In recent years, in accordance with EU rules, plastic plates, cutlery, cups and straws have been completely phased out, replaced with alternatives made of paper, which is supposed to be more environmentally friendly and easier to degrade, but according to recent research, can be just as problematic as its plastic counterparts. .
The paper cups they use are lined with polylactic acid (PLA) to make them more durable in wet conditions, which is widely used as a biodegradable alternative to traditional plastic liners. However, according to the researchers, this substance can also be toxic.
Earlier, specialists at the University of Gothenburg also came to the conclusion that A The PLA isn’t green either, and now another research group is doing the same thing a result receipt. The team used moth mosquito larvae to determine the potential effects of paper cups on aquatic life. Chemicals dissolved during decomposition slowed the growth of the larvae.
Meanwhile, another research The researchers studied the effect of paper straws and found perfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS (permanent chemical). The Belgian researchers tested 39 different straws, including paper, bamboo, metal and glass. Paper straws were found to be the most likely to contain PFAS. For straws, the researchers recommend metal and glass.
