Clingfilm has arguably revolutionised the food industry and has made it much easier for individuals to transport food and to preserve and save food without throwing it away. Preserving food is good for the environment as it means less goes to landfill where it breaks down and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. However, Clingfilm itself has harmful effects on the environment. This is why the introduction of the UK’s first 100% biodegradable cling film by Baco, called Baco BioWrap, is such an important step forward. Baco claims that BioWrap will break down within 2 years, which is quicker than natural materials such as straw and twigs [1].
Why is it important to use biodegradable plastics?
It is estimated that in the UK alone, we use over 4 million tonnes of plastic a year and around 35% of that is used in packaging [2]. The length of time that it takes for plastics to break down is dependent upon what type of plastic it is, but to give an idea, the everyday plastic bag can take over 1000 years [2]. This is only an estimate, as we have not been around long enough to put an exact figure on it [2] but the fact that they don’t break down in a lifetime is enough to cause concern and harm to the environment.
How is Baco BioWrap different?
The difference between Baco BioWrap and normal Clingfilm is that Baco BioWrap is made from a controlled-life, oxo-biodegradable polyethylene and a natural prodegradant is added to the product which means that micro-organisms can consume the low molecular mass products as a food source [1]. This is what makes it biodegradable in the presence of heat, light and oxygen.
Baco BioWrap can be used in the same way as conventional Clingfilm, i.e. in the fridge, freezer and microwave ovens to protect and cover food [1]. Once opened, the product should be used within 12 months . For more information visit Baco’s website at [1].
Explore our full range of eco friendly products, including kitchen products, here at Energy Saving Warehouse.
References
[1] http://www.baco.co.uk/products/biowrap.shtml
[2] http://www.greenlaunches.com/recycle/the-problems-of-plastic-recycling.php
