This July brings a fantastic opportunity to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle through a global movement, Plastic Free July, encouraging millions to rethink their plastic consumption. This month-long challenge motivates individuals and businesses to minimise plastic use, reducing environmental impact and fostering a cleaner, healthier planet. Even the smallest steps in combating plastic pollution can lead to significant change.
PG Paper proudly supports Plastic Free July, recognising that every effort, big or small, contributes to a significant impact. As a global pulp, paper and packaging merchandising company, providing sustainable alternatives, PG Paper is committed to reducing plastic waste worldwide.
Impacts of Plastic Waste Pollution
Plastic pollution, particularly from single-use items, is a pressing environmental issue. The United Nations Environment Programme highlights that “one million plastic bottles are purchased every minute globally, and up to five trillion plastic bags are used annually”. Understanding how reducing plastic consumption contributes to a plastic-free environment is crucial.
How Considering our Plastic Consumption Contributes to a Plastic-Free Environment
- Marine Life Protection: Plastic waste in the oceans poses a massive threat to marine animals due to them ingesting or getting entangled in plastic debris. By refusing single-use plastics or switching to alternative biodegradable materials, it greatly decreases the risk of plastic waste in the oceans.
- Reducing Carbon Footprint: The production and disposal of plastic contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Plastic doesn’t naturally decompose, continuing to pollute the environment long after its use.
- Support a Circular Economy: By embracing recyclable and reusable materials, we can promote a circular economy. This means the product is designed to be reused, repaired and recycled, ultimately minimising waste. A great example of this is opting to bring a refillable water bottle as opposed to regularly buying a single-use plastic bottle.
Sustainability and Plastic Waste Alternatives
At PG Paper, sustainability has been at the heart of our operations since our launch in 2003 by CEO Dr Poonam Gupta OBE. Our commitment to environmental responsibility was recognised in December 2019 when we were awarded an FSC® certificate and certified for Chain of Custody (COC).
The Forest Stewardship Council® is an international nongovernmental organisation that promotes environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests.
Biodegradable Packaging
Biodegradable packaging offers a significant environmental advantage as it naturally decomposes, leaving no harmful residues. Unlike non-biodegradable plastics, which can take centuries to break down, biodegradable materials decompose with the help of microorganisms, returning to their natural state and eliminating potential harm to the environment.
By prioritising sustainable practices and opting for plastic-free solutions, you encourage more companies to adopt eco-friendly practices. Many leading brands are transitioning to sustainable packaging solutions.
For more examples of innovations in paper packaging, check out our blog article From Plastic to Paper: Innovations in Paper Packaging – PG Paper.
Conclusion
Plastic Free July is more than just a challenge; it’s a movement toward a sustainable future. By participating, you take a crucial step in protecting the environment, conserving resources, and promoting a healthier planet for future generations.
For more information on how PG Paper can offer sustainable, plastic alternatives, contact us at info@pgpaper.com. Alternatively, visit our website to explore our exclusive product range.