More than 160 years have passed since the first appearance of plastic, that is, between 1861 and 1862, when the Englishman Alexander Parkes isolated and patented the first semi-synthetic plastic material. Since then, plastic has seen continuous innovations in materials and possible applications.
The big boom, however, occurred in the 1960s, when plastic became the symbol of well-being and an indispensable element in our homes in the form of everyday objects.
However, the daily use of plastic, often disposable, contributes to air, water and soil pollution. Non-biodegradable plastic accumulates in ecosystems, harming fauna and flora. An emblematic example is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a vast area of plastic waste located between Japan and Hawaii, discovered for the first time in 1997 during a regatta. In Italy we also have a similar one off the coast of Tuscany, where waste transported by waterways has formed a large "slick" of plastic.
A particularly worrying aspect concerns microplastics. These particles, smaller than 5 millimeters, are now found everywhere, even within the food chain where they cause damage to human health as well as ecosystems.
What can we do?
We certainly cannot think of solving the pollution problems caused by plastic by ourselves, but we can commit ourselves to putting into practice good habits that help us reduce its use and reuse it when possible. Every small gesture can really make a difference!
Reduce the use of plastic bottles
Maybe you don't know, but Italy is in second place, in the world, for the use of bottled water, and most of it is plastic. The good news is that there are valid alternatives:
- Where the water is good, use tap water, perhaps by installing a purifier.
- Use public distributors that provide both still and sparkling water for free. In Parma there are 5 distribution points, we talked about them here .
- Choose to buy water in glass bottles. If they are too heavy, there are companies that will deliver the boxes directly to your home.
- Always carry a water bottle with you to fill up at home or at public fountains.
Choose compostable straws, plates and cups
- Single-use plastic straws, plates and cups are among the main contributors to environmental pollution. A simple and sustainable solution is to opt for compostable alternatives made from materials such as corn, sugar cane or bamboo that decompose naturally without leaving harmful residues.
- And if you have to organize a party or an event, remember the Stoviglioteca Comunale di Montechiarugolo where you can borrow reusable tableware made of unbreakable and 100% recyclable material.
Buy personal care and household products in bulk
- Use solid soaps and shampoos instead of liquid ones packaged in plastic.
- Look for stores that sell personal care products or detergents in bulk, allowing you to refill your own reusable containers.
- Also remember that products like vinegar and baking soda are great for cleaning your home. They have the advantage of not containing harmful chemicals and are often sold in glass or cardboard packaging that further help you reduce your use of plastic
Ice cream in a cone is better
- If you like ice cream, choose the cone instead of the cup. This way you not only avoid using single-use plastic, but you also get to enjoy a delicious crunchy wafer.
Use ceramic planters
- Even for your plants, you prefer terracotta or ceramic planters. They are suitable for both indoors and outdoors and, if you like, you can customize them by painting them or decorating them with materials such as wood, cork or shells.
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