Category: Recycling Plastics

What is Biodegradable Plastic?

Biodegradable plastic is a type of plastic that can break down naturally into organic compounds. Unlike traditional plastics that can take hundreds of years to degrade. Biodegradable plastics can decompose relatively quickly under the right conditions. Usually, in the presence of heat, moisture, and microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.

Why do we need Biodegradable plastic?

We need biodegradable plastic because it can break down naturally into organic compounds. Unlike traditional plastics that can take hundreds of years to degrade. This can reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment and lessen the harm it causes to wildlife and ecosystems.

Biodegradable plastic is essential in reducing the amount of plastic waste in the environment. Traditional plastics can take hundreds of years to degrade and can cause significant harm to wildlife and ecosystems. Biodegradable plastics, on the other hand, can decompose relatively quickly under the right conditions, reducing their impact on the environment. They are also more sustainable and can help reduce the reliance on non-renewable resources. Additionally, biodegradable plastics can be made from renewable sources, such as plant starches and cellulose, which can further reduce their environmental impact. In summary, the benefits of biodegradable plastic include:

• Reducing plastic waste in the environment
• Lessening the harm caused to wildlife and ecosystems
• More sustainable than traditional plastics
• made from renewable sources

Is it really an alternative solution?

Biodegradable plastic is a real and legitimate alternative to traditional plastic. It breaks down naturally into organic compounds through a process called biodegradation. This process occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, break down the molecular bonds of the plastic, converting it into water, carbon dioxide, and other natural compounds. This contrasts traditional plastics that are not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, causing significant harm to wildlife and ecosystems.

There are different types of biodegradable plastic, some of which are designed to break down more quickly than others. Some biodegradable plastics require specific conditions, such as heat and moisture, to degrade, while others can decompose in the presence of oxygen and sunlight. It is important to note, however, that not all biodegradable plastics are created equal, and some may only partially degrade, leaving behind microplastics that can still harm the environment.

Biodegradable plastics can be made from various materials, including plant-based sources such as cornstarch, potato starch, and cellulose. Some biodegradable plastics can also be made from petroleum-based sources but with added compounds that help them break down naturally.

Biodegradable plastic is a real and effective solution to reducing plastic waste in the environment. By breaking down naturally into organic compounds, biodegradable plastics can help to reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment and wildlife. However, it is important to carefully evaluate the claims made by manufacturers and ensure that the product meets recognized standards for biodegradability and sustainability.

Say No to traditional Plastic

We need to start using biodegradable plastics because traditional plastics can take hundreds of years to degrade, causing significant harm to the environment and wildlife. Biodegradable plastics, on the other hand, can decompose relatively quickly and reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment. This can help to prevent pollution and protect natural habitats. Additionally, biodegradable plastics are more sustainable and can reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources. By transitioning to biodegradable plastics, we can take a step towards creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

• Traditional plastics can take hundreds of years to degrade and can cause significant harm to the environment and wildlife. (National Geographic, “Plastic Pollution”)
• Biodegradable plastics can decompose naturally and reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment. (US National Library of Medicine, “Biodegradable plastics: Opportunities and challenges”)
• Biodegradable plastics are more sustainable than traditional plastics, as they can be made from renewable sources such as plant-based materials. (ScienceDirect, “Sustainable, biodegradable polymers: Design, implementation, and applications”)
• Biodegradable plastics can help to prevent pollution and protect natural habitats. (EPA, “Sustainable Management of Food – Biodegradable Plastics”)

As mentioned before, by adopting biodegradable plastics, we can reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources and take an important step towards creating a more sustainable future for our planet.

