#PET bottle recycling process explained

[dasset-engineering]

Best Manufacturer & Exporter of Self Tapping Screws in India: Dasset Engineering 

Self-tapping screws are essential components in various industries, known for their ability to create their own threads as they are driven into materials. In India, one company stands out for its excellence in manufacturing and exporting these vital fasteners—Dasset Engineering. Renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Dasset Engineering has established itself as a leader in the self-tapping screw industry. 

Why Self-Tapping Screws? 

Before delving into Dasset Engineering’s contributions, it is crucial to understand why self-tapping screws are so valuable. Unlike traditional screws that require pre-drilled holes, self-tapping screws can create threads as they are driven into materials. This feature makes them incredibly versatile and efficient, reducing the need for additional tools and saving time during assembly. They are widely used in automotive, construction, electronics, and woodworking industries due to their convenience and reliability. 

Dasset Engineering: A Legacy of Excellence 

Dasset Engineering has built a strong reputation over the years as a top manufacturer and exporter of self-tapping screws. Their success can be attributed to several key factors: 

Quality Assurance 

Quality is the cornerstone of Dasset Engineering’s operations. The company employs stringent quality control measures at every stage of production, from raw material selection to the final inspection. Their self-tapping screws are made from high-grade materials, ensuring durability, strength, and corrosion resistance. This commitment to quality ensures that their products meet and exceed industry standards, providing customers with reliable and long-lasting solutions. 

Advanced Manufacturing Facilities 

Dasset Engineering boasts state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities equipped with the latest machinery and technology. These advanced facilities enable the company to produce a wide range of self-tapping screws in various sizes, designs, and specifications. Their manufacturing process is streamlined and efficient, allowing for high-volume production without compromising on quality. 

Innovative Designs 

Innovation is at the heart of Dasset Engineering’s product development strategy. The company continually invests in research and development to create innovative screw designs that cater to the evolving needs of different industries. Their self-tapping screws are designed for optimal performance, with features such as sharp cutting edges, precise threading, and superior holding power. This dedication to innovation ensures that Dasset Engineering remains at the forefront of the industry. 

Customization Options 

Understanding that different projects have unique requirements, Dasset Engineering offers customization options for their self-tapping screws. Customers can specify dimensions, materials, coatings, and other parameters to meet their specific needs. This flexibility makes Dasset Engineering a preferred choice for businesses looking for tailored solutions. 

Global Reach 

As a leading exporter, Dasset Engineering has a strong presence in international markets. Their self-tapping screws are in high demand worldwide, thanks to their reputation for quality and reliability. The company has a robust logistics network that ensures timely delivery to customers across the globe, making them a trusted partner for businesses in various industries. 

Customer-Centric Approach 

Dasset Engineering’s success is also driven by its customer-centric approach. The company prioritizes customer satisfaction by offering excellent after-sales support, technical assistance, and responsive service. Their team of experts is always ready to assist customers with their queries and provide guidance on the best solutions for their projects. 

Conclusion 

Dasset Engineering stands out as the best manufacturer and exporter of self-tapping screws in India, thanks to its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Their advanced manufacturing facilities, innovative designs, and customer-centric approach make them a trusted partner for businesses across various industries. Whether you are in the automotive, construction, electronics, or woodworking sector, Dasset Engineering offers reliable and high-performance self-tapping screws that meet your needs and exceed your expectations. 

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Visualizing PET's degradation by bacterial enzymes

The rigidity, transparency and hardness of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) make it one of the most valuable plastics for the manufacture of plastic bottles, packaging and other single-use products. However, these characteristics make it highly persistent in the environment, to the point that a plastic PET bottle may take several hundred years to degrade in the ocean.

At the molecular level, PET, and all plastics, have a polymeric structure made up of tens of thousands of repetitions of small subunits called monomers. In the last decades, the degradation of PET by a kind of bacterial enzymes called polyester hydrolases (or PETases) has been regarded with much hope, as it is considered as a potential eco-friendly method for recycling plastic waste and recover the original monomers, thus enabling an effective circular-material economy loop.

Now, a new study led by the Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC) and the University of Leipzig (Germany) has revealed the details, at the molecular level, of the PET degradation process by these enzymes.

"The results of our work can be very useful for the industry, as this is the first time we can 'see' the motion picture of the process. Also, they pave the way to design new enzymes capable of breaking down the plastic into its original soluble components with high efficiency," explains Francesco Colizzi, a leading author of the study.

Read more.

[namansharma0950]

From Bottles to Brilliance: Unveiling the R-PET Recycling Revolution in the Polymer World!

Did you ever think about what happens to a plastic bottle of water after you tossed it? Regrettably, an amount of plastic that is enough to fill a football field two times per day ends up in landfills and oceans, creating major environmental issues. However, the good news is that this! Recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) stands as an eco-friendly alternative to this.

This blog takes a deeper look into a particular plastic, recycled PET (r-PET), and explains how it can change the way we perceive plastic. We'll show why old plastic bottles are given a reprieve and made into soft fleece jackets, or sturdy car parts.

Are you prepared to discover the reasons behind the amazingness of recycled PET? We'll touch on the environmental advantages of plastic recycling, from cutting down the volume of trash that ends up in landfills to saving valuable resources. And to top it off, we'll cover the latest advancements in the recycled PET field, showing how it's being employed to make first-rate goods for numerous industries. Regardless of whether you are a concerned consumer or just curious about eco-living, this blog is for you. It's time we examine what recycled PET can do and how it can make a better tomorrow!

Introduction

PET, or polyethylene terephthalate, stands as a ubiquitous and favored material for plastic packaging across the globe, enjoying widespread usage. Unfortunately, its prevalence extends to oceanic waste, marking it as a dominant contributor to marine pollution. Despite this, the disposal of used PET bottles shouldn't be perceived as waste due to their complete recyclability. Through a straightforward process involving heating and molding, PET can be transformed into a myriad of shapes, rendering it a versatile and environmentally friendly packaging solution. Unlike its counterparts like glass and aluminum, PET boasts a notably low melting point, facilitating its conversion into a closed-loop or circular economy model. This circularity underscores its potential for sustainable reuse, offering a pathway towards mitigating plastic pollution and promoting responsible resource management. Consequently, PET emerges not only as a popular choice for packaging but also as a beacon of hope for transitioning towards more sustainable consumption and production practices, fostering a harmonious relationship between human activity and the natural environment. By recycling PET bottles, we effectively diminish landfill waste, curtail the consumption of non-renewable resources, and minimize water usage compared to the production of new plastic pellets. Additionally, the recycling process demands fewer chemicals to enhance the properties of recycled plastic items. Even when plastic becomes non-recyclable, it retains its calorific value, rendering it a viable fuel source. The surge in environmentally conscious consumers amplifies the demand for recycled goods, coinciding with a burgeoning global population that intensifies the need for resources. Through recycling, we mitigate reliance on Earth's finite raw materials, maximizing the utility of already extracted resources and fostering sustainability.

Manufacturing Process

The standard procedure for recycling PETinvolves a water-based washing method to eliminate contaminants such as dirt, labels, and adhesive residues from post-consumer PET materials. Illustrated in Figure, the conventional PET recycling process begins with resizing post-consumer PET bottles into flakes. Common cleaning agents used include caustic soda, typically constituting 2–3% of the solution, along with detergents. Subsequently, the mechanical reprocessing stage involves converting PET waste into granules through conventional extrusion after the removal of contaminants. Following this, a series of processes including collection/segregation, cleaning and drying, chipping/sizing, coloring/agglomeration, and palletization/extrusion precede the manufacturing of the final product. Tertiary recycling, a critical phase, entails the depolymerization of PET to yield monomers or other valuable low molecular weight compounds. Repolymerization can then utilize these monomers to regenerate the initial polymer, representing a significant opportunity for enhanced profitability and sustainability.

Step 1: Remove the contaminants

• The initial phase of the super clean process involves thorough removal of all contaminants adhered to PET surfaces, followed by re-extrusion to form pellets. Solid-state polycondensation (SSP) technology is subsequently employed to achieve deeper purification of PET. SSP operations can be conducted via batch or continuous processes, with key parameters including residence time, temperature, vacuum, and inert gas stream. • Typically, solid-state reactions require a residence time of 6–20 hours within a temperature range of 180–220°C, depending on the desired viscosity of the PET material. Through the re-extrusion process, recycling PET offers advantages such as uniform pellet size akin to virgin PET and homogeneous distribution of contaminants in post-consumer PET.

Step 2: Mechanical Recycling

• Mechanical recycling offers a solution for repurposing various forms of PET waste, including packaging, films, containers, sheets, and fibers used for insulation and floor coverings. The current technology predominantly employs dry processes for the initial stages, eliminating the need for washing water. • The recycling process encompasses several steps, including classification, sorting, washing, drying, size reduction, melt filtration, reforming, and compacting, tailored to accommodate the diverse nature of source plastic materials. • Pretreatment begins with sorting, optimizing conditions to screen waste based on particle size, fines, and material weight, as well as separating waste plastics by shape, distinguishing between 2D and 3D particles. • Subsequently, the material undergoes separation into two streams: one for large particle streams, including light, ferrous, aluminum, and plastic particles, and the other for smaller particle streams, primarily targeting ferrous and aluminum particles. Rotary screening is employed in this stage to refine the separation process further.

