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Nano plastics and the dangers of them

You may have heard about microplastics, but did you realize there are also nanoplastics?

But what are they, and why are they so dangerous? Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about nanoplastic pollution.

What is a microplastic?

Microplastics are particularly minute bits of plastic debris that form due to the dumping and breakdown of consumer and industrial waste.

To be called a microplastic, the material must be less than 5mm long, whether created intentionally or due to a larger piece of plastic breaking away.

Microplastics are a contaminant, and their toxic composition is hazardous to human and animal health. Some microplastics contain carcinogenic or mutagenic compounds related to human cancer and DNA damage.

Plastic degrades extremely slowly (sometimes over hundreds of thousands of years), making microplastics challenging to dispose of once discovered. 

What are nanoplastics?

The significant distinction between nanoplastics and microplastics is the size of the particle.

Nanoplastics are tiny, nearly invisible bits of plastic that are produced as a result of the disposal of plastic products. They are typically considered in terms of trash and pollution, particularly in the marine environment, where they are most ubiquitous.

Micro and nano plastics are utilized as abrasive agents for exfoliation in personal care products such as face and body washes and masks, and they are also created as cheap filler material. Most nanoplastics, on the other hand, are the product of the slow fragmentation of plastic trash in the environment.

When plastic is mishandled and exposed to sunlight, wind, or water, it degrades, and micro or nanoplastics form.

Because these particles are so light and because of their widespread detection, scientists believe nanoplastics have been dispersed around the world in part by air currents. Early research indicates that they may also be emitted by secondary sources such as urban surfaces and soils.

Nanoplastics can also quickly enter the food chain. When a plastic object, such as a fishing net, degrades in fish-inhabited oceans and lakes, the particles are consumed by the organisms. Many of us then eat fish or seafood, which means we swallow microplastics from the sea when we eat.

Newer data reveals that people are inhaling nanoplastics – it is estimated that humans are inhaling up to 10,000 nanoplastics daily.

Why are nanoplastics dangerous?

Nanoplastics, when released into the environment, have a devastating influence on every ecosystem component.

Plastics are composed of numerous complex compounds, which are advantageous for their malleability but detrimental to human and animal health.

The most prevalent type of microplastic found in the environment is polyethylene, which is used in plastic bags and packaging. However, PET, which is used in plastic bottles, is also frequently observed.

Early human toxicological studies have shown that nanoplastics harm cell survival. Ingestion of microplastics has been proven in studies on marine life to alter growth and delay development. There have also been reports of malformations and subcellular alterations.

Avoiding nano plastics

It is impossible to eliminate micro and nano plastics due to their small size and prevalence in most ordinary objects. However, you may choose your products and foods wisely to reduce your contribution to nano plastic pollution while safeguarding your health.

  • Using a water filter
  • Buy more organic clothing
  • Avoid warming food in plastic 

Are you considering sustainably recycling commercial waste in your business? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We look forward to assisting the environment as well as your company.

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Bamboo Packaging

One of the biggest industries in the world, the makeup and cosmetics economy is estimated to be $716 billion by 2025. Many customers prefer to shop online for products, resulting in the makeup industry being heavily impactful on eCommerce.

Due to the need for long-distance shipments in eCommerce businesses, packaging companies often use plastic for these shipments; the makeup and cosmetics industry relies on eCommerce for many sales, so makeup companies frequently pack 120 units annually.

If businesses continue to use plastic units for shipping, landfill taxes will continue to increase. Research on alternatives to plastic mainly focuses on paper, bamboo, and bioplastics. 

Makeup

Various types of makeup include dry powders, waxy items like lipsticks, and liquids like nail paint. As a result, the cosmetics packaging market is complicated and diverse, with a strong emphasis on compact, mostly plastic and glass containers. These containers produce excessive packaging for a frequently minimum product — just a few milliliters for nail polish, mascara, and other products — often contains very little.

Additionally, the packaging used for individual units is only a tiny portion of the overall packaging waste, including large cardboard boxes and cushioning (foam and polystyrene) that may be utilized for wholesale delivery.

Due to the growth of eCommerce, we now purchase more items online, including different types of cosmetics.

Skincare

Some may argue that switching to bamboo skincare packaging is more accessible than switching to bamboo cosmetics packaging. Many skincare products come in much more uniform containers with cardboard or readily recyclable exterior packaging (for example).

Again, the difficulty is making the most of bamboo rather than using it only as an ornament without creating sustainable packaging. For instance, it’s typical to see “bamboo packaging” refer to plastic jars with bamboo caps.

Consumers have become more savvy about deceptive marketing tactics and when a company genuinely tries to use eco-friendly packaging and other initiatives.

By lowering packing costs, firms have a concrete opportunity to increase profits. 