Calling on everyone

It’s time to take action! Let’s use biodegradable plastics to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. By making small changes in our daily lives, such as choosing biodegradable products and properly disposing of them, we can make a big impact. We can also support businesses and industries that prioritize sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices. Together, we can create a more sustainable and healthy future for our planet and future generations. So, let’s start today and make a difference!

furthermore, as we advance in the future, reading about several accounts of plastic pollution and how to stop may help us become informed and make more advanced decisions

• “Biodegradable Plastics: Opportunities and Challenges” (US National Library of Medicine) – This article discusses the benefits and challenges of using biodegradable plastics, including their potential to reduce plastic waste and their impact on the environment. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073579/ 
• “Sustainable Biodegradable Polymers: Design, Implementation, and Applications” (ScienceDirect) – This paper examines the design and implementation of sustainable biodegradable polymers, including their use in reducing plastic waste and their potential as an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional plastics. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2451929420300295 
• “Biodegradable Plastics: A Review” (Journal of Polymers and the Environment) – This review article provides an overview of biodegradable plastics, including their types, properties, and applications, as well as their potential to reduce plastic waste and environmental impact. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10924-019-01594-4 
• “Sustainable Management of Food – Biodegradable Plastics” (US Environmental Protection Agency) – This resource provides information on the use of biodegradable plastics in food packaging and their potential to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the food industry. https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/biodegradable-plastics 

By using biodegradable plastics and supporting sustainable practices, we can reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet.

What Biobottles does to help?

Biobottles is a company that is taking steps to help address the plastic waste crisis by producing biodegradable bottles made from renewable resources such as sugar cane. These bottles can be composted or recycled and will break down naturally without causing harm to the environment. Biobottles has also implemented sustainable practices throughout its production process, such as using energy-efficient machinery and reducing water usage. By providing an alternative to traditional plastic bottles and promoting sustainability, Biobottles is helping to create a more environmentally-friendly future.

In addition to their product line, Biobottles is committed to promoting sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices. For example, they use 100% renewable energy to power their manufacturing facilities.  They have implemented a closed-loop recycling system to minimize waste and reduce their environmental impact. Biobottles also partners with organizations such as 1% for the Planet to donate a portion of their profits to environmental causes.

Overall, Biobottles is taking a proactive approach to addressing the plastic waste crisis. Offering a sustainable and biodegradable alternative to traditional plastic bottles. Also promoting sustainable practices in their manufacturing processes.

Let’s all take a step towards a more sustainable future by choosing eco-friendly options like Biobottles. Reducing our plastic waste and protecting our planet.

Why Plastic Recycling Isn’t Working Well for the Environment

While recycling overall is a good thing, why does so much plastic still end up in the ocean and landfills? Plastic Recycling Isn’t Working well, one reason is ineffective recycling systems. Recycling systems are often inefficient and inconsistent, which means that a significant amount of plastic still ends up in landfills or the environment. In some cases, recycling programs are underfunded or understaffed, which can lead to contaminated recycling waste streams or materials being sent to landfills instead of being properly recycled.

A complex plastic waste stream is also partly to blame. The plastic waste stream is complex and difficult to manage, with many different types of plastics that require different recycling processes. This can make it difficult for consumers to understand what can and cannot be recycled and make it challenging for recycling facilities to sort and process materials effectively.

Making matters worse is the lack of consumer education. Many consumers are not aware of the importance of recycling or may not know how to recycle their plastic waste properly. This can lead to the contamination of recycling streams.

Major Shortfalls in Recycling Plastics

• Contamination of Recycling Stream: One of the biggest problems with plastic recycling is contamination. Many consumers are not educated on what types of plastics can be recycled, leading to contamination of the recycling stream. This can make it difficult and costly to sort and process the materials properly.
• Lack of Market Demand: Another issue is the lack of demand for recycled plastic. In recent years, China has stopped accepting plastic waste from the USA, leaving many recyclers with few options for selling their recycled plastic. This has caused a glut in the market, driving down prices and making it difficult for recyclers to stay profitable.
• High Cost: Recycling plastic can be expensive, especially when compared to producing new plastic. This can make it difficult for recycling companies to compete with virgin plastic manufacturers.
• Single-Use Plastics: The rise of single-use plastics has also made plastic recycling less effective. Many single-use plastic products, such as straws and utensils, are not recyclable and end up in landfills or the environment.

