Plastics make products we use every day, like laundry baskets.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, plastics comprised 12 percent (30 million tons) of the solid waste generated in the U.S. in 2008. These plastics are in almost every kind of product, from containers to cars to credit cards. Plastics are made of petroleum or biomass products, and the plastics industry is the third largest manufacturer in the U.S., according to the the Society of the Plastics Industry. Environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics vary by the purpose of the product.
Glass
Glass pitchers and cups last longer than plastic ones.
Glass, which is made from melted sands, can be used in place of plastic in household products such as storage containers, dishes and cookware. Glass is much heavier than the plastics it replaces and is breakable, but it also lasts significantly longer than plastic.
Metal
Modern cars include plastic and metal parts.
Some plastics are used for structural functions, as in cars. In these instances, steel or other metals can be used as environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics. Steel water bottles are also available. Metal products are created from ores that are mined out of the ground, or from metal salvaged by specialty recyclers.
Wood
Decks can be constructed of wood planks or plastic composite materials.
Wood can be shaped and constructed into structural materials. Plastic alternatives to wood, such as containers, decking and home construction materials, can be replaced by real wood. Wood products come from trees; different kinds of trees offer a wide range of wood strengths.
Paper
Folded paper isn't just for pretty birds.
Paper can be used as a biodegradable alternative to plastic storage bags. Paper can also be folded into a multitude of shapes, such as cups or boxes, as an environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastics. Like wood, paper is made from trees; for the most earth-friendly alternative, trees must come from a sustainably managed forest. Paper products can also be recycled.
Cardboard
Cardboard is layered and pressed paper for increased strength.
Cardboard is layered and pressed paper. Although it is much stronger than paper, it is still biodegradable and recyclable. Cardboard can be used in packaging and, in its box form, as temporary storage containers.
Fabric
Canvas bags are a reusable alternative to plastic bags.
Fabrics made out of cotton, wool, hemp or other plant-based fibers offer permanent alternatives to plastics used to hold or cover objects. Fabric bags can replace plastic bags, and because fabric is more durable, it will last longer.
No Alternatives
Alternatives for plastic medical tubing are not available on the market.
Some plastic products do not have substitutes available as of 2010. Many of these products are used in the health care industry. One example is the flexible tubing used for intravenous delivery of medicines and for oxygen masks.
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