Let's get a sense of balance over plastic
I was somewhat disappointed to read the lead article in today's edition (BG April 18) as it continues to perpetuate a number of myths about plastics.
Whilst there is clearly a littering issue relating to behavioural issues, the current poor environmental profile for plastics needs to be corrected.
A few facts...
Plastics of all types make up less than 4 per cent of oil consumption
Pre-consumer food spoilage rates in the developed world - thanks in major part to plastics - are around 2pc. In developing countries the figure is 40pc due to a lack of protection from materials like plastic.
Carrier bags are one third of the thickness of 18 years ago and contain a significant percentage of post consumer recyclate. Plastic films - unlike paper - can be recycled time and time again.
Most sensible householders recycle plastic shopping bags as pedal bin liners.
There is no doubt that the environmental message should be to Reduce, Re-use or Recycle so multi-use bags as suggested in the article are a good idea, but please let's get a sense of balance to the use of plastics!
Chris Byrom
Willow Grove
Beverley
The full article contains 198 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
24 April 2008 4:35 PM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Beverley