Advantages of Biodegradable Plastics

Biodegradable plastics are a type of plastic that can be broken down into natural components which do not harm the environment. Here are some reasons why biodegradable plastics are superior to other types of plastics and how they can help save the planet:

Less Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Many biodegradable plastics are made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

Reduced Environmental Impact: Traditional plastics can take hundreds of years to decompose and often end up in landfills or in the ocean, causing pollution and harming wildlife. Biodegradable plastics, on the other hand, can break down into natural components within months, reducing their environmental impact.

Reduced Waste: Biodegradable plastics can help reduce the amount of waste in landfills and in the environment. This is especially important because traditional plastics are not biodegradable and can take up space for hundreds of years.

Lower Carbon Footprint: Biodegradable plastics have a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional plastics because they use less energy and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions during production.

Can be Recycled: Biodegradable plastics can be recycled and reused, unlike traditional plastics that are often downcycled or thrown away.

Can be Composted: Some biodegradable plastics can be composted, providing nutrients to the soil and helping to reduce waste.

How Biodegradable Plastics Can Help Your Business

Businesses may want to incorporate biodegradable plastics into their product lines for several reasons:

Meeting Consumer Demand: Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of the products they buy and are looking for more sustainable options. By incorporating biodegradable plastics into their product lines, businesses can meet this demand and appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers.

Regulatory Compliance: Some countries and states have implemented regulations and policies that require businesses to use more sustainable materials, such as biodegradable plastics. By incorporating these materials into their product lines, businesses can comply with these regulations and avoid fines or penalties.

Biodegradable plastic that does not break down into microplastics is a superior product because it offers several benefits over traditional plastics and other types of biodegradable plastics:

Reduced Health Risks: Microplastics are small particles that can be ingested by marine life, animals, and humans, leading to health risks. Biodegradable plastics that do not break down into microplastics help to reduce these risks and promote healthier ecosystems.

Improved Sustainability: Biodegradable plastics that do not break down into microplastics help to promote a more sustainable future by reducing waste and pollution and by using renewable resources.

Overall, the use of biodegradable plastics that do not break down into microplastics can help to reduce the negative impact of plastics on the environment, promote healthier ecosystems, and improve sustainability. By choosing products made from biodegradable plastics that do not break down into microplastics, individuals and businesses can help to reduce their environmental footprint and promote a more sustainable future.

Here are some potential impacts on the oceans and landfills if all plastics were biodegradable and clean:

Impact on Oceans:

• Reduction in the amount of plastic waste entering the oceans.
• Reduction in the number of marine animals ingesting plastic waste, which could lead to less harm and death of marine animals.
• Reduction in the amount of microplastics in the oceans, which could improve water quality and reduce harm to marine life.
• Improvement in the health of marine ecosystems, as plastic waste can disrupt ecosystems and lead to declines in populations of marine organisms.

Impact on Landfills:

• Reduction in the amount of plastic waste in landfills, which could extend the life of landfills and reduce the need for additional landfill sites.
• Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from landfills, as the biodegradable plastics would break down more quickly and produce less methane gas.
• Reduction in the amount of plastic waste in the environment, which could reduce pollution and protect wildlife and ecosystems.
• Promotion of a circular economy, where biodegradable plastics could be reused or recycled more easily, reducing the need for new plastic production.

It’s important to note that the impact of biodegradable plastics on the environment depends on how they are produced, used, and disposed of. Biodegradable plastics may not be a complete solution to plastic pollution, but they could be one tool in the larger effort to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment.

It’s difficult to say whether the plastic recycling industry will ever be completely phased out, as the industry plays an important role in managing the millions of tons of plastic waste generated each year. However, as concerns about plastic waste and pollution continue to grow, there are likely to be changes in the way that plastics are produced, used, and disposed of, which could impact the role and viability of the recycling industry.

