The Daily Assignment

CAN WE MAKE “PLASTIC-FREE” PLASTIC?

Did you know that “cling wrap” is one of the worst types of plastics for the environment – especially our oceans? According to the most recent PEW Charitable Trusts report entitled “Breaking the Plastic Wave,” the flow of plastics into our oceans is expected to triple by 2040. Each year 5.5 million tons of “flexible monomaterials” like wraps and bags get into the oceans and constitute 46% of all plastics leaking into the oceans. As an amazing alternative to plastic packaging made from fossil fuels, a few companies around the world are making wraps out of seaweed, a much more sustainable choice. Sway, a U.S. based company, is one of participants. Part of its mission statement is: “Without compromising on performance, we design next-generation replacements for plastic that replenish life from sea to soil.” A few major clothing brands were going to test some of the new packaging in their supply chains. Think about the ways that you can reduce your use of "cling wrap" plastic today by using alternative materials.

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