Step 3: Crushing

• Following sorting, the subsequent stage involves crushing the PET bottles, a process that categorizes them based on their properties while simultaneously reducing their particle size. • However, this method generates a significant quantity of fine particles and non-sortable materials, potentially impacting product quality. An effective example of this process utilizes slicing machines such as the Valley beater and the disc refiner, where PET waste undergoes intermittent sliding contact with multiple knife edges. • This process typically lasts up to 10 minutes, with an average residence mixing time of one minute or less for continuous operation of a disc refiner. • Counter comb shredders are frequently employed for the crushing of raw materials, particularly in sectors dealing with bedrocks or waste and recycling. These machines feature a primary rotatably driven comminution roller, equipped with comminution apparatus such as teeth, cutting edges, and movable hammers mounted on its cylindrical shell or roller body. The comminution process initiates with the counter apparatus of the comb, typically designed resembling a comb beam, spanning at least the entire width of the comminution roller to securely hold the device in place.

Step 4: Washing and Decontamination

• The PET flakes undergo a washing process to eliminate ground-up lids, rings, and labels, as well as other contaminants like glue. Following washing, they enter a high-temperature decontamination phase where migrated post-consumer substances and flavors are extracted. These substances can migrate into the material due to improper use of PET bottles for non-food liquids. • Additionally, during this step, the mechanical properties are restored to levels comparable to virgin material. Depending on the recycling technology, the material may be melted either before or after this stage, with solid contaminants being separated by a melt filter.

Step 5: Pelletizing

• Following washing and grinding, PET flakes undergo drying before being melted into long strands of PET plastic, which are subsequently cut into small pellets. • Part of the recycling process is also converting the melt into spherical, crystalline-PET-pellets for the production of new PET bottles.

Step 6: Reforming

• The recycled PET pellets are then transported to manufacturers within the packaging industry, where they are prepared for the production of new bottles. Once heated, the pellets are molded into the desired size and shape, rendering them ready for reuse, thereby completing the bottle-to-bottle recycling loop. • While the bottle-to-bottle loop represents the optimal recycling method for PET bottles, it is not always feasible. In cases where the collected plastic does not meet the required quality standards, the recycled PET undergoes a different process. It is ground into flakes, washed, and then subjected to heat, resulting in stretched fibers utilized in recycled polyester. These fibers find application in various products such as seat belts, bags, carpets, shoes, and clothing.

Applications of R-PET

1. Beverage Bottles: Plastic bottles produced from R-PET are usually used to make new beverage bottles such as water bottles and soda bottles. This in turn enables PET plastic to be recycled and used again, thereby limiting the need for the use of virgin plastics. R-PET bottles can have the advantage of being just as good in terms of strength and durability as virgin PET bottles, making them a good choice for both consumers and manufacturers.

2. Food Packaging: R-PET is usually preferred for food packaging because it is sturdy, light, and can be converted into trays, tubs, or clamshells. It not only acts as a shield to protect the food from contamination but also it is a parcel to transport the food. R-PET food packaging can be used for the packaging of a wide assortment of food products including fruits, vegetables, salads and prepared meals.

3. Textiles: R-PET is a material that can be shredded and spun into fibers, which are used to make clothes, fleece and carpets. Therefore, it is a sustainable means of clothing production which in turn helps to eliminate textile waste. R-PET clothing is becoming a fairly widespread trend as people strive to pick more sustainable options. It can serve as a material for different garment types, for example, t-shirts and jackets, sweaters and pants.

4. 3D Printing Filament: R-PET can be used as raw material for filament used in 3D printers. With this option, manufacturers can design products that are environmentally friendly and reduce plastic waste from 3D printing. R-PET filament is a fantastic option for companies who want to print prototypes or manufacture using 3D printing. It is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, and it helps to create the best products.

Market Outlook

R-PET market is supported by the fact that environmental consciousness, regulatory obligations, and the corporate sustainability agendas are converging. Awareness of plastic pollution and climate change is on the rise, which means that consumers, governments, and businesses are compelled to act in a sustainable manner, and the demand for R-PET is soaring. Strict regulations, along with the EPR laws and plastic bags, are the factors that in turn increase the demand for recycled materials. On the other hand, growing consumer taste for ecological products also plays a role in the growing popularity of R-PET in the different industries. The continuous technological advances in the recycling processes contribute to the quality and viability of R-PET, which in turn stimulates market growth. These factors, all together, are the key to the circular economy and, therefore, the future of sustainability.

R-PET Significant Global Players

Major players in the Global R-PET market are Clear Path Recycling LLC, Verdeco Recycling, Inc., Indorama Ventures Public Ltd., Placon, Zhejiang Anshun Pettechs Fibre Co., Ltd., PolyQuest, Evergreen Plastics, Inc., Biffa, Phoenix Technologies, Libolon, and Others.

Conclusion:

Recycled- Polyethylene Terephthalate (R-PET) is a game-changer for sustainability in the world of plastics. It keeps plastic out of landfills and oceans by giving it a second life. This not only conserves resources but also reduces the environmental burden of many products and industries. The growing demand for sustainable packaging is a major driver of the R-PET market. Consumers are more environmentally conscious, and companies are striving for circular economies. R-PET's ability to slash carbon footprint and reliance on virgin plastic makes it a star in the packaging world. Government regulations that encourage recycling and consumer preference for eco-friendly options further fuel market growth. Beyond packaging, industries like food and beverage, personal care, and household products are using more R-PET as sustainable packaging becomes a key selling point. The rise of R-PET reflects a broader shift towards eco-friendly practices and highlights the importance of recycled materials in creating a more responsible and sustainable future.

[gallopshyundai]

Exploring the All-New Hyundai IONIQ 5 at Gallops Hyundai

The electric vehicle revolution is gaining momentum in India and Gallops Hyundai is at the forefront of this movement with the introduction of the all-new IONIQ 5. This futuristic crossover promises a blend of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and exhilarating performance. If you're in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and curious about the IONIQ 5, Gallops Hyundai is the perfect destination to explore this ground-breaking car.

Examining Gallops Hyundai's All-New Hyundai IONIQ 5

A Glimpse into the Future of Mobility at Gallops Hyundai

Gallops Hyundai, renowned for its exceptional customer service and commitment to innovation, is well-equipped to showcase the IONIQ 5. Their showroom boasts a modern ambiance, creating the ideal setting to experience the car's progressive design. The knowledgeable staff at Gallops Hyundai is eager to answer your questions, explain the IONIQ 5's features, and guide you through a personalized test drive. Most importantly, Gallops Hyundai understands that the perfect test drive is about more than just experiencing the car's performance. It's about imagining yourself behind the wheel every day and envisioning how the IONIQ 5 would elevate your driving experience. Their team will work with you to design a test drive route that mirrors your real-world needs, making the transition to electric mobility feel both exciting and attainable.

Unveiling the IONIQ 5's Captivating Design

As you approach the IONIQ 5, its captivating design language immediately grabs your attention. The sharp lines, pixelated lighting elements, and a silhouette reminiscent of classic hatchbacks create a unique and contemporary aesthetic. The car's spacious interior, accessible through its innovative, flush-fitting door handles, welcomes you with a sense of openness and comfort.

Stepping Inside a Sustainable Sanctuary

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 cabin is a haven for eco-conscious drivers. Sustainable materials like recycled PET bottles and plant-based leather create a premium feel while minimizing the car's environmental footprint. The spacious and airy interior, accentuated by the panoramic sunroof, fosters a sense of tranquillity and provides ample legroom and headroom for all passengers.

Exploring the Powertrain Options at Gallops Hyundai

Gallops Hyundai's knowledgeable staff can guide you through the IONIQ 5's available powertrain options, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and driving preferences. The standard rear-wheel-drive variant offers a compelling balance of performance and efficiency, while the all-wheel-drive option prioritizes power and handling. Both variants deliver instant torque and a smooth, exhilarating driving experience.

Cutting-Edge Technology

The IONIQ 5 is a technological marvel, packed with features that redefine the in-car experience. The expansive dual-screen infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, is intuitive and responsive. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like Highway Driving Assist (HDA) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Experience the Thrill of a Test Drive at Gallops Hyundai

The true essence of the IONIQ 5 can be best experienced behind the wheel. Gallops Hyundai offers you the opportunity to take the car for a test drive, allowing you to feel its power, responsiveness, and the comfort of its spacious interior. As you navigate the streets of Ahmedabad, experience the thrill of silent acceleration and the confidence instilled by the car's advanced safety features.

Owning the Future with Gallops Hyundai

If you're considering joining the electric vehicle revolution, the IONIQ 5 is a compelling option. Gallops Hyundai, with its commitment to customer satisfaction and expertise in electric vehicles, can guide you through the entire ownership process. From discussing financing options to explaining charging infrastructure, their team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition to electric mobility.

The All-New IONIQ 5 is a pioneering step towards a sustainable future. As its arrival marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future. With its combination of cutting-edge technology, eco-conscious design, and exhilarating performance, this car has the potential to redefine the electric vehicle landscape in India. A visit to Gallops Hyundai is the perfect opportunity to explore the IONIQ 5 and experience the future of mobility first-hand.

