Home | Blog
In our fast-paced lifestyles, the health impacts surrounding disposable food and beverage containers are really starting to elevate; particularly with the use of plastic cups. More people today are now changing their behaviour and have begun using paper containers because they see a more health-conscious, environmentally sound, and sustainable direction.
Many factors could be motivating people to switch from plastic cups to paper containers, however, the most common concerns centers around the chemicals found in plastic, and the negative impacts on the environment when using plastics. With more businesses and consumers starting to make the change from plastic to paper containers, it is evident that there is a much safer, healthier environment for us all that paper containers provide.
In this blog, we will begin to understand why making the transition to paper containers is important!
If you are an individual who's choosing to use plastic cups in your own life, or see people use plastic cups frequently it can seem harmless initially, until you consider the health dangers of using a plastic container to hold food and beverages. One of the biggest health concerns surrounding plastic packaging is also toxic chemicals that could leach from the container to the contents of the container—especially when contained with heat applied to it or over time.
These are a few health risks of using plastic cups and plastic containers:
1. BPA and Phthalates: Endocrine Disruptors
These are two chemicals that are often found in plastic cups, containers and packaging. Both of these chemicals are known to disrupt our own hormonal systems in the body. For example, BPA is linked to impaired reproduction, developmental defects in children, increased risk of specific cancers, obesity, and hormone-disrupting effects.
2. PFAS Exposure: Lasting Harm
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are another type of chemical used commonly in plastic that makes plastic water, oil, and grease-resistant. Unfortunately, PFAS are known as "forever" chemicals because they stay indefinitely in the environment and in human bodies. PFAS have been associated with thyroid problems, immune system suppression, and damaged livers.
3. Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Small but Toxic
Plastic containers break down to produce particles smaller than dust, microplastics and nanoplastics, that can either be ingested or inhaled. Research has shown that these microplastic particles have been found in human blood, the human lungs, and the human placenta, which raises the question of the potential health implications of prolonged exposure to microplastics.
4. Chemical Exposure in the Production: Risk from Manufacturing
In addition, the manufacturing of plastics involves releasing nasty chemicals that are risks for factory workers and local communities when these hazardous materials enter the soil and waterways, adding to our long-standing pollution problems.
When compared to plastic, paper containers have many benefits. Paper comes from renewable resources and typically does not have the harmful chemicals found in plastic. Though paper is not without risk, paper is often safer in terms of human health and the environment.
Here are the reasons why paper containers are a healthier option:
1. No BPA and Phthalates
Most paper food containers, especially those lined with polylactic acid (PLA), are free of hazardous chemicals such as BPA and phthalates. This reduces the risk of exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can affect hormones and overall health.
2. Reduced PFAS Risk
While some paper containers may still use PFAS for moisture resistance, many manufacturers are now opting for PFAS-free coatings. The shift towards biodegradable options like PLA linings also helps minimize the health risks associated with these "forever chemicals."
3. Lower Microplastic Contamination
While PLA-lined paper containers may still release some microplastics, they show a significantly lower level of contamination compared to plastic containers. The risk of microplastic exposure is greatly reduced with paper, making it a safer choice for food packaging.
4. Cleaner Production Processes
Although paper production involves chemicals like bleach and pulping agents, it lacks the hazardous substances present in plastic resin manufacturing. Additionally, responsibly sourced paper can help reduce the environmental impact associated with deforestation and habitat destruction.
Aside from health concerns, the environmental impact of packaging materials is an important factor to consider. A life-cycle analysis reveals that paper generally fares better than plastic in terms of sustainability, though both materials have some environmental challenges.
Here’s a comparison of key environmental aspects:
1. Biodegradability and End-of-Life Impact
One of the most significant advantages of paper is its biodegradability. Paper containers break down naturally in weeks or months, reducing long-term pollution. In contrast, plastic containers can take hundreds of years to decompose and often break down into harmful microplastics during the process.
2. Resource Utilization and Renewability
Paper is made from renewable wood pulp, while plastic is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels. However, paper production requires significant water and energy. Sustainable sourcing practices, such as using FSC-certified paper, can help mitigate these environmental concerns.
3. Recyclability and Compostability
Paper containers are widely recyclable, although plastic linings (like polyethylene) can complicate the recycling process. Containers lined with biodegradable PLA are compostable, offering a more sustainable disposal option. Plastic cups, despite being recyclable, are often not recycled due to contamination and a lack of proper infrastructure.
Switching from plastic to paper containers benefits not only health and the environment but also offers practical advantages for various stakeholders.
For Consumers: Make Healthier and Greener Choices
Consumers can play a vital role in reducing the environmental footprint by choosing biodegradable paper containers with PLA linings and avoiding plastic when possible. Understanding local recycling and composting practices ensures proper disposal.
For Businesses: Meet Consumer Expectations for Sustainability
Sustainability is becoming a priority for many consumers. Businesses that switch to paper packaging can enhance their brand's reputation and appeal to eco-conscious customers. Educating customers about proper disposal and offering incentives for reusable containers can further improve sustainability efforts.
For Policymakers: Support the Shift to Sustainable Packaging
Governments can help by enacting policies that reduce single-use plastic consumption, supporting infrastructure for composting and recycling, and encouraging the development of industry-wide standards for labeling and disposal.
The shift from plastic to paper containers represents a crucial step towards healthier living and a more sustainable future. While paper production does have some environmental costs, it remains a safer and more renewable alternative to plastic, especially when designed with compostable linings like PLA. By supporting better design, responsible sourcing, and proper disposal infrastructure, paper-based solutions can greatly reduce both health risks and environmental harm. It’s time for businesses, consumers, and policymakers to take action and embrace this positive change.
