In cooperation with experts, we looked at a few myths about plastic bags handed down. Just five most common of them will be presented in the following article.
Myth 1: Plastic packaging the content of harmful substances released
One of the most common myths about plastic packaging refers to the release of pollutants into the content of food or food stored in them. All packaging materials, especially those that are used in the food industry, however, are carefully tested and have no negative impact on the quality of the content. "Plastic containers are safe. Commonly is used in applications where large claims for hygiene, such as healthcare or in the dining room, "said Bohdan Danek, production manager Blatinie, engaged in the manufacture of plastic packaging and technologies for various industries." But it is of course necessary know certain limits of this material. Salary packaging for example, would not be too long exposure to heat, to prevent its degradation, "said Danek.
Myth 2: Plastics are not toxic plastic-like plastic
The second myth is related to the composition of the plastic packaging to contain toxic substances. As a core material for packaging in the food industry and is used primarily polypropylene, known by the acronym PP and polyethylene, abbreviated PET. In both cases, they are harmless and easily recyclable plastic. Conversely problematic as polyvinyl chloride or PVC. Although not clearly say that it is a hazardous material recycling of PVC is difficult and this material often contains unhealthy ingredients. The composition of the packaging material recycling giveaway sign having a triangle of arrows with a number, which can be found on each package. While packing density polyethylene has the number 1 and made of polypropylene # 5, PVC has a recycling code of the third
Myth 3: Paper is more environmentally friendly than plastic
Another concern is unfounded comparison with other plastics packaging materials. Although it is not clear that the plastic wrap is greener than its paper alternative, in terms of intensity of production may be so. If we consider the whole production cycle of packaging, plastic can be even greener than paper. "Paper production is more demanding on water and energy consumption. Paper as a heavier material also requires more complicated shipping, "compares paper and plastic in connection with the environmental impact of Bohdan Fallow Blatinie company that offers market thermoformed packaging." If the plastic packaging after use for recycling passed, its impact on the environment environment are minimal, "he added Danek.
Myth 4: Most of the plastic is burned
The myth of the disposal of plastic packaging is not only plastics but also other raw materials. While previously ended most of the packaging materials in landfills or incinerated today much of it is recycled. Especially used plastic bottles are highly prized commodity. Material that arises their recycling, is produced as furniture and textiles. Some plastics but can not be recycled. A typical example is PVC, which is in liquidation Czech Republic can only be incinerated. Modern incinerators, however, allow you to burn waste at high temperatures and hazardous substances arising from the thermal decomposition of plastics carefully filtered. The impact of burning plastic packaging on the environment is minimal.
Myth 5: Production of plastics-intensive oil
The last myth is related to the intensity of production of plastic packaging. Although oil is the essential ingredient in the production of plastics, their production but in comparison with the production of diesel and gasoline consumes very little of this material. Packaging materials, however, may not be produced only from petroleum products. Modern Plastic containers may be made, for example corn starch. Such a package can then be more easily disposed of for example by composting. At present, however, the mechanical properties of plastics made from natural materials, conventional materials still balanced. In practice this is still often we meet with polyethylene and polypropylene, and their subsequent recycling.
Source: tz Lesenský.cz