What Would A World With Biodegradable Plastics Look Like?

As biodegradable plastics become more widely available and affordable, there may be a shift away from traditional plastics and towards biodegradable options. This could reduce the amount of plastic waste that needs to be recycled and could potentially reduce the need for the recycling industry. This could also  help to reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and the environment, and could help to extend the life of the recycling industry.

Shift Towards a Circular Economy: A shift towards a circular economy, where products are designed to be biodegraded, could reduce the overall amount of waste generated. In a circular economy, the focus would be on reducing waste and using resources more efficiently, which could reduce the amount of plastic waste that needs to be recycled, placed in a landfill, or wind up in the oceans.

Increased Regulation and Oversight: As concerns about plastic waste and pollution continue to grow, there may be increased regulation and oversight of the plastic industry. This could include mandates for more sustainable packaging, stricter recycling standards, and increased fees or taxes on plastic products. These changes could impact the profitability and viability of the recycling industry.

Why Transition to Biodegradable Plastic

Businesses may choose to transition to biodegradable plastics for a variety of reasons, including:

Environmental concerns: Biodegradable plastics can break down more quickly in the environment, reducing the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills, oceans, and other natural habitats.

Meeting consumer demand: Many consumers are becoming increasingly aware of environmental issues and are looking for more sustainable products. Using biodegradable plastics can help businesses meet this demand and maintain a positive reputation.

Compliance with regulations: Some countries are starting to implement regulations that require businesses to reduce their use of non-biodegradable plastics, so transitioning to biodegradable plastics can help businesses stay compliant with these regulations.

Cost savings: While biodegradable plastics may be more expensive to produce initially, businesses can save money in the long run by reducing waste management costs and potentially avoiding fines for non-compliance with environmental regulations.

If governments start to tax non-biodegradable plastics, businesses that continue to use these types of plastics may find themselves at a disadvantage financially. They may face higher taxes, fines, or other penalties for not complying with regulations, which can be expensive. Additionally, consumers may start to avoid businesses that use non-biodegradable plastics, which could result in decreased sales and revenue.

In contrast, businesses that transition to biodegradable plastics now may be able to avoid some of these costs and maintain a positive reputation with consumers. They may also be better positioned to comply with future regulations and avoid potential fines or penalties. While there may be some upfront costs associated with transitioning to biodegradable plastics, the long-term financial benefits could outweigh these costs.

References:

European Bioplastics. (n.d.). Biodegradable plastics facts and figures.
United Nations Environment Programme. (2018). Biodegradable plastics and marine litter.  
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (n.d.). What is a circular economy?  
McKinsey & Company. (2020). Plastics waste: A global crisis that can no longer be ignored.  

Picture this: you decide to take a getaway weekend trip to the beach. You want to dig your toes in the sand, breathe in the ocean air, and listen to the crashing waves. Maybe you will do a little surfing while you’re there. Or, maybe you will collect some seashells for your growing collection at home. Maybe you want to try to find a shark tooth along the shoreline. Regardless of why you’re going, you pack your bags and hit the road until you can smell the salt of the sea in the air. Your excitement starts to build as you grab your beach towel and eagerly jog along the boardwalk to get to the beach to set up your sunbathing spot. You can finally see the ocean when you realize something: it isn’t what it used to be. Instead of glistening shades of blue, the water is a sickly brownish dull color. Instead of clean waters, you see bits of trash and used plastic bottles floating in the waves. If this picture made you want to immediately find ways to reduce plastic pollution, keep reading.

The Harsh Reality Of Plastic Pollution

If you’re lucky, this has not happened to you yet. Unfortunately, this awful sight is a sobering reality for many. As much as people don’t want to hear this – there are millions of tons of plastics and garbage floating around in our oceans. There is a constant barrage of about one garbage truck full of plastic being dumped into our oceans every minute. This plastic pollution is a major threat to the marine life in these waters. Marine animals can get tangled in the discarded materials by mistake. Marine animals can also mistakenly eat plastics either because they thought it was food or the microplastics were so small they ingested them with the seawater.

