Researchers say that plastic product labeling needs to be changed to help consumers.
Plastic pollution is a growing global problem, with an increasingly complex mix of plastic found everywhere.
Simplistic labelling and low recycling rates are major barriers to tackling this issue.
In a new paper, experts from the University of Exeter and the University ofQueensland suggest a new internationally applicable labelling system that moves focus from recyclability to sustainable living and informs the public about plastic Additive Content.
The first author of the book said that they need to empower consumers to make more sustainable choices.
Instead of "yes-no" recycling labels, which are often misleading, a "sustainability scale" could take account of recyclability and other factors.
It would shift responsibility from consumers to regulators and plastic producers if packaging were required to carry specific directions for disposal.
The industry must be responsible for clear, accurate and accessible instructions on how to dispose of plastic items because they are complex and confusing.
The same is true for the chemicals used in plastic. Chemicals are added to the plastic to give it certain properties.
It would be a major step to inform the public and help them make decisions regarding the environment and human health.
The researchers stress that their recommendations should not detract from the urgent need to use less plastic.
368 million tonnes of plastic is produced each year.
Estimates of recycling rates are vastly different. Germany recycles more plastic waste than the European average.
The USA recycles 8%, while China recycles 25%.
The recommendations for a sustainable scale are designed to reduce some of the confusion around plastic disposal.
The ultimate goal is to protect the environment and human health from the harmful effects of plastic waste.
Professor Kevin Thomas, from The University of QUEENSLAND'sQueensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences and Minderoo Centre for Plastic and Human Health, said that they hope that their recommendations initiate a reassessment of plastics labelling and that implementation of a sustainable scale will allow individuals to make informed decisions.
This is just one small step towards helping the environment.
There is a coffee cup dilemma.
Speaking about consumer confusion, Burrows gave an example of a coffee cup made of PLA.
There are separate processes for many such cups.
It depends on the composition of the cup and whether local facilities are able to process PLA. It might not be suitable for your recycling bin.
Many such cups can only be broken down in an industrial composter, not in a garden compost heap. It will end up in a landfill if thrown in general waste.
If someone uses one of these cups, they should put the green recycling bin and general waste bin in the same place.
The answer may depend on several factors not usually indicated.
Our suggestions for a new labelling system based around a sustainable scale are designed to tackle this confusion.
The University of Bath was part of the research team.
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The materials were provided by the University of Exeter. Content can be edited for style and length.
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