To dive deeper into specific features, here’s a list

Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Functionality: The IONIQ 5 boasts an innovative V2L function, allowing you to use the car's battery to power external appliances and devices. This feature is particularly useful for camping trips, outdoor events, or even providing emergency backup power during outages.

Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR HUD): The IONIQ 5's AR HUD projects driving information directly onto the windshield, minimizing distractions and enhancing safety. Imagine having vital information like speed, navigation, and safety warnings displayed directly in your line of sight, allowing you to keep your eyes focused on the road.

Relaxation Seats: The innovative relaxation seats in the IONIQ 5 recline to a near-flat position, offering an unparalleled level of comfort for passengers. Set your location to Gallops Hyundai and get a test ride today for the all new Hyundai’s IONIQ 5. Explore the vibe of this new car at your nearest showroom. And have a joyous ride ahead!

[newsource21]

Toxicity of solid plastics is a popular but false image based on the human need to resist science so that we can believe in the impossible, which goes back to the comforts of infancy when nothing can be explained.

The article mixes up PET and PE and includes a drawing (above) that includes a water/soda bottle, which is made from PET, chemically very different from polyolefins and already valuably recycled. Not irrelevant, as it appeals to people who see lots of plastic bottles and think all plastics are harmful.

The drawing is also misleading as it shows the feed of a complex hydrocarbon which may derive from PE/PP but isn’t our familiar view of long chains. Also, the product is propylene, not propane. Propylene may be worth more than propane and doesn't need added hydrogens. The drawing also shows production of methane, a greenhouse gas that isn't wanted, especially in the air.

The article states that the economics to make propane and sell it are promising, but the authors give neither investment nor operating nor sales/price data. And there’s nothing on energy needs in kilowatt-hours, which may make the process less attractive to many environmental-minded people. You need to break a lot of those strong C-C bonds to break the polymer chain, a basic flaw in much advanced/chemical recycling except some pyrolysis.

Lastly, the article invokes the popular image of plastics in our bodies, ignoring the impossibility of digestion or circulation. Micro-plastic particles are far too big to penetrate the gut wall and then circulate through our network of capillaries. And how much matters, as I often say. Discarded fishnets may be harmful to aquatic creatures, but so is catching fish and eating them.

Yet, many people still want to believe that micro-plastics are inside us to support their need to resist science, which deprives them of the comfort of miracles. They are quick to label plastic as toxic because it is:

unnatural (but earthquakes, rattlesnakes, and viruses are natural);

chemical (but everything is chemical, including water, air, and us);

changeable (but so is weather and our bodies);

synthetic (but so are many medicines and foods);

corporate (but corporations can be creative, and volume and efficiency can keep prices down when responsibly regulated).

What we really fear is ourselves — humanipulation.

It isn't only the unscientific masses who think this way. Our own industry is doing what the public — our customers — wants when it talks about sustainability and circularity, and the politicians correctly see such myth-understanding as doing what the voters want.

Waste is a separate and opposite problem from pollution. Waste is losing good stuff, but pollution is the presence of bad stuff. Our plastics industry can and should reduce its waste. But don’t single out plastics as more wasteful than other materials, and remember that they reduce other waste — food, energy, water — and keep us healthy, as they don’t support bacteria (as wet paper does) and, thus, prevent sickness and help in the cures. 

Plastics are relatively harmless but people want them to be bad? Yes, and now maybe you see why.

[kerlonshutter]

Gideros change color of sprite

She’s also on a mission to combat harmful stereotypes that plague the massage industry. In response, Fleming launched the ethics course, “Safety & Solicitation: Gaslighting and Power Dynamics” to help other therapists recognize threatening behavior from clients. I wasn't sure if it was worth it, but I stuck it out, “ says Fleming. So I really contemplated just leaving the industry all together between the vulgar messages and then trying to navigate that. “At that point I now had to process this traumatic experience while also navigating a brand new industry that put me alone in a dark room with strangers. What she didn’t expect was sexual harassment, which she says began almost instantly. Priscilla Fleming became a licensed massage therapist in 2019 to help people. Why 'Late Night with Seth Meyers' Is Canceled for Rest of the WeekĬandace Cameron Bure Explains What Happened Between Her and Jojo Siwa While the appearance of Sprite is getting a revamp, rest assured that the drink itself will maintain the same crisp flavor everybody knows and loves-with the added value of (one small step towards) saving the planet.Ĭhris Rock Finally Responds To Infamous Will Smith Oscars Slap But don't worry, the recognizable shade of green will still be incorporated. Sprite's wrap and logo will also receive a makeover, as the company aims to make the design more uniform worldwide to create a more cohesive branding moment. Coke projects that these changes will reduce roughly 20 million pounds of new plastic waste. While Sprite is the first to get a makeover, Fresca, Seagram's, and Mello Yello will follow suit in the coming months. Notably, Sprite is not the only green bottle in the brand's lineup. According to Julian Ochoa, CEO of R3CYCLE, which is assisting Coca-Cola with its recycling initiatives, "When recycled, clear PET Sprite bottles can be remade into bottles, helping drive a circular economy for plastic," as reported by CNN.

[mitchelindustri]

WHAT DO THE NUMBERS 1 TO 7 ON PLASTIC PRODUCTS MEAN?

If there is one highly usable material continuously rummaging the earth, it must be plastic. According to OECD reports, the world is producing twice the amount of plastic it used to in the last two decades.

The sad part is that almost 91% of it leaks into landfills, meaning that only 9% of plastic goes into the Recycling Machines. If we have a solution for the problems created by plastic, why do we still have to tackle plastic landfills? The reason is that we don't know the type of plastic that's usable and recyclable.

This blog aims to inform you about the different kinds of plastic and their recyclability so that we can make an informed decision next time.

How to Know Your Plastic Type?

If you flip the plastic package, you can see a small number inside a three-arrow triangle. The number can be from 1 to 7, and it indicates the types, uses and recyclability of the package.

If you understand what each numeral denotes, it's easy to decide whether or not to purchase the specific product. Here we are explaining the number on each plastic package for you to make a conscious choice-

Number 1: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE or PET)

PET is a robust form of plastic that is wrinkle-free and does not allow oxygen to enter the package and destroy the components inside; hence it's widely used for packing food and drinks. Some examples of PET packaging are single-use water bottles, peanut butter containers, salad dressing containers etc.

The PET packaging is recyclable, and a recycling machine can turn it into a variety of products such as carpets, soft furnishings, sleeping bags etc.

Number 2: High-density Polyethylene (HDPE)

HDPE is a stiff plastic that doesn't break down under the pressure of extreme temperatures and offers immense durability. Your detergent bottle, milk jugs, oil bottles, picnic tables, waste bins, park tables, etc., are HDPE plastic.

It's also suitable for the recycling machine to build piping materials, rope, recycling bins etc.

Number 3: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC is a soft and flexible type of plastic. It is useful in manufacturing cooking oil bottled, blister packaging, plumbing materials, garden hose, and other household products.

PVC is not a recyclable form of plastic and is also dangerous because it leaches toxins throughout its lifespan and spreads fatal diseases.

Number 4: Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

LDPE, or Low-Density Polyethylene, is easy and cheap to process, so it's the most used type of plastic. You can find LDPE bags everywhere. All your grocery bags, shrink wraps, and bread packaging are made of LDPE plastics. Even the coatings of milk cartons, beverage cups and squeezable bottles are all LDPE.

Though it's the cheapest form of plastic, it's not a recyclable product; hence it's best to avoid and use cloth fibre for carrying things.

Number 5: Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is a stiffer plastic that is lightweight and more resistant to heat, so you can find it in hot food containers to maintain the temperature of food. It's also common in sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, plastic bottle tops, yogurt containers and other stiff materials.

PP has low recyclability, and when it's directly in contact with heat, it may release toxins leading to asthma, hormone disruptions and other diseases.

Number 6: Polystyrene (PS)

Polystyrene is a lightweight, inexpensive plastic with multiple uses. The companies manipulate it into soft foam or peanut packaging to safeguard products while shipping and hardening PS into a sturdy CD case. The soft inner foam of your bike helmet, disposable glasses, egg cartons, and picnic cutlery are all built with polystyrene.

Though it's a widely used product, PS isn't recyclable. On top of it, it can leach toxicants when in contact with hot or oily material.

Number 7: Others

Category 7 is a miscellaneous category comprising all the types of plastic not mentioned in the above categories. Because it's such an imprecise group, categorizing it as recyclable or non-recyclable isn't possible. You can contact your nearest recycler to know if their recycling machines accept plastic from category 7.

What Are the Steps of Plastic Recycling?

There are 5 key steps of the recycling process after the products reach the recycling centre.

Sorting: Recyclers use different techniques to sort plastic according to their type and determine the following stages.

Shredding: The recycling machine shreds plastic into tiny flakes.

Washing: A thorough cleaning to remove contamination before moving forward to recycling.

Melting: After thoroughly washing, the plastic flakes dry, and the recycling machines turn them into pellets. It's then the machines melt plastic to ready it for manufacturing.

Manufacturing: It's then transferred into injection moulding machines to turn it into a variety of usable.