The Problem With Plastic

What makes the plastic pollution in the oceans is the fact that plastic is not biodegradable. This means those plastics will not break down naturally very well. Most plastic takes up to 450 years to break down and can stick around much longer (up to 1,000 years or longer). Most of this plastic was once on land but was washed into oceans from weather conditions or via connecting rivers. If we want to keep our make our oceans pristine and protect marine life, we must find ways to reduce plastic pollution. We must make sure we reduce how much plastic pollution is available to be washed away into our waters.

12 Hacks To Reduce Plastic Pollution

While this may seem like a herculean challenge, there are many ways that every one of us can play a role. These tactics are small, but if enough people get on board the impact becomes massive.

1. Recycle.

I figured we could get the most obvious tactic out of the way. The sad reality though is that as simple as it sounds, we have not done a good job of recycling. It is because of this that only about 9% of plastic gets recycled. Confused about what can and cannot be recycled? Check with your city about recycling initiatives. Most buildings have recycling bins for items such as water bottles, soda cans, and plastic bottles labeled PET #1, #2, #5, and #7. In many neighborhoods, you can request the option for a recycling bin that will accept larger items such as milk jugs, laundry detergent bottles, plastic bags, buckets, etc. Be sure to ask your city public works organization for specifics in your area.  For more information on recycling plants, you can check out Earth911.org’s directory.

2. Pay attention to your coffee.

If you’re anything like me, coffee is LIFE. I easily consume 2-4 cups a day. Thankfully, this article is not about the dangers of caffeine overconsumption. I know I have a problem, but I’m not ready to deal with it yet. This is about the plastic that sneaks its way into your coffee habit. With the rise of Keurigs, coffee shops, espresso shop drive-thrus, and other styles of fast and convenient coffee-making, it’s difficult to cut plastic out from coffee use. Once upon a time, I had a Keurig. I got rid of it in favor of a slightly more time-consuming french press, but I cut down my plastic reliance. Unfortunately, I still go buy coffee to go from my local downtown shop every day because I’m lazy. What I recommend for cutting down your plastic use would be to change out the Keurig for a french press if you like making coffee at home. There are no filters needed or anything plastic needed if you buy a metal and glass french press. For those who just cannot make the switch from coffee pods, look into eco-friendly options such as Tayst Coffee Pods. These pods are plastic-free and Keurig compatible. Finally, for those like me who love going out to get coffee at their local shop, ask about bringing in your own cup to reduce the plastic that they use, or inquire about them making the switch to more biodegradable materials for their cups, straws, etc. All of these will help you reduce plastic pollution a little at a time.

3. Cook more often to reduce plastic pollution.

A large percentage of plastic production is due to packaging materials. This includes takeout containers. When we eat out, we bring the rest home in a takeout container, which is usually placed in a doggy bag. Both of these are usually plastic. If we want to reduce the amount of packaging plastic that gets thrown out, just eat at home more often. Yes, takeout is fast and convenient. Cooking and eating at home are healthier and more eco-friendly. If you absolutely must eat out, be sure to request no plastic cutlery, ask for a non-plastic container if possible, or even see if they will let you bring your own container for leftovers. You might look strange bringing your glass food container to the restaurant, but at least you are doing your part to reduce plastic pollution.

4. Buy a reusable water bottle.

This one is a quick and easy solution for reducing your single-use plastic. If you want to reduce plastic pollution, stop buying water packs of bottled water at the store and invest in a reusable water bottle. You can typically find them made from glass and stainless steel, but stainless steel is my preference. Every year anywhere from 13 billion or more plastic bottles make their way into the ocean. That’s a big number we need to cut down. So go buy that reusable water bottle. If you don’t like your tap water, you can buy a filter to go with some reusable bottles, or you can look into buying water that is more eco-friendly than plastic, such as boxed water or water in aluminum cans.

