher. You have to do it by hand, on each side (outside and inside), and let them dry well to avoid mildew.
Stretch film recycling
The problem with stretch film, which is also used to block packaging from moisture and heat, is that it is virtually impossible to recycle, even more so than its first cousin, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), because it contains such thin sheets that it is extremely difficult to separate. Plus, without specialized recycling equipment, they end up clogging up machinery.
We love using beeswax paper because it is so versatile. You can use it to carry your sandwich, chopped fruit, as well as the flowers you buy at your favorite store.
Finally, it is important to understand that change comes from us and to look for alternatives like the ones we have presented today. Let’s look for solutions together to guarantee the generations to come a place to live free of pollution.