One of the easiest and most effective things homeowners can do to reduce their carbon footprint is to stop using plastic bags and bottles whenever possible, and take deliberate steps to see that those they do use are recycled.
However, Everitt says, everyone can do at least one thing to stop this spoilage, which is to commit to always using reusable shopping bags.
“Despite the fact that customers now have to pay for plastic bags in supermarkets and other stores, the small charge does not appear to deter most people from using them, and millions are thrown away each year, along with millions of plastic bottles, jars and tubs,” says Berry Everitt, MD of the Chas Everitt International property group.
He says the trouble with this is that plastic is not biodegradable, and in spite of large and very successful plastic recycling initiatives, discarded plastic products continue to clog waterways, spoil the landscape, and take up space in landfills - where they can take 1000 years or more to break down into smaller particles that will still pollute the soil and water.
Everitt notes that the production of new plastic products consumes large amounts of fossil fuels, and that they also pose a serious danger to birds and marine mammals that often mistake them for food. “Thousands of animals die each year after swallowing or choking on discarded plastic bags.”
However, Everitt says, everyone can do at least one thing to stop this spoilage, which is to commit to always using reusable shopping bags.
Made from renewable materials, these come in a variety of sizes and many can be rolled or folded small enough to fit easily into a pocket or a handbag, he says.
“And those who wish to do more can find ways to recycle or re-use as many of the plastic products used in their homes as possible. As a start, they should check out the Recovery & Recycling section of the Plastics SA website at www.plasticsinfo.co.za.”
Readers' Comments Have a comment about this article? Email us now.