5. Buy in bulk to reduce plastic pollution.

Everything in the universe boils down to math, or so that’s what scientists much smarter than I say. What I mean by this is numbers matter. In the case of reducing plastic pollution, I’m referring to single-use versus bulk buys. While it can sound wasteful to buy more of a product than you immediately need (and there is merit to that), buying in bulk cuts down on plastic waste. Let’s look at yogurt. One large container of yogurt uses less plastic for packaging than a 6 pack of single-serve yogurts. Making purchases such as this will help cut down on plastic waste. If you have a zero waste shop near you (not common but possible), shopping there can help reduce plastic waste as well.

6. Be mindful of microbeads.

Microbeads are tiny plastic balls in beauty products. You find them most often in face washes or exfoliating products. These microbeads are tiny enough to make it through water treatment processes, ending up in large water bodies where marine animals ingest them by mistake. If you simply cannot live without your exfoliating scrubs, opt for a natural exfoliator such as sand, oatmeal, or salt. There are plenty of natural options online that are reasonably priced and just as effective minus the plastic waste.

7. Go thrift shopping.

Yes, getting something new is awesome. The downside is new items come with all sorts of plastic packaging. For someone like me with an Amazon addiction, it’s a tough road to navigate. Thrift shopping for certain items such as clothing, electronics, toys, furniture, and other modern conveniences allows you to find something unique and often in decent condition without the plastic packaging that accompanies a new item bought online or in the store. Not only does this hack save a few bucks, but also helps the environment.

8. Swap out body wash for soap bars.

Another hack for reducing plastic pollution is swapping out plastic bottles of body wash for traditional bars of soap. Most bars of soap come in a paper or cardboard wrapping, so there is no plastic waste occurring. This is a simple hack but adds up over time if you think about how many bottles of body wash you buy every year.

9. Support a plastic tax to reduce plastic pollution.

This one might be harder to implement because you may have to lobby and write to your state representatives or local officials to get things in motion. However, this has proven to be effective in some countries. The UK has a tax on plastic use, and that extra money you have to pay up to use plastic is a great deterrent. The UK has noticed a decrease in plastic waste since implementing a surcharge, so it does work if it can be implemented.

10. Support a plastic ban.

This is just the more extreme version of the last hack, but some states already do this. States like New York, Hawaii, and Maine all have bans on single-use plastic bags. Every little bit of plastic use banned is a reduction in the plastic pollution that reaches our oceans and other vulnerable ecosystems.

11. Get reusable bags.

This is right up there with getting a reusable water bottle. The goal here is to cut down on single-use plastic in the long run. The average use of a plastic bag is twelve minutes. That is hardly justification for how much we use them and throw them out. Investing in some reusable bags for grocery shopping will help keep millions of tons of plastic bags out of the oceans every year.

12. Tell companies their plastic waste matters to you.

All of the hacks above are great for reducing your own plastic waste. However, manufacturers and corporations have a larger impact on global pollution. Therefore, we must put pressure on them to make changes. Tell them you want them to make sustainable choices if they want to keep your business. Write letters, reach out on social media, begin a blog, or start a petition. Find companies with products you like that do make environmentally conscious choices. If you are loyal to a specific company, push them hard to find alternatives to their products. For example, if you really love Chlorox products but hate plastic bottles, consider reaching out to Chlorox through various channels. Tell them to look into companies like BioBottles, which specialize in high-quality biodegradable plastic. Implore Chlorox to be part of the solution, not part of the problem.

BPA is a common acronym thrown around in the world of plastic production. BPA has also become a common talking point for people in recent years, particularly in discussing the negative impacts it has on our health. Who knew this three-letter word could cause so much trouble? BPA is scientifically known as Bisphenol A, which is a chemical compound used in the plastic production process. BPA can be found in plastic bottles, food containers, paper products, canned foods, and more. The reason BPA has been sliding under the radar in terms of health impacts is due to a disconnect between what research studies and government agencies tell us. 

