Using Biodegradable Tableware & Their Environmental Benefits
In modern society, plastics are everywhere. However, there is growing concern regarding the use of plastics due to their negative impact on human safety and the environment.
But how is it possible to minimise the impact of plastics when humans use them so widely? One solution is to replace them with biodegradable products.
Read on to learn more about what they are and how they can benefit the environment.
What are biodegradable products?
Biodegradable products are made from materials that microorganisms can break down into natural compounds like carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.
Safe for the planet and humans
Unlike plastics, biodegradable items do not emit toxic chemicals like phthalates into the earth as they are produced from natural components. If they are compostable, they can also organically disintegrate and enrich the soil, thus reducing the need for chemical fertilisers.
Furthermore, being made from natural materials and thus free from toxins, biodegradable tableware is safe for humans. Plastics, on the other hand, contain bisphenol-A and phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors and have been linked to health issues like cancer and obesity.
Plastic containers also can't be placed in the microwave without releasing harmful compounds that hurt humans and the environment. Biodegradable and sustainable food packaging is thus the way to go for a flexible and microwave-friendly option.
Reduce landfill waste
Traditional plastic cutlery is not biodegradable and takes hundreds of years to decompose. This leads there to an accumulation of plastic waste in landfills, causing pollution and taking up precious land space.
Conversely, biodegradable dinnerware will break down over time, so there will be a reduction in the volume of waste created. Therefore, less waste will end up in landfills, saving the land for other purposes.
Renewable base materials
Not only are biodegradable products made with sustainable techniques that do not harm the environment, but they are also made from renewable materials like potato starch and sugarcane pulp. This ensures that the final product is eco-friendly and non-toxic. It also means that they will not deplete the earth's natural resources. At SKP, our biodegradable tableware is made with our own material called EcoVue, which contains a unique biodegradable additive that allows our plastic to decompose at a significantly quicker rate.
Reduce marine pollution
Plastic waste makes up 80% of all marine pollution. It is one of the leading causes of marine species extinction, health issues in humans and animals, and the destruction of the ecosystem.
When plastic items are thrown into the ocean, aquatic animals may ingest them or get entangled, leading to suffocation, laceration, infections, and internal injuries. Over time, the plastic may accumulate in animals that eventually become food for humans, who become, too, affected by the consumption of the toxins in plastic.
Using biodegradable tableware will thus help to minimise pollution in the ocean.
More energy efficient
Less energy is required to produce biodegradable products than traditional plastics because the former do not require the same high temperature and pressure.
Protect the earth without compromising quality
Fortunately, there is no need to worry about the loss of quality when switching to biodegradable tableware. Biodegradable cutlery and dinnerware are as sturdy, durable, and longer-lasting as conventional plastic.
Conclusion
As technology advances, there are increasing alternatives to plastic, which is harmful to the environment. With biodegradable tableware's convenience, flexibility, and durability, it is easier than ever to go green.
If you're looking for sustainable tableware, check out SKP, which offers a range of products, from biodegradable utensils to eco-friendly disposable cups. Find out more at https://www.skp.com.sg/.