I read all of Part One of this book, pages 21 thru 81. In part one they are focusing on different products we use in our daily lives, how they're used and benefits or ways we can keep on reusing. Reusing is our key term for Part One.
"Production of plastic grocery bas actually consumes 40% less energy, generates 80% less solid wast, produces 70% less air pollution, and releases 94% fewer waterborne wastes than paper bags!" We all try to collect plastic bags thinking we will reuse them, but sooner or later they over overflowing from our cupboards. Using cloth bags when going to the store will extend the life of the landfill, save $$ by reducing the number of bags companies need to buy, and also make it easier for stores to maintain prices if theres a reduction in plastic bag demand.
In 1995, there was 19 million tons of plastic sent to landfills- after recycling was employed, that number dropped by 1 million tons. Did you know toothbrushes contain up to 70% recycled polypropylene and plastic materials? Experts predict that in the next 20 years all plastics will become recyclable. Choosing these products is a way to support this effort. Reduce consumerism and save $$ by reusing old toothbrushes as cleaning tools.
Reuse, reuse, reuse.
Just curious, why did the book start on page 21? Did it have some background info or pictures before the content began? Interestingly enough, I feel like recycling should reduce the number of tons by more than just one, don't you? Granted 1 million tons is a lot, I think it should be more, or at least would hope it is. I try really hard to use reusable bags when shopping, but I would say my biggest downfall is at the mall. I never think to bring them there, usually I only bring them to the grocery store. But if you bring them with you to Target, they take of five cents from your order. It isn't much, but its nice that they are recognizing our help to the environment.
ReplyDeleteThis is going to make you think twice about throwing something away and it's great. I'm glad you are sharing with us so we, too, can learn about recycling.
ReplyDeleteWow you have some powerful statistics in your post. What shocked me the most is the 19 million tons of plastic that is sent to landfills; it is such a shame because a lot of plastic can be reused. I may be guilty of throwing plastic bottles and such when I should be recycling. Hearing how much plastic is thrown away has just given me a huge wake up call.
ReplyDeleteI actually have also heard before that plastic bags use up less energy and create less pollution than paper bags, which is so strange, since everyone thinks paper is better. I try to reduce the amount of bags that I bring back home, but I have not bought a cloth bag yet to bring with me. It's so simple and cheap, its a wonder how there are still so many people that do not bring their own bags instead.
ReplyDeletewow, tooth brush as a reusable cleaning tool? I don't know where I can use to clean it with but I will look into that. Plastic bags are better than paper bags? I didn't know that. I thought it was the opposite! I just recently bought a cloth bag and am training myself to use it more.
ReplyDeleteAwesome post. I can't say that I knew all of that info until last year. It's so surprising that plastic bags are actually better to produce than paper. And you can actually recycle them too. I know that there is a drop off bin at Mt Royal Fine Foods as well as the Book store. But the best bet is just using a cloth bag!
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