5 Misconceptions About Plastics You’ve Been Greenwashed to Believe

5 Misconceptions About Plastics You’ve Been Greenwashed to Believe

Staff

Plastic has become a contentious topic in recent years. With a multitude of information swirling around, it’s easy to be misled by myths and misconceptions. Knowing the reality behind these common beliefs can help you make informed decisions on using plastics in your home or business. 

We make hundreds of decisions daily and wonder about something like, “How does this pack of 13-gallon trash bags influence the world?”.  We hope this article will help you in your decisions, so let’s explore five common misconceptions about plastics perpetuated by greenwashing tactics:

1. All Plastics Are Non-Recyclable

A widespread belief is that all plastics end up in landfills or the ocean, never breaking down and wreaking havoc on ecosystems. However, this isn’t entirely true. Many types of plastics are recyclable, including PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and HDPE (high-density polyethylene), which are commonly used in beverage bottles and milk jugs, respectively.

Recycling systems, though imperfect, are continuously improving. Advances in technology and better sorting mechanisms are making recycling a wider variety of plastics easier. The key challenge lies in the proper collection and sorting of recyclable materials. By being diligent about recycling and understanding which plastics can be processed, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

2. Bioplastics Are the Ultimate Green Solution

Bioplastics, made from renewable biomass sources like cornstarch, are often marketed as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics. However, not all bioplastics have the same properties. Some decompose under industrial composting conditions, while others require specific conditions to break down and may still contribute to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions if they end up in landfills​​. Additionally, bioplastics production can compete with food production, using valuable agricultural land and resources.

3. Ocean Plastics Mainly Come from Offshore Dumping

Many people believe that most ocean plastic pollution comes from illegal ship dumping. Most ocean plastics originate from land-based sources, including litter from beaches, streets, and improper waste management systems​. Items like single-use plastic bags, bottles, and food wrappers are major contributors. Addressing plastic pollution requires reducing single-use plastics and improving waste management practices on land.

4. Recycling Is the Best Solution to Plastic Pollution

Recycling is essential to managing plastic waste but is not the ultimate solution. The complexity of recycling processes and the limited recyclability of certain plastics mean that much of the plastic waste still ends up in landfills or the environment. Moreover, the emphasis on recycling can sometimes divert attention from the more critical need to reduce plastic production and consumption in the first place​​. Reducing the overall use of plastics, especially single-use items, is a more effective strategy for mitigating plastic pollution.

5. Plastic Neutrality Can Offset Environmental Impact

The concept of plastic neutrality, where companies offset their plastic use by funding the removal of an equivalent amount of plastic waste, is gaining popularity. However, this approach can be misleading. Not all plastics have the same environmental impact, and the offsetting process does not address excessive plastic production and consumption​. 

Additionally, the logistics of plastic credits and the effectiveness of such programs are often questioned. A more sustainable approach involves reducing plastic use at the source and promoting a circular economy where materials are reused and recycled effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while efforts to manage plastic waste through recycling and bioplastics are important, they are not standalone solutions. A holistic approach that includes reducing plastic production, improving waste management systems, and increasing consumer awareness is essential for effectively addressing the plastic pollution crisis. By debunking these misconceptions, we can better navigate the complexities of plastic use and make more informed, sustainable choices.

The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.