To Sum Up

Plastic is a hazardous material, but understanding its type can help you make a better decision when purchasing. If your plastic is recyclable, a plastic recycling company can easily use Injection Moulding Machines to manufacture new materials from the same; otherwise, all of it goes into the landfills or, worse, suffocates many aquatic and land animals.

The decision is yours whether to bring any plastic to your home or make a conscious decision to bring only recyclable plastic and put it into better use.

[earaercircular]

Recycling: the transformation of the plastic waste sector is becoming clearer

Perlenflasche

The French eco-organization Citeo is finalising the organisation of the sorting and recycling of a part of the plastic waste for a long time without specific treatment. Contested, this new approach is accompanied by a crucial call for tenders for recycling. Result expected by the end of the summer.

Thirty years after the creation of the collection, sorting and recycling sector for household packaging, the time has come to a new stage. Only 65% ​​of plastic waste is now covered by this sector, and the eco-organization Citeo[1]  is finalizing a new organization in order to amplify the sorting and recycling of certain types of plastic packaging long considered "without solution".

This concerns pots - mainly yoghurt - and polystyrene (PS) trays, coloured, non-transparent (particularly milk bottles) or clear polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and trays, as well as plastic films with based on polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP). Overall, this packaging represents 15% of non-recycled plastic waste, specifies the general manager of Citeo, Jean Hornain. “The overall objective for us is, on the long run, 100%: 100% of packaging with a reuse or recycling solution,” he recalls.

From cardboard-free yoghurt pots to mono-material cups

Apart from buying in bulk, the most glaring example of packaging reduction is perhaps that of yoghurt pots: manufacturers are in fact increasingly encouraged to remove the cardboard that surrounds their product. To contribute to better practices, Citeo has made the "LESS"[2] tool available to its 30,000 contributing companies, allowing them to develop different "pilots" for their future products. "Applied to a tube of toothpaste, the tool provided no less than 17 pilots: with or without a 'unitary' cap[3], with different shapes, etc.", illustrates Valentin Fournel. So many opportunities to visually distinguish themselves from their competitors.

"The ideal remains to have a mono-material packaging", specifies the director of "Eco-design services" of Citeo. To understand, just take a look at the paper cup, distributed in our coffee machines. The interior of these cups is in fact lined with a waterproofing plastic layer, preventing the liquid from soaking the cardboard up to the surface. However, this layer represents approximately 10% of the cup - which prevents it from being recycled with other cardboard packaging. "We worked on a process of 'chromatogeny'[4], that makes it possible to provide cellulose[5] with a barrier to water. Thus, we arrive at a cup made up of 97% cardboard", welcomes the manager.

Recycled, sustainable, bio-sourced materials

Manufacturers are also working on the origin of the materials making up the packaging of their products. "The example that comes to my mind is the 'grey bottle of milk', slips Valentin Fournel. When you see it on the shelves, you can be surprised at its colour, while all the others bottles are immaculately white. The industrialist's trick is to explain his approach directly on the label: 'This bottle is grey because it is made from recycled material.'"An example of eco-design that also works from a marketing point of view.

In addition to materials from recycling, designers can also turn to "bio-sourced" plastics (of organic origin, mainly vegetal, not to be confused with biodegradable plastics - not as beneficial for the environment as they may look like), such as bio-PE or bio-PET, for which it will nevertheless be necessary to "develop the recycling channels before being able to exploit their full potential". For more environmentally friendly supplies, they can also choose FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) [6] or PEFC (Forest Certification Recognition Program)[7] labelled paper and cardboard.

Re-use, the holy grail of recycling?

All these approaches, however interesting they may be, should not obscure the "holy grail" of recycling. "Re-using packaging is in a way 100% recycling, since we will use it to sell a product again", underlines Valentin Fournel. "The objective is to move to 10% reuse by 2027", adds Sophie Nguyen, "Reuse and bulk" manager at CITEO. An objective which, according to her, requires "to carry out several revolutions", in particular the development of objects suitable for reuse - on the model of the "Perlenflasche" (pearl glass bottle), that German consumers bring back to their "store drinks" so that it is washed and then re-filled with water to return to the shelves.

"It's the same principle as self-service bicycles, illustrates Sophie Nguyen. Previously, there were a lot of companies that offered them, and little sharing. Today, for example, you have Vélib''[8]: all stations are identical and bikes are interchangeable, you can transfer them between stations to regulate availability. Similarly it goes if you have a standardized water bottle you can bring it back anywhere." The surface left to the label also leaves the possibility for manufacturers, here again, to stand out from the competition.

But several important questions arise to develop this approach. In particular, should a deposit amount be set, and which one? "In Germany, it ranges from 15 to 30 euro cents on average per bottle. But you also have to decide whether the amount will be unique or different depending on the type of object", projects Sophie Nguyen. Another issue: that of "washing factories". "We have between 4 and 5 operational bottle washing plants in France, and new ones are starting to be built, lists the manager. To reach the 10% target, it will take more than twenty." Not to mention the bowls and trays, the cleaning of which requires different "washing tunnels"...[9]

Responsibility of the industrialist... and of the citizen

“Reuse requires setting up an industrial sector. For that, two things are needed: funding, and the need. Because if there is no bottle to wash, what is the point of building a washing plant? ", underlines the "Reuse and bulk" manager, for whom "mobilizing the consumer is one of the central elements". “Our goal is for companies to include eco-design, recyclability and reuse in their strategy. But as citizens, we also have a responsibility,” concludes Jean Hornain, CEO of Citeo.

Source

Christophe Palierse, Recyclage : la transformation de la filière des déchets plastiques se précise, in : Les Echos, 28-07-2022 ; https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/energie-environnement/recyclage-la-transformation-de-la-filiere-des-dechets-plastiques-se-precise-1779186

Nastasia Michaels : Recyclage : qu'est-ce que l'éco-conception ? in : Geo, 22-04-2022, https://www.geo.fr/environnement/recyclage-quest-ce-que-leco-conception-209431

[1]Citeo is a organisation with a mission created by companies in the mass consumption and distribution sector to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging and paper, by offering them reduction, reuse, sorting and recycling solutions. To respond to the ecological emergency and accelerate the transition to the circular economy, Citeo has set itself 5 commitments: reduce the environmental impact of its customers' products by anchoring the circular economy and eco-design in their practices and strategies; create the conditions for building the solutions of today and tomorrow that combine environmental and economic performance; giving consumers the keys to reducing the environmental impact of their consumption; co-construct and promote the company's solutions and positions, from the local to the international scale; cultivate the commitment of its employees in the service of its mission. Since the creation of Citeo, consumer goods and distribution companies have invested more than 11 billion euros to develop eco-design, to install and finance selective collection and to create recycling channels, with their partners local authorities, sectors and operators. Today, 72% of household packaging and 62% of paper are recycled thanks to the sorting gesture of the French, which has become the first eco-citizen gesture. https://www.citeo.com/nous-connaitre

[2] “Less is more” for the planet! Indeed, for equivalent material, reducing packaging is always synonymous with reducing environmental impact. How to go about it ? Citeo offers LESS, a new methodological guide accompanied by resources and good practices accessible to its customers.https://www.citeo.com/le-mag/less-un-guide-methodologique-pour-reduire-les-emballages

[3] inseparable from the tube to prevent it from detaching, although it is too small to be recycled on its own

[4] The innovative chromatogeny technology developed by the CTP and the CNRS and making it possible to make paper / cardboard hydrophobic using a green chemistry process is booming, with excellent prospects for industrialization in Europe in the coming years. years. The barrier performances obtained meet numerous specifications and the material manufactured is recyclable and biodegradable. However, in order to use chromatogeny in the manufacture of paper and cardboard intended to come into contact with food, an agreement from the authorities is necessary. Indeed, the process is innovative and the products created during the functionalization of the material are not currently on the positive authorization lists.https://www.webctp.com/fr/industrialisation-de-la-chromatogenie

[5] a natural component of cardboard, editor's note

[6] The Forest Stewardship Council A. C. (FSC) is an international non-profit, multistakeholder organization established in 1993 that promotes responsible management of the world's forests via timber certification. It is an example of a market-based certification program used as a transnational environmental policy.

[7] The PEFC Council (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes) is an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organization. It was founded in 1999 to promote sustainably managed forests through independent third-party certification. https://www.pefc.org/

[8] Vélib' was a large-scale public bicycle sharing system in Paris, France. Launched on 15 July 2007, the system encompassed around 14,500 bicycles and 1,400 bicycle stations, located across Paris and in some surrounding municipalities, with an average daily ridership of 85,811 in 2011.The name Vélib' is a portmanteau of the French words vélo ("bicycle") and liberté ("freedom"). Vélib' was operated originally as a concession by the French advertising corporation JCDecaux.

[9] Read also https://earaercircular.tumblr.com/post/690198518821978112/bring-back-the-comeback-of-reusable-glass

[rjzimmerman]

I read the words, “mutant enzyme” in this story and shuddered. Just what we need, another mutant whatever to learn to eat us because we have plastic in us.

Excerpt from this EcoWatch story:

Scientists have engineered a mutant enzyme that converts 90 percent of plastic bottles back to pristine starting materials that can then be used to produce new high-quality bottles in just hours. The discovery could revolutionize the recycling industry, which currently saves about 30 percent of PET plastics from landfills, reported Science Magazine.

