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Navigating Europe’s restriction on microplastics

Envirotec Magazine

Legislators in Europe seem to be keeping a closer eye on microplastics, with the introduction of European Union (EU) Regulation 2023/2055 in September being a recent milestone. While microplastics are useful, scientists, governments and consumers now recognize them as a major threat to the environment.

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Tannins: A possible answer to microplastic pollution?

Envirotec Magazine

Scientists at UBC’s BioProducts Institute find that if you add tannins to a layer of wood dust, you can create a filter that traps virtually all microplastic particles present in water, according to recently reported research. per cent of plastic particles in a column of water, depending on plastic type. per cent to 99.9

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Graphene-based packaging presented as first truly biodegradeable and compostable alternative to plastic

Envirotec Magazine

UK biotech company Toraphene says it is preparing to unveil the world’s first truly biodegradable, compostable and commercially viable alternative to plastic packaging. It’s because they need specific manmade conditions to biodegrade, and many degrade into microplastics, which contaminate our oceans and food chain for centuries”.

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Study: Microplastics found in 90 per cent of leading cosmetics products

Business Green

Consumer goods giants continue to face growing scrutiny over their reliance on plastics in their packaging, with fresh research published yesterday having found microplastics in products manufactured by almost 90 per cent of the top-selling cosmetics brands. What we do know is that these products, used day-in day-out, contain plastic.

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Industry first claimed for “fully recyclable crisp packet”

Envirotec Magazine

It uses an innovative polymer, Hydropol, instead of conventional plastic. Furthermore, if unintentionally released into the natural environment, Hydropol – which is non-toxic and marine safe – will dissolve and subsequently biodegrade. It is already being used in products such as reusable, heat sealable paper mailing bags.

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Bio-based ropes claim eco-friendly aquaculture benefits

Envirotec Magazine

New “bio” ropes made from biomaterials have the potential to replace conventional plastics of fossil origin in mussel and algae cultivation, say the groups behind their development, who claim sustainability advantages including up to 34% carbon footprint reduction compared to ropes made from conventional plastics.

Plastics 264
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All Eyes on Marine Plastic From Orbit

Planet Pulse

New research combining Planet’s high cadence satellite imagery and other innovative technologies has successfully found the sources and pathways of plastic pollution in the Caribbean Sea. A boom is filled with plastic, and yet was only able to collect small amounts of it due to much of the debris passing it by. km2 to 0.77km2.

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