BPA was first synthesized in 1891 by a Russian chemist named Aleksandr Dianin. However, in its genesis, BPA was considered useful as a synthetic version of the hormone estrogen but was precluded by an artificial estrogen called DES instead. So by the mid-1900s, we started using BPA for manufacturing plastics and resins due to the durability BPA added. Also, since plastic production in this manner was cheap, commercial use became widespread rapidly. Many are still exposed to toxic levels of BPA despite the evidence of its harmfulness to us. BPA is still quite common despite efforts in many countries to reduce BPA use to address health concerns. One of the biggest culprits is water bottles, especially disposable plastic water bottles. 

How does BPA get into your body?

For the average person, BPA exposure happens via diet. Because BPA is present in food and drink containers, BPA leaches into the foods and drinks themselves over time and then gets into our bodies when we eat and drink. There is even potential for BPA to leak into water supplies via pipe materials. The biggest factor determining the extent of BPA leaching depends on the temperature and age of the container. Time and heat break down BPA. This means if you are a fan of microwaving your food in plastic containers, make sure they are BPA-free. BPA can also get into your body via procedures done with BPA-contained tools such as dental and surgical equipment. Even babies are not safe since mothers can pass BPA to newborns via breast milk. 

What does BPA do to your body?

There are many ways BPA affects your health. It has been linked to numerous issues such as reproductive, neurological, immunity, and cardiovascular problems to name a few. Other problems associated with this toxic chemical are diabetes, asthma, and Alzheimer’s. More research is needed to substantially link BPA to some of these problems, but the evidence is starting to pile up as more research is conducted. 

A major reason people are concerned about BPA is that it is soluble. This means the bonds BPA has to plastic will break when liquid and/or heat are introduced. When this happens the chemical can seep into your food and drinks. It is important to understand the potential effects BPA has on your health so you can see the importance of finding BPA-free bottles and containers. Yes, BPA makes plastic strong, but at what cost? Alternatives to BPA plastic are being created every day. An example of a ground-breaking biodegradable plastic that works to have as little BPA as possible while still being durable can be found here. 

Toxic Side Effects of BPA

Infertility

One of the scariest effects BPA has on the body is its role in infertility. It is virtually impossible to avoid to some extent since it is in most packaging and is also an environmental contaminant. It is capable of mimicking estrogen. Once it enters a woman’s body, it can block or change the natural hormonal behavior. This change in hormonal behavior can impact the quality of eggs a woman produces. Men fare no better, as the compound has been shown to perpetuate sperm dysfunction. Men have also been seen to have problems with sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation issues in some studies. 

Fetal Development

Fetuses require a specific environment to have a healthy gestation. This environment is fragile, and specific conditions have to be met. Expecting mothers have to follow many rules to ensure their baby comes out as healthy as possible. They have to watch what they eat and what they drink, and they must abstain from vices such as smoking and consuming alcohol. Mothers now may need to think about the packages their foods come in too.

As women come into contact with certain plastics, BPA can find its way into the body and wreak havoc on not just the mother, but the fetus as well. We know BPA mimics estrogen and can block natural hormone function, so just imagine what that does to the fetus. BPA contamination in utero can lead to several birth defects such as atrophy of the testes, feminization of male fetuses, enlarged prostate size, and sperm alteration in male fetuses to name a few. 

Weight Problems

There is some evidence pointing to BPA as a contributor to obesity and other weight problems. This is mainly due to its ability to mimic hormones inside the body. This hormone behavior can do things like interfere with insulin and increase fat cell production. So if you’re trying to shed some unwanted pounds for beach season, avoid any food, drinks, or supplements in a plastic bottle. 