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is the plastic used in soda bottles, textiles and packaging. With almost 70 million tons manufactured annually worldwide, it is also the most abundant polyester plastic because it is strong and lightweight, explains the study's abstract, which was published in Nature.

Unfortunately, current PET recycling is inefficient. When plastics of different colors are melted down during the recycling process, a gray or black plastic starting material results that few companies want to purchase to package their products, explained Science Magazine. The process results in low-grade plastic fibers only good enough for clothing and carpets, reported The Guardian. These eventually end up in a landfill or incinerated, added Science Magazine.

"It's not really recycling at all," explained professor John McGeehan, the director of the Centre for Enzyme Innovation at the University of Portsmouth, to Science Magazine.

McGeehan, who was not involved in the research, called the new enzyme "a huge step forward," reported Science Magazine. He also noted that Carbios, the French sustainable plastics company behind the breakthrough, is the industry leader in engineering enzymes to break down PET at large scale, reported The Guardian.

The mutant enzyme broke down 90% of 200 grams of PET in a small reactor in just 10 hours. Different colors didn't matter because the enzyme can ignore dyes and other plastics in the molten mix. The researchers were able to use the resultant chemical building blocks to produce new PET and food-grade plastic bottles that were just as strong as those made from virgin plastics, reported Science Magazine.

[madelainepetschsblog]

While many of us are eager to recycle the plastic products in our homes, the recycling process in the United States is often confusing and opaque.

New Jersey-based TerraCycle is a recycling company that has partnered with consumer goods brands to make this process easier. But a recent lawsuit—and a settlement this week—shows how many problems exist in the plastic recycling system, and how much work companies still need to do to clean up their practices.In the suit, filed in March, a California-based nonprofit called the Last Beach Cleanup argued that eight consumer goods companies led customers to believe that they could send back plastic packaging and/or single-use products for free to be recycled by TerraCycle. The LBC said this encouraged customers to shop from these brands and use plastic products without worrying about their environmental impact. In reality, however, only a certain number of customers could actually recycle those products for free. Then, customers would either have to pay to recycle the product or throw it away.According to the terms of the settlement announced Monday, the eight companies (Coca-Cola, Procter & Gamble, Late July Snacks, Gerber, L’Oreal, Tom’s of Maine, Clorox, and Materne) will now make it clear on their labels when participation is limited. TerraCycle has also agreed to pay the LBC’s legal fees and implement a supply chain certification program to give customers more confidence about how their products are recycled.

MISLEADING CLAIMS Tom Szaky founded TerraCycle two decades ago as a way to fill the gaps in the U.S.’s broken recycling system. Municipal curbside recycling programs accept only some forms of plastic, like PET bottles and takeout containers. They aren’t equipped to handle more complex plastic products, like makeup packaging or baby food packets, which are often made from several different materials.TerraCycle partners with dozens of companies—including the eight in the lawsuit—that pay TerraCycle to collect packaging from consumers and then recycle it. These sponsored recycled programs are by far TerraCycle’s largest source of revenue, generating $10.5 million for the company in 2020. However, these brands set aside a limited amount of money to pay for the recycling, which means that in some cases, when demand is high, they run out of money to continue operating the program.

“In some cases, the programs are so popular that the budget hits a limit,” Szaky explains. “So we limit the number of participating locations that can take part.” Fast Company reached out to all eight consumer companies for comment, but none responded by the time of publication. Szaky declined to provide specifics on what these companies’ budgets were.

Jan Dell, founder of the Last Beach Cleanup, ran into these limits. She started collecting her plastic waste—like toothpaste tubes, makeup containers, and plastic cleaning bottles. But when it came time to send them in to TerraCycle, she discovered that the recycling program was closed to new participants. When she went online, she found people on Reddit in the same situation. She would either have to throw out all the plastic she’d accumulated or pay for one of TerraCycle’s “Zero Waste” boxes—which can cost consumers anywhere from $42 to more than $100—to collect and send in her recyclables. (These boxes are TerraCycle’s second-largest source of revenue, generating $7.5 million in 2020.)

To Dell, this was a big problem because she believed consumers like her were being misled. Consumers might choose a particular product believing that it would be properly recycled for free; if they had known the program was so limited, they may not have made the purchase. It also seemed problematic that brands were able to have the sheen of sustainability by advertising their recycling program, when in fact only a portion of their packaging would be recycled. “Brands were telling the world that all these products could be sent back to be recycled for free, but there were actually limits,” she says. “It was clear to me that this could not be legal.” (Neither the LBC nor TerraCycle specified how many customers were turned away from these programs.)The LBC worked with Lexington Law Group to file the suit against TerraCycle, asking for its labels to be corrected to make it clear that participation is limited. Per the terms of the settlement, brands must say on their packaging that there may be some limits to the TerraCycle recycling program. Szaky points out that there are many companies that have never hit their budget limit. Out of the 15 companies that offer pet food recycling programs, for instance, only two have limits.

When it comes to the required supply chain certification program, Szaky says TerraCycle was already working on an audit of its third-party recyclers. He says the company will share it publicly as soon as the audit is completed next year. “I want to be clear that we began doing this audit before the lawsuit even came up,” he says. “This was something we were already working on.”THE BROADER RECYCLING PROBLEM While TerraCycle and these eight companies are the latest to come under fire for deceptive practices, they are far from the only companies accused of misleading customers about recycling.In December 2020, Greenpeace sued Walmart for falsely labeling items as recyclable. It claimed that several plastic products, like applesauce and yogurt cups, can be recycled only in certain areas. The court dismissed the suit, saying that Walmart was not deliberately misleading in its labeling practices, and the judge has given Greenpeace the opportunity to file a new, amended complaint. In 2018, Keurig faced a class-action lawsuit for making false claims about its coffee pods’ recyclability. While the pods are made from recyclable plastic, most municipal recycling facilities aren’t able to process such small pieces of plastic, meaning they’re actually not recyclable to many consumers. The case is still in court.

Meanwhile, there’s increasing evidence that a lot of plastic that people put in their curbside recycling bins ends up in landfills. For years, the U.S. sent enormous quantities of plastic to China to be recycled, but in 2018, the country said it would no longer accept the plastic. Extensive reporting from NPR and PBS has found that in many parts of the U.S., municipalities end up dumping this plastic into landfills. Since plastic doesn’t biodegrade, it will break into smaller and smaller fragments that may eventually end up in the food chain, potentially poisoning animals and humans.Dell believes this sets up a situation in which consumers think they can continue using and recycling plastic with abandon, when it fact their plastic consumption is actively harming the planet. She advocates for companies to redesign packaging to use biodegradable, nonplastic materials or to use packaging that can easily be recycled in municipal recycling facilities.Szaky also believes that the recycling system is broken. He says this is why TerraCycle is currently directing its profits toward Loop, a new division of the company founded in 2019, which helps companies move away from single-use plastic to reusable bottles. It has created durable containers for dozens of brands, including Clorox, Häagen-Dazs, and Seventh Generation, which consumers can send back to the retailers to be refilled. The program is already up and running in the U.K., France, and Japan, and it’s planned to roll out in the U.S. in the coming months.

In other words, even though TerraCycle’s business model now depends on recycling, Szaky believes reuse is the way forward. “Recycling—whether through TerraCycle or through municipal recycling—is only a Band-Aid,” he says. “We believe reuse is the right answer and we’re continuing to pour all our profits into making Loop work. And frankly, if Loop really takes off, it will actually cannibalize our other business, kind of like Netflix’s streaming killed off their DVD business. That will be a good thing.”

[ source- https://www.fastcompany.com/90697087/recycling-in-the-u-s-is-an-absolute-mess-this-lawsuit-shows-just-how-hard-it-is?partner=feedburner&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=feedburner+fastcompany&utm_content=feedburner&cid=eem524:524:s00:11/16/2021_fc&utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Compass&utm_campaign=eem524:524:s00:11/16/2021_fc

[myownpersonaldemons]

Self Tober Prompt 25

Bowtie

Grillby/Reader

Who else could I have written about?

You would be lying if you said you didn’t like a well-dressed man. There was just something about well-tailored outfits that just made you swoon a bit when you saw them. Even better? When those well-dressed men got comfortable, pushing their sleeves to their elbow, loosening their tie, unbuttoning their shirt? Perfection.

But, you were totally not undressing your boss with your eyes. You were not imagining slowly loosening his bowtie and slipping it from his neck.

Not at all.

You were cleaning tables, taking orders, joking and laughing with the mix of monster and human patrons, and stoutly avoiding Sans. The little skeleton gremlin would be able to instantly know what you were thinking if he hadn’t already figured it out. Sans was very perspective.

A series of excited howls drew your attention away from the table you were cleaning up to see the wolf pack piling into the bar for their nightly game of poker. You smiled and greeted them all with pets and praise and instantly reciting their order, constantly moving so that Doggo could see you. With a slight deviation to their normal order, you picked up your tray full of dirty dishes and headed over to the bar.

“…normal order?” Grillby asked, placing a freshly cleaned glass down in its spot and shifting it so it perfectly lined up with the others.

