Issues > Prototype Issue -- 2001 > Reduce the Use of Plastics

Reduce the Use of Plastics

by Pamela Lundquist

Safer, Sounder Plastics to Choose

· When plastic cannot be avoided, check container bottoms for recycling codes (in triangle) and choose those that are accepted for recycling in your area. The most commonly recycled plastics are #1 (PETE) or #2 (HDPE).

· Choose non-PVC cling wrap (such as Glad and Handiwrap).

Plastics to Avoid

· Steer clear of PVC vinyl (#3) whose manufacture and incineration releases carcinogenic dioxins into the environment and food chain. PVC often contains lead, and toxic plasticizers such as phthlates that can migrate into food, water, air and our mouths.

· Avoid plastics that are often not recyclable: #3 (PVC), #4 (LDPE), #5 (PP), #6 (PS), #7 ("Other," often polycarbonate).

· Avoid plastics that leach chemicals suspected of disrupting hormone functions: #3 (PVC), #6 (PS), #7 ("Other," often polycarbonate).

Reasons to Avoid Plastics

· They're made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource.

· Production of plastics releases toxic chemicals into the environment.

· Chemicals can migrate from many plastics into food, water, air and our mouths.

How to Avoid Using Plastics

* Bring cloth totes or string bags to your supermarket to carry groceries home.

Choose refillable, reusable containers made of glass, ceramic or stainless steel.

Choose packaging that's made from the most easily recyclable materials: paper, glass, metal cans. (Purchasing recycled paper products completes the recycling loop!)

Bring your own container to salad bars, delis, wherever they serve in plastic.

For wrapped foods, best choices are butcher paper, waxed paper or wood-based cellulose bags (available from Seventh Generation).

Avoid single-use, disposable packaging. Buy in bulk, the least-packaged option.

Microwave foods and drinks in oven-proof glass or ceramic. Never let plastic wrap touch food while in the microwave.

Avoid plastic cutlery and dinnerware. use metal utensils and look for recycled paper products.

Filed under: Packaging, Recycling, Food Safety, Plasticis

Green Guide | Prototype Issue -- 2001 |