Bamboo

Bamboo is a perennial blooming plant that is evergreen. According to science, it comprises the most prominent grasses on Earth and belongs to the Poaceae family of grasses’ Bambusoideae subfamily.

Three taxonomic types of bamboo:

  • Arundinarieae (Temperate Woody Bamboos)
  • Bambuseae (Tropical woody bamboo)
  • Olyreae (Herbaceous bamboo species)

The sheath, which naturally sheds as a plant age and becomes a mature plant, is typically used to create disposable bamboo packaging. The sheaths are gathered, boiled, laminated, and then formed into the proper shape by pressing them into molds.

Benefits to Bamboo

Powerful and Flexible material

Bamboo is resistant to tension or “pulling” forces because it has impressive tensile strength—even higher than steel.

Due to its flexibility, it can be shaped into various shapes that are protective of the things contained within and gentle to them.

Additionally to other sectors, this is advantageous for bamboo cosmetics packaging.

Due to bamboo packaging materials’ vast recyclability, consumer electronics company Dell has used bamboo packaging to protect sensitive components during delivery, including the “chasing arrows” recycling emblem.

Biodegradable

There are several definitions of biodegradability, but generally speaking, biodegradable packaging materials must decompose swiftly in landfills or the open environment with no toxic leftovers.

There are several environmental advantages of bamboo. It establishes an intricate root system that aids in organically cleaning the water table, resulting in purer water sources downstream from the bamboo plantation.

Additionally, it uses less water during processing. All other water lost during manufacturing may be captured and utilized again, and since the processed bamboo can be air-dried in warm weather, little to no energy is required. The only water lost during production is due to evaporation.

Additionally, bamboo can trap carbon. Although estimates vary wildly, common data indicates that a single bamboo plant may store about 2 tonnes of carbon annually. At the same time, some sources claim that a hectare (metric unit) can sequester up to 17 tonnes.

Is Bamboo Efficient?

Bamboo production is quite efficient in comparison to other materials. Bamboo grows new leaves on its severed stems, which supply extra energy via the root system to accelerate the growth of new shoots.

With a carbon capture capability ten times that of trees, it’s difficult to argue against growing more bamboo, whether as a packaging material or a carbon sink.

Finally, bamboo is high in silicate acid, so it isn’t easy to burn. This is excellent news for commercial bamboo plantations, especially given climate change, rising global temperatures, and the increased risk of wildfires.

Are you thinking of recycling commercial waste in a sustainable way in your company? Give us a call. We look forward to helping the environment and your company.

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Small Business Recycling

Commercial recycling is an important practice that helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint, save money on waste disposal, and contribute to a more sustainable future. For small businesses, adopting recycling practices can be a challenge due to limited resources, lack of knowledge about the recycling process, and inadequate space to store recyclable materials. However, with some simple steps, small businesses can start a successful recycling program that benefits both their bottom line and the environment.

The first step in establishing a recycling program is to assess the types of materials that the business generates and determine what can be recycled. Common recyclable materials include paper, cardboard, plastics, and metals. Once the types of materials have been identified, the business can work with a local recycling company to set up a recycling program. Many recycling companies provide a free estimate for recycled materials and offer pickup services, making it easy for businesses to dispose of their recyclables.

To encourage employees to participate in the recycling program, it is important to provide education and training on recycling practices. This can include providing information on what can and cannot be recycled, labeling recycling bins to make it clear what materials go where, and establishing guidelines for recycling in the workplace. By involving employees in the recycling process, businesses can increase the success of their recycling program and create a culture of sustainability in the workplace.

Another important aspect of commercial recycling is waste reduction. Businesses can reduce waste by implementing practices such as reducing paper usage, encouraging the use of reusable containers, and composting organic waste. These practices not only reduce the amount of waste generated by the business, but they can also save money on waste disposal fees. In addition to reducing waste, businesses can also consider purchasing products made from recycled materials. By supporting the use of recycled materials, businesses can help create a market for recycled goods, further supporting the recycling industry.

Finally, businesses should monitor and evaluate their recycling program on an ongoing basis to ensure that it is meeting their needs and achieving their goals. This can include tracking the amount of materials recycled, assessing the cost savings from reduced waste disposal fees, and soliciting feedback from employees and customers.

Commercial recycling is an important practice for small businesses that want to reduce their environmental impact, save money on waste disposal, and contribute to a more sustainable future. By assessing the types of materials generated, establishing a recycling program, educating employees, reducing waste, purchasing products made from recycled materials, and monitoring progress, businesses can successfully implement a recycling program that benefits both their business and the environment.

OVP Recycling is a South Florida-based commercial recycling company that provides recycling services for plastic, paper, aluminum, pallets, and other recyclable materials. Not only will small businesses save money from commercial recycling, they can also generate additional revenues by selling the recycled material to OVP Recycling.