“Almost, Doggo would like a double order of fries instead of the burg, and Dogamy and Dogressa are starting them off early with their usual rounds of drinks,” you said, slipping behind the counter with the tray of dirty dishes. Grillby took the tray from you easily, and gestured towards the wall of alcohol before disappearing into the fire exit. It was a pun, mainly, because you had entered behind there a lot of times and it was just the back room for cooking and storage. Nothing fancy.

When you had asked about it, Grillby told you in the Underground they had less rules about what was required in having a business. That back room literally couldn’t be accessed by anyone other than him because it was on fire. Magical fire that didn’t spread, but fire nonetheless.

You were glad there were codes against that, or you probably wouldn’t have gotten a job.

You didn’t linger long staring after him, moving to do your job. It had once been incredibly hard for you to remember the different drink mixtures, but now it was like second nature. Especially the drinks you made day in and day out. Sans watched you, sipping on his ketchup, without comment. You didn’t offer any commentary either as you placed the four drinks on the tray  and headed back over to the dog monsters.

The rest of the night passed by with no incidents and, as always, Ugly Fish and Red Bird were the final monsters to stumble their way out of the bar. Red Bird throwing compliments and flirts at Grillby the entire way out. You weren’t sure whether or not Grillby appreciated them, as he wasn’t very expressive. Or…maybe he was? You only saw him at work, after all.

You locked the door behind them, switching the sign to off, closed the blinds, and turned around to smile at Grillby. He returned it with what you assumed was his smile before the two of you quietly finished cleaning the bar up.

As you moped, Grillby counted the till, slipping what needed to go to the bank into an envelope and into his pocket before working on splitting up the tips. At your previous waitressing gig, you had a feeling that your boss had been siphoning some of the tips into his own pocket, but with Grillby? Some nights you had to fight with him because you swore he gave you some of his tips as well.

You tucked away the mop and headed over to the jukebox in the corner to turn it off, pausing beside it as it switched to a song you recognized. Just for a moment before you hit the power button and the lights blinked off.

Grillby had already headed into the back so you made sure everything was away properly before following him.

It was the end of the week, which meant bank night. Normally, you were the first to leave so you never saw Grillby in anything besides his work outfit. It was a slow night tonight, so everything had gotten finished early so he hadn’t sent you home early.

He had taken off his apron and hung it up on the peg next to the door, which was normal, but what wasn’t normal? He pulled on a leather jacket over top of his work uniform, and was currently in the process of untying his bow tie.

Oh no.

Your weakness.

You had to firmly remind yourself that he was your boss and therefore those thoughts were off limits! You turned your gaze away immediately as you headed over to stand beside him. You hung your apron up, and slipped your own jacket over your shoulders and then pulled on your toque.

Grillby wasn’t a vocal monster, so you weren’t surprised when he simply gestured towards the door after opening it. You nodded your head and slipped out into the chilly air. It was just after Halloween and there was already snow falling. That wasn’t unusual to this part of the world, but you still glared up at the sky as the puffy white flakes drifted down. You’d hoped that the snow would have stayed behind the clouds until you got back to your apartment.

“…see you tomorrow,” Grillby said, interrupting your glaring. You turned to face him, watching the snow melt and evaporate well before it touched his flames.

“I’m off tomorrow, remember,” you said, stepping a bit closer to him and his warmth when a blast of icy wind managed to worm it’s way up your jacket. You should’ve worn your winter jacket but you weren’t ready to give up on fall yet! “My parents are coming to town to visit.”

“…right,” he said with a faint nod. Another gust of wind, and he gestured towards the street, “…would you like me to walk you to your car?”

That surprised you. A break from the script?

“I…uh, don’t drive,” you said giving him a smile, “Thanks for the offer though.”

“…you don’t drive?” he said slowly, some sparks flying from the top of his head.

“Don’t have car, it’s more expensive to drive than to walk,” you explained, stuffing your hands into your pockets, “I’ll see you in a couple days.”

You turned, but his hand gently touched your elbow, “…I can walk you home.”

“What?” you blurted out in surprise, twisting to look at him. There was a shift of his  flames and you swore that they shifted to blue for a moment.

“…it’s cold,” he gestured to the air, “…and it’s three in the morning.”

“Exactly, so you should drop the money off at the bank and get back to your place,” you said waving your hands in a dismissive way, “Does the cold not bother you?”

He shook his head, “…my flames just get warmer in response…which way is your apartment?”

You gestured down the street, “four blocks or so that way.”

“…that’s on the way to the bank,” he said, there was a hesitation in his voice. “…I can walk you…if you’d like.”

A pause.

“Sure,” you relented, it was just a friendly suggestion. Besides, you’d much prefer walking with someone this early in the morning. Especially if said someone let off a wonderful heat that chased away a majority of your chill.

Walking you home became a daily thing after that, and soon he stopped asking if you’d like to be walked home. It was just expected. As the nights got colder, you bundled up more, and on the coldest of nights he traded the leather jacket for a black pea coat.

You got comfortable enough with him to compliment the pea coat and told him that he had impeccable fashion sense.

“…really?” he said, glancing down at himself, “…Sans says I look old fashioned.”

You blushed lightly, tugging your scarf up slightly, “I mean, you do…but that’s not a bad thing? I like that style. Especially the bow tie. It…really suits you.”

After that conversation, you noticed subtle changes to Grillby’s wardrobe. If you thought he was trying before to look good, you were wrong. This was him trying. You were impressed.

Still, you just thought that your compliment merely spurred him into accepting his sense of style more. It was Sans who set you straight on that aspect.

Grillby went into the back to prepare some orders and you were manning the bar. You handed Sans a fresh bottle of ketchup and tucked the other aside to be cleaned up and recycled.

“grillbz has been changing up his look lately, know anything about that?” Sans asked, leaning against the counter top and inclining the bottle of ketchup towards you.

“Not really, I told him that the old fashion look suits him. Might’ve been a little boost to his confidence?” you shrugged a shoulder, “He hasn’t mentioned anything to me about it, though.”

“so him wearing a bowtie that happens to match the colour of your shirt has nothing to do with you?” Sans asked, a shit eating grin on his face.

You frowned slightly, “What? He’s not-“

The fire exit door opened and Grillby swept past the bar to deliver the cooked food to some of the regulars. You glanced down at your button up, it was a deep purple and when you looked back up at Grillby, so was his tie. You blushed, and quickly spun around to organize some of the bottles on the wall.

“That’s just a coincidence,” you hissed to Sans after your face had calmed down, peeking over at Grillby as he spoke quietly with the dogs at the poker table.

“was he wearing a tie when you started?” he asked, his grin twitching upward again. You paused and then shook your head. “hehe…and I thought I was a numbskull.”

“He wouldn’t have time to do that, and I wasn’t paying attention to his-“

“ya can’t lie to me kid,” Sans pointed out, turning around and leaning back against the bar to look at Grillby. “plus, grillbz’ lives above the bar in the studio.”

That made you freeze slightly, watching Grillby as he left the dogs to check up on the other patrons and then started making his way back to the bar. You glared at the back of Sans’ skull lightly. You didn’t need to be thinking that way about your boss, you would’ve been much more content in your ignorance.

Actually, you wouldn’t have.

You had a huge crush on Grillby and had for a while. The fact that he was matching his bow tie to your shirt colour was adorable. But…you didn’t really trust Sans. It could’ve totally been a coincidence! So, the next day you made sure to note if Grillby was wearing a bowtie, he was, and you relaxed when you noticed it wasn’t the same colour as your shirt. But then you felt bad. You had been happy at the thought that…well, it didn’t matter anymore.

Yet, at the end of the day you noticed the subtle shift of colour to his bowtie. It matched your shirt.

When you had started, he simply told you that the work uniform was dress pants, shoes, shirt and a black vest. The button up shirt could be any colour that you wanted.

The next day, just to make sure that it hadn’t been a fluke, you set up a stupid little test. You brought an extra button up shirt of a different colour and during your break you changed it. Explaining to Sans when he asked that you had spilt some sauce on your sleeve. A few minutes after that Grillby had come back into the room with a different coloured bowtie.

Sans snickered, and you blushed.

That night, as you were pulling on your jacket. Grillby moved to hand you your ‘soiled’ button up and paused, looking at the sleeve. You noticed him subtly check the other sleeve before you zipped up your jacket and turned to him.

“...” he stared at you for a moment before his flames shifted colour, sparking a bit with blue.

“Yes?” you asked, tilting your head slightly, and taking your shirt from him and tucking it away in your bag.

“…I thought you said it was…dirtied?” he asked quietly.

“I may have lied?” you said, peering up at him shyly, “Because I wanted to test a theory.”

“……..oh?”

He shifted slightly, almost as if he was trying to hide his bowtie that he hadn’t taken off yet.

You hesitated before reaching up and adjusting his jacket lapels so that the bowtie was more visible. His flames brightened slightly, and you dropped your hands. “…I can explain…”

You paused, did…he think you were mad? You tilted your head and waited quietly.

“…”

He sighed, a few sparks escaping his mouth, “…I…was…flattered by your compliment.”

“Which one?”

“…about the bowtie…”

“Oh.”

“…I am realizing that it might be weird as your boss,” he said, flushing even bluer. “I apologize. I’ll stop.”

