Packaging News, Plastic Pollution and Bans

China’s ban on single-use plastics

China’s Jan. 19 announcement of a sweeping, phased-in ban on many single-use plastics not only caught the attention of environmental campaigners, but also it’s likely to have a significant impact on polyethylene markets globally. The new policy from Beijing sets up bans on disposable plastics, including nondegradable bags, straws and cutlery to be phased in […]

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2019 New York City styrofoam ban
Packaging News, Plastic Pollution and Bans

No More EPS Foam in NYC, Law Now in Effect

Overcoming resistance from a coalition of businesses, New York City’s ban on EPS foam (frequently referred to by the brand name “styrofoam”) is officially in effect. This is a major effort to reduce plastic pollution that There is a buffer period this year where businesses continuing to use styrofoam will only receive warnings until July 1, after which […]

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Plastic Pollution and Bans

Eliminating Plastics Entirely is NOT the Green Solution

Eliminating all plastics would raise greenhouse gas emissions? This sounds counter-intuitive until you think through the alternatives to some of our economy’s needed plastics. According to Professor David Bucknall from Heriot-Watt University, there are no easy answers to global plastic pollution. “…the academics from Heriot-Watt University said replacing plastics with other packaging such as glass or metal […]

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Packaging News, Plastic Pollution and Bans

University Study Finds Plastics More Sustainable than Paper

Counter to popular belief, a new study comparing the total effect of plastic vs paper products indicates that plastics might be the greener option. “The idea that plastic packaging actually reduces solid waste seems like a contradiction if you look at the numbers put out by the mainstream media. However, a new study by the Earth […]

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Plastic Pollution and Bans

New Biodegradable Plastic Straw Created by Danimer Scientific

With businesses as large as Starbucks and McDonald’s phasing out old-fashioned fossil-based plastic straws, demand is growing for an Earth-friendly alternative. Traditional non-biodegradable plastics often end up polluting the oceans, waterways, and our communities. Danimer Scientific has developed a solution: the world’s first fully biodegradable plastic straw. Currently, those iconic green plastic straws of Starbucks and […]

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Packaging News, Plastic Pollution and Bans

Kroger Plastic Bags Phased Out by 2025

NPR reports on the ongoing efforts to combat microplastics in the environment, especially oceans, rivers, and lakes. Kroger has joined the fight by announcing a ban on their single-use plastic bags. They also have additional plans to reduce landfill waste by 90%. The Kroger Co. includes major chains such as Ralphs, Harris Teeter, Food4Less and […]

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