The use of disposable plastics in the packaging of food intended for human consumption has become increasingly popular, but it comes with a number of drawbacks. These plastics contain harmful compounds that can be released into the environment when they are improperly disposed of. This can lead to the contamination of bodies of water, as these compounds are non-biodegradable and can remain in the water for a long time. In addition, animals can be harmed if they consume these plastics, as they are not able to digest them.
The manufacturing process of plastics also involves the use of potentially dangerous chemicals, such as phthalates, which are used in the production of PVC. These chemicals have not been thoroughly assessed for their impact on human health and the environment, making their use a cause for concern. Glass greenhouses are becoming increasingly expensive and uneconomical for vegetable growers, making plastic films an attractive alternative. The use of plastic products has grown significantly in recent years, with many companies joining the industry and many more varieties of plastics being manufactured. So, is paper more sustainable than plastic? Cardboard does have some advantages over plastic, but plastic production is still around 381 million tons and 5 trillion or more pieces of plastic are polluting waters around the world.
To address this issue, very thin films are being developed that degrade into harmless by-products when exposed to UV rays or water. Companies believe that plastics are easier and cheaper to manufacture compared to other materials such as metals and stones, as they are produced from crude oil by-products and can be recycled. Plastic extrusion is the process in which plastic materials are converted from solids to liquids and then reconstituted into finished products.