“It’s fine,” you blurted out, and then added without thinking, “I think it’s cute.” You flushed and covered your face, “that was inappropriate! I’m so sorry-“

“Cute?” Grillby said, flames growing larger.

“Uh…yeah…cute,” you mumbled, “ANYWAYS! Time to go home!”

“…I find you cute as well,” he said quickly making you blush even more. If that was even possible.

“What?” you blurted out, “How?”

“Why…wouldn’t I?” he said, hesitantly placing his hands on his hips, “…it is…inappropriate as your boss…”

“Can we…walk?” you suggested quietly, gesturing towards the door. He opened the door and the two of you stepped out into the snow. “I’m attracted to you, I’ll admit,” you said, burying your face into your scarf, “and it won’t affect my work ethic because I’ve been attracted to you since I started.”

His flames grew a bit more wild, “…I am attracted to you as well…”

“But you are my boss,” you reminded him gently, and he nodded.

The two of you were silent as you walked, you stopped by the entrance to your apartment complex.

“So…do we just continue on like…nothing happened?” you asked quietly.

“…do you wish to?”

You stared up at him. Did you? Not at all.

“No…”

The two of you stared at each other for a moment, before he slowly reached up and brushed his fingers against your cheek. “…then would you care to come early to work tomorrow?”

“Why?” you said, leaning into his touch.

“…for a date.”

You blushed, “Only if you wear your red bowtie.”

He blinked his golden eyes at you, before his mouth split open in a grin. “…for you, yes.”

[shinyx2]

(via The case of the vanishing gecko | The Daniel Island News)

“On Sept. 10, Bill’s big adventure began, as he escaped while sequestered during a cage cleaning. The students were heartbroken and Ms. White desperately searched every nook and cranny in the classroom, cleaning out cabinets and closets. Students monitored three hours of the hallway security camera footage to catch a glimpse of his escape…no Bill to be seen.

“I decided to use it as a teachable moment,” White said. “We have been learning about the engineering design process in class, so I decided to make this a real world problem solving activity.”

By activating the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics) principles that the school infuses into it’s curriculum, she challenged the students to design and create prototypes of “gecko traps” using materials like Styrofoam trays, cardboard boxes, straws, tape, plastic containers and bottles, different-sized lids, and anything else in the classroom recycled collection.

The students worked in small groups and began creating their traps using STEAM skills. They thought about ways to design a container that would allow Bill to enter in without escaping again. They also considered his personality and wanted to create an environment with areas where he could hide and feel comfortable.

Student Jaydon Camp explained his group’s design process: “We were using STEM skills like engineers, so we drew a sketch, built the trap, tested it, and then put it in a place where we thought we could catch the gecko.”

“A couple of days before he escaped, we learned about the engineering design process, where you talk about your ideas, make a sketch, use provided materials, and then you make it,” added teammate Jasper Seig.

Reagan Williams, another student in the class, said that creating an inviting space was a key factor.

“We had to make sure the environment was right for him and the trap didn’t have openings where he could crawl back out.”

The traps were constructed and put into place on Thursday afternoon.

“I put mealworms in every single trap and went home thinking, it would be really cool if this works, but he is gone,” said White. “At least we tried, and every student helped.

”When Friday morning arrived, Ms. White checked the traps…and Bill was back! Ava Wolf, Olivia Cole, and Nevaeh Newingham designed the winning trap -- dark, cave-like, and stocked with food, all of which Bill found irresistible. The trap was made from a shallow pizza box with a cardboard ramp leading in, Styrofoam walls to prevent an escape, and a juice lid chute on the top that allowed the girls to drop mealworms into a feeding dish. The team sketched their design but made revisions based on research about geckos and their ability to jump. They secured the pizza box so it would remain closed and narrow to prevent a second escape. The class was ecstatic that they devised a successful solution as a team and kept their pet out of harm’s way.“

[emmataylordesign-blog]

Sustainability in the Fashion Industry

Sustainability: focuses on meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

Sustainability is one of the key topics which is being faced in the fashion industry, as fast fashion is at an all time high, as well as the consumers needs to keep up to date with the latest trends in this throw away society. The fashion industry is the 2nd largest polluter in the world, the first being the oil industry. 

Sustainability is something that should be thought about at every stage of the production process, from where the materials are sourced (are they organic?) to the transportation of them to the shops (air pollution from lorries/planes etc.) A way that with could be done is by having transparency within the brand/ supply chain. By having transparency and showing where all elements are made/ bought it means that there is more trust between the company and the consumer. Another way of gaining trust is if the brand has official certification that shows the status of the quality of the material, e.g. to prove that a garment is made of 100% organic cotton. 

There are many reasons why some brands are finding it hard to make sustainable changes/ doing more; 

- trying to find a solution to the issue is far too complex and there is no single solution.

- some solutions just create more issues, e.g. people thought that faux fur was a better alternative than real fur, however, faux fur is made out of acrylic, a plastic that does not decompose naturally unlike real fur. This makes it worse for the environment. 

- consumers are demanding more product for less money. For example, cashmere was/ is a luxury fibre, but due to a recent increase in demand, the production f cashmere has increased. Cashmere s a fibre from goats, how pull up roots when eating grass, meaning that they are slowly degrading the soil used. Due to this increase, it means that the soil does not have enough time to recover, meaning that it is desertification is occurring. 

Some brands however are doing more to help sustainability, including Nike. 

‘‘ Recycled Polyester: Utilizing recycled PET plastic bottles, NIKE designs superior performance apparel. Reclaimed, discarded plastic bottles are melted down to produce new yarn and converted into fabric to create NIKE’s high performance apparel.  This process saves raw materials and reduces energy consumption by an estimated 30% compared to manufacturing virgin polyester.’‘

Another brand is Stella McCartney , ‘Respect for Nature, Respect for People, Respect for Animals, Circular Solutions’ 

‘Respect for Nature’- ‘’ We believe in respecting the environment and working with nature instead of against it. By continuing to source as many sustainable materials as possible, we hope to enrich the environment and protect it for the future.’’

Organic cotton eliminates the use of toxic and persistent chemicals, improves soil health and increases water conservation. All of which is better for environment and for farmers and their communities, explaining why we have been increasing the amount of certified organic cotton we use in our collections over the years.

Respect for People- ‘’The future of fashion relies on people, including those who make clothes, the farmers who grow the crops, our employees and customers. We want to ensure a positive impact for the people we depend on and those who depend on us in return.’‘ 

We believe everybody in our supply chain should be treated with respect and dignity. We believe everybody should earn a fair wage. We believe in building modern and resilient supply chains that provide desirable jobs, foster people’s skills, strengthen worker’s voices and advocate for vulnerable groups.

Respect for Animals- ‘’ As a vegetarian brand, we believe in treating animals and their habitats with respect. We promote a cruelty-free ethos and continue to innovate ways of creating sustainable materials. ‘’                                                  As a vegetarian brand, we never use leather, skin, fur or feathers, using alternative materials instead. 

Circular Solutions- ‘’We believe that the future of fashion is circular – it will be restorative and regenerative by design and the clothes we love never end up as waste.’‘  As we continue to push boundaries and challenge the status quo we want to evolve from just reducing our impact to making a positive impact. We want to completely reimagine the fashion industry as we know it and move to a new circular economy. 

https://news.nike.com/news/nike-better-world

https://www.stellamccartney.com/experience/us/sustainability/

[mindfulbuildingandliving]

Building a recycled plastic house and living in it - Is that a good or a bad idea?

Building a recycled plastic house and living in it, is that a good or a bad idea? This family of 4 created and built the first Plastic house in Europe!

Living good and sustainable in a house made of recycled plastic

Save plastics introduces a home that’s portable and self-sufficient, produced with local waste plastic. The save home is the first house that combines the four elements of 'good green living': comfort & safety, self-sufficiency, mobility and local circular production.

The save home is a moveable home that does not sacrifice luxury and comfort. The house consists of separate units that can be connected as desired. Thanks to smart placement, good insulation, solar collectors and the latest technologies, the house can be self-sufficient. Where possible, 100% recycled plastic is used. For example, the facade is fully clad in plastic as well as the outdoor terrace. Other materials used are as sustainable as possible.

About plastic and the material efficiency

Plastic is actually a miracle material: it is light, strong, lasts a very long time, doesn't break easily, keeps food longer, and can have all sorts of properties (think color or pliability). At the same time, some of the advantages of plastic are also a disadvantage. Take the fact that plastic lasts so long: if it ends up in the environment, it stays there for a very long time, with all kinds of harmful consequences for ecosystems and animals. And the fact that plastics are so different makes them difficult to sort and recycle. In this article we explain how plastic recycling works.

First things first: what exactly is plastic? Plastics consist of so-called polymers: long chains of molecules with lots of carbon. Most plastics (more than 99%) are made from petroleum, but they can also be made from renewable sources. To give plastics a desired property (for example, flexible or hard), other molecules can be added to this carbon chain, which are called additives.

Recycling of plastics Most plastics are theoretically recyclable. They can be melted down after use and then formed into a new (and thus recycled) product. Some plastics, once they have been shaped, cannot be remelted and are therefore not recyclable. Fortunately, this concerns only 8% of the total production. Plastic recycling and upcycling can also be seen as resource efficiency, instead of just throwing it away.