If you are thinking about recycling your commercial waste or starting a recycling and sustainability program in your company, give us a call. We look forward to helping you protect the environment.

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Plastics Recycling Trends 2022

In recent years, eco-friendly and sustainability have become popular phrases used in many corporations to tout their environmental awareness and woo consumers through marketing campaigns and brands. Several of these corporations are not necessarily practicing what they preach. They slip the right words in but do not follow up with action. By embracing these buzzwords, the companies attract environmentally sensitive consumers while making themselves appear socially responsible. But to be truly serious, businesses must begin practicing sound recycling practices to back up their campaign claims.

For the companies that attempt to protect the environment, they face a unique challenge in their packaging. Historically, plastic has been used as the go-to packaging material to protect our food and keep it fresh. There are alternatives to plastics, such as paper, glass, aluminum, and steel, but various studies confirm that plastic is more efficient because it is stronger and lightweight. All of this means plastic is better than the alternatives at shipping more products at a lower weight when it comes to shipping products.  In addition, since packaging with plastics uses less material, it also uses less energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and waste. In addition, food waste accounts for a substantial amount of methane emissions which is 21 times more potent than C02. Using plastic packing reduces this emission by keeping food longer, thus preventing food waste and methane emissions. 

With the growth of eCommerce and people purchasing more and more products online, plastic packaging will stay around for a long time; therefore, preserving our food and protecting our environment must work hand in hand. The solution is to improve our recycling activities.

So, if you are a manufacturer, retailer, wholesaler, or even administration service business and have not yet started recycling, it is time. Take this first step to contributing to a clean environment, reducing pollution, and protecting this planet we call earth. If you have already adopted recycling strategies, great; keep it going.

We want to earn your business at OVP Recycling. If you are looking for a reputable, easy to deal with commercial recycling company, call now to Get a Free Estimate for your recycled material.

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How to increase recycled material levels in the US market?

Experts believe that 2021 could be a period of recovery for domestic recycling markets as municipal recycling systems get back to pre-pandemic operations and MRFs rebuild partnerships with plastics manufacturers and brand owners willing to integrate higher percentages of recycled content into their products. Recyclers are still expanding operations and investing in domestic markets for items like paper and plastics that traditionally were recycled in China and other countries that have enacted similar import bans.

In its recent draft national recycling strategy, the EPA includes priorities such as reducing contamination in the recycling stream, improving domestic markets for recyclables, and increasing efficiency by connecting industry operators with tools and funding they need. The passage of Save Our Seas 2.0 which was signed by the White House in December, offers $55 million in funding each year through 2025 for improving “local post-consumer materials management,” that includes municipal recycling. If your company has not considered recycling in a more strategic way now is the best time to start. Whether you are producing excessive waste in metals, paper, pallets, and plastics, you are now able to more seriously contribute to saving the planet and creating more jobs.

OVP Recycling specializes in recycling paper, plastics, metal, and pallets. Our market area includes all of South Florida, Miami Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach, and all surrounding cities.

Call 954-572-7534

Contact us now to get a free consultation and quote for your recycled materials.

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New Guidance For Recycling Plastics

The Plastics Industry Association has announced industry guidance designed to ensure packaging made with postconsumer resin meets and exceeds compliance requirements with several U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations related to food-contact materials (FCM). The guidance document was developed over a two-year process that combined association member companies’ industry insight with the association’s regulatory expertise. 

“As recyclers know, federal requirements for post-consumer recycled plastics usage in food-contact applications can be extremely complex,” says George Southworth, senior director of the Plastics Industry Association Processors and Brand Owners Advisory Group.“This guidance document is the result of a collaborative effort with our valued members and will provide clarity in understanding and writing compliance statements for recycled material in food packaging.”

“We are a company that values both community citizenship and innovations that improve customer and consumer experiences, so we’ve been actively advocating for expanding access to high-quality recycled plastics,” says Phil Berrier, Product Safety & Compliance and Analytical Services leader at Printpack, Inc., Atlanta. “The guidance we created will further open supply chain collaboration for food-safe recycled materials so food packaging converters can keep up with downstream demand and brand owners can confidently promote their products.”

Key elements of the guidance document address:

  • food contact status;
  • microbiological contamination;  
  • kosher and halal compliance; and
  • nanotechnology.

The guidance document is a product of the Washington-based association’s Food, Drug and Cosmetic Packaging Materials Committee (FDCPMC). This public policy committee is comprised of company representatives from all segments of the plastics industry, working to harmonize regulatory policy that also supports economic growth and global trade in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors.

OVP Recycling is proud to support this new guidance and encourage our valued clients to review the document and ensure that your practices are in compliance to help keep our planet safe as we practice safe commercial recycling and follow the newest practices to recycle plastics.