Heart Problems

There is some evidence suggesting exposure to this chemical can cause a change in the heart’s natural rhythm. Granted this was found in rats, so more research needs to be done, but there have at least been confirming studies telling us there is a link between heart issues and exposure to this compound. Best to err on the side of caution and avoid BPA. 

Diabetes

BPA has been shown to affect glucose metabolism. Since this chemical can mimic hormones, it is capable of creating insulin resistance. This directly affects your blood sugar levels. As a result, diabetes becomes a real threat. Add in the fact that many high fat and highly processed foods come in BPA-contaminated packaging, you have a recipe for disaster. 

Brain Function

There seems to be a difference of opinion between the FDA and medical studies as to the safety of current Bisphenol A exposure levels permissible. The FDA tells us that exposure of less than 2.25mg/lb of body weight (5mg/kg) is safe. Furthermore, the FDA states there is not enough concrete data to support an all-out ban on the chemical compound. Many in the medical field disagree. There was a study conducted that concluded BPA in the body prevents the removal of chloride from the central nervous system and can even interfere with how the brain regulates genes. 

Excessive chloride in the brain has been linked to diseases such as dementia and other cognitive disorders. BPA does not cause these diseases on its own, but its presence allows an increased likelihood for these diseases to develop. This means cutting out this chemical can reduce the risk of these diseases developing. 

Places You Find This Chemical

BPA-free bottles are becoming very popular, but there are so many other places this chemical lurkes. You can find the compound in:

• Computers
• Electronics
• Canned foods
• Toys
• PVC pipes
• Medical devices
• CDs and DVDs
• Plastic food packaging

This is far from an exhaustive list. BPA can also be found in epoxy resins to coat the inside of cans to avoid corrosion. 

Is BPA-Free Plastic The Solution?

Unfortunately, some BPA-free plastics are just as bad if not worse for you. One example would be Bisphenol S. Bisphenol S (BPS) is a common chemical compound used as an alternative to BPA. However, the estrogens released into the body from BPS are doing just as much damage to the hormonal system. To make matters worse, BPS and BPA can work together in the body to produce some significant damage to cells and genes. Some studies have found that a large percentage of Americans have both BPA and BPS in their urine. 

Who Can You Trust?

The takeaway is that BPA-free plastic is not really solving the problem. Free of this material or not, plastic is creating real damage both in the body and to the environment at large. While there are many alternatives coming along for plastics, the chemical alternatives are not helping. This is why BioBottles creates real biodegradable plastic using a special proprietary technology called PlasticIQ Technology, which is injected into plastics when being molded. This creates a plastic as durable as ever but will be treated as a natural food by microorganisms once it is discarded. Call us biased, but if you’re going to use plastic, use one that is FDA and Food Grade Compliant, European Union compliant, and CFIA compliant. 

What Can You Do?

To stay healthy, it is essential to try to limit your exposure to BPA. Here are a few things you can do each day to limit your contact with this harmful chemical.

• Cut down on plastic consumption. BPA-free or not, plastic is not only a health risk for you but detrimental to every ecosystem on the planet. It is made from petroleum, creates a massive carbon footprint to produce, and takes up to 450 years or more to degrade. Consider switching to glass or aluminum bottles when possible. Better yet, make the switch to BioBottles so you know the plastic will biodegrade.
• Stay away from processed foods. Make the switch to whole foods. Fresh produce, meats, and other real foods are far less packaged and processed than the snacks and convenience foods we tend to buy at the store. The fresher the food, the better. Avoid packaged and canned foods when possible to limit your BPA contact.
• Use BPA-free plastics if you use plastics. Yes, this will require you to do your research and look into the product and manufacturing to make sure what you are getting as a BPA alternative isn’t going to be as harmful or more harmful. In the long run this practice will keep you healthy though. 

How do you reduce your plastic consumption? Every day is a new opportunity to take measures to put your health first and focus on making smart choices for your future and the future of this beautiful rock we call home.