Since 2010, plastic has been collected separately in central Europe for recycling. In the European Union, the recycling percentage is even less than 50% on average. Worldwide the percentage is still very low: 14% is collected separately and only 5% is recycled. One third of the packaging material is not collected at all and ends up in the environment. This is a major cause of plastic soup on the coast of Southeast Asia. And as many of us know, very often it’s plastic killing animals. Then the other question will be: how much plastic has the ocean cleanup collected. There’s plenty of research on the best technology to get plastic out of the ocean.

Why is plastic bottle recycling important? Recycling PET bottles and HDPE bottles is a good thing, both economically and environmentally. Less energy is consumed than in the production of new plastic, and fewer raw materials are needed, including petroleum. Moreover, the plastic bottles no longer end up in the residual waste. A double advantage: we pay less and we pollute less! However there are plenty of voices who claim that plastic recycling doesn’t work. Of course one needs to raise the question if recycling is worth it.

The recycling process in a nutshell Once you have added a plastic package to the PMD waste, it is weighed at the collection station and checked for quality. Lots that contain too much contamination (e.g. from labels or additives) are rejected and go to the incinerator. Batches that are pure enough are compressed and go to a sorting station. There they are sorted by type as best as possible, shredded and melted. Then they are made into granules (small balls) that end up in a new product. Think toys, flower pots, dashboards, garden chairs or pipes. You can also look at it as a recycling symbol. On the other hand, there’s no doubt that plastic recycling is 1 of the top recycling ideas in this day and age. In any case, it will be a continuous business for future entrepreneurs.

[earaercircular]

The obstacle course to 'green' Lego blocks

Lego has made a block out of recycled PET for the first time. A new step in the complex search for more sustainable variants of his iconic plastic toys, involving universities and companies such as Avantium[1], Indaver[2] and Ineos[3]. PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) is a type of plastic that is typically used to make soft drink bottles. “Through recycling, we can now make about eight classic Lego blocks from one such discarded bottle,” says Tim Brooks, sustainability director at the Danish company, as he shows a gray prototype. “It is the first time that we use PET as a raw material.”

Founded in 1916, Lego switched from wood to plastic to make toys in 1947. In 1958 it patented its typical building block: round studs at the top and hollow at the bottom. It conquered the world. The formula for success? Nearly indestructible blocks, with dimensions accurate to the hundredth of a millimeter so that all pieces from each set, from the 1970s to the present, click perfectly together and can be taken apart again. Time after time.

The essence

Lego makes 3,500 types of building elements, all of which it sells nearly 100 billion units a year. It uses 20 types of plastic for this, but 80 percent is made from the ultra-strong petroleum derivative ABS[4]. By 2030, Lego wants to switch completely to sustainable materials: recycled plastic or bioplastic. Lego is the largest toy manufacturer in Europe. In 2020, the company posted a turnover of 5.9 billion euros (+13 percent) and a net profit of 1.3 billion euros (+19 percent).

Half a billion

Technically ideal, but in times of growing environmental awareness and the pursuit of CO2 neutrality, this is by no means the way forward. It takes 2 kilograms of petroleum to make 1 kilogram of ABS. Not ideal for the reputation of a company that focuses on future generations. In interviews, CEO Niels Christiansen repeatedly said that he receives letters from young Lego fans who are concerned about the climate. So Lego announced a strategic shift in 2015: by 2030, the company only wants to use 'sustainable' raw materials for its toys. Do not read: no more plastic, but read: greener plastic. “There are two ways to do that,” Brooks says. “Or with more sustainable raw materials. So no plastics based on petroleum derivatives, but based on biological materials, such as plants, algae or even coffee residue. Or by recycling plastic. I estimate that will be the most important part.”

To make the change, Lego set up a Sustainable Materials Center in its Danish home base Billund, which now employs about 150 people. Since 2015, nearly half a billion euros in investments in research and development have been announced. “We do a lot ourselves. For the recycled PET, we ourselves looked for additional ingredients in the process. But of course we also work together with universities and a few dozen companies.”

Antwerp

There is ABSolutely Circular[5], for example, a European research project of chemical company Ineos - an important supplier of Lego anyway - and the Flemish environmental technology company Indaver for recycled ABS. In mid-July 2021 the first 10 kilograms of this were made at Ineos in Cologne. In a next step, there will be a small production in Antwerp, with a Lego block as a pilot product. Another example: Lego, together with the detergent manufacturer Henkel and the beer brewer Carlsberg, joined PEFerence[6], a project led by the Brussels-listed green chemical company Avantium to develop biological plastics. Partnerships are also underway with consumer goods groups Danone, L'Oréal and Bic and tire manufacturer Michelin. This is gradually producing the first results. In 2018, Lego presented a first small collection made of polyethylene based on sugar cane. It was a set of trees, plants and dragon wings. “These are more flexible elements,” explains Brooks, 'because it is a softer material that is not suitable for the hard blocks.'

The sugar cane cubes were an important milestone, but hardly the major turnaround. The material is suitable for barely 2 percent of the supply. But now there is a prototype made from recycled PET, which could possibly be used on a larger scale. Brooks doesn't want to put a number on that. “As much as possible, of course. But we still need to take steps to increase production. We hope to have the material effectively on the market in 18 to 24 months.”

Sweat

“The cover is very complex,” he explains. “Whoever makes children's toys cannot compromise on quality or safety. We go far into that. We test whether our blocks are resistant to sweat or saliva.” Lego simulates in tests the effect of biting with a force of 22.5 kilograms on a block. And whether nothing breaks off the block if it is crushed under a metal disc. "It shouldn't scratch or change shape or color if left in the sun for a long time." The challenge is then that the 'green' blocks have the same color and shine, even make the same sound. And above all: with the perfect coupling. “Our company is literally built on blocks that stick together and at the same time are easy to disassemble. That requires material with extreme precision. We have been perfecting ABS for fifty years. We are not there yet with the alternatives.” All kinds of problems arise in the experiments: the blocks shrink during production.

Source

STEPHANIE DE SMEDT, De Tijd, 23 juni 2021 https://www.tijd.be/de-tijd-vooruit/innovatie/het-hindernissenparcours-naar-groene-lego-blokjes/10315509.html

[1] https://www.brightlands.com/brightlands-chemelot-campus/companies-institutes/companies/company/avantium Avantium is a pioneer in the emerging industry of renewable and sustainable chemistry. [2] https://www.indaver.com/be-en/home/ Indaver – a European player with facilities and operations in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Ireland – manages and treats industrial and household waste in specialist facilities for businesses, waste collectors and governments. It recovers valuable raw materials from this waste that can replace primary raw materials. [3] https://www.ineos.com/ INEOS is a global chemical company. Its products touch every aspect of modern day life. It comprises 36 businesses with 194 sites in 29 countries throughout the world. [4] Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a common thermoplastic polymer. ABS provides favorable mechanical properties such as impact resistance, toughness, and rigidity when compared with other common polymers. [5] https://absolutely-circular.com/ The project, called LIFE ABSolutely Circular aims at demonstrating the environmental and economic benefits of using advanced recycling technologies to close the loop of plastic recycling. An initial key objective of the project is to demonstrate for the first time the production of ABS based on recycled feedstock taking advantage of advanced recycling technologies. [6] https://peference.eu/ PEFerence will establish a unique, industrial scale, cost-effective biorefinery flagship plant producing FDCA (furan dicarboxylic acid), a bio-based building block to produce high value products. Bio-based FDCA can be used to make a wide range of chemicals and polymers such as polyesters, polyamides, coating resins and plasticizers and, crucially, can also be used to make PEF (polyethylene furanoate), a 100 % bio-based polyester used to make bottles, films and fibres.

[advancehydrautech]

Waste Processing Made Easy with Automatic Baler - Countless Benefits to Avail

Environment concern- hot topic for everyone

There is no question that pollution and waste are increasing tremendously in our modern environment. Isn't it better, if the waste can be reused and treated, to use it? This is where Automatic Baler plays a major role. Waste Processing Machines are amazing! I do not think any more words are necessary to explain its importance in the current environment scenario!

Recycling is a hope - Automatic Baler is the way

Recycling and importing companies and traders handling substantial amounts of waste, such as paper waste, cardboard, PET bottles, foamed plastic, rubber, textile, and fabric waste are perfect candidates for automated balers. These horizontal balers can also be fully automated. An automatic baler can handle huge volumes of waste without employing a lot of people.

The automated balers can complete the entire process, from the fed waste input to the compaction and ejection of the bales. With its simple and easy-to-use interface, users can program and control bale weights and sizes, making it ideal to maximize container loads.

Baler machines are effective and economical waste management machines that allow users to leave large areas of storage free for other tasks, such as recycling. A baler machine chosen carefully can maximize all the benefits that can be gained from it. Despite their range in sizes and shapes, they have the same outcome.

Paper, cardboard, plastic packaging, dry office waste, office paper, shredding, newspapers, textiles, metal and plastic containers, plastic bottles, dry industrial waste, etc. can all be packaged by a baler machine. By baling, recyclable materials are created that are clean and ready to be recycled. Loose recycling bins easily require contamination and a small amount of contamination can spoil a load of recycling. Sustainable development!