The recent findings by the 5 Gyres research institute on the durability of bioplastic straws have sparked concerns about the efficacy of so-called biodegradable products in addressing plastic pollution. The institute’s Better Alternatives 3.0 report reveals that while bioplastics generally degrade faster than traditional fossil-derived plastics, the rate of degradation varies significantly among different types. In a comprehensive study involving 22 types of single-use packaging tested in both soil and sea over 64 weeks, researchers found that certain bioplastic products, including straws made from polylactic acid (PLA), remained largely intact after more than a year underground, irrespective of climate and soil conditions.

Lisa Erdle, director of science and innovation at 5 Gyres, emphasizes that the study underscores the lack of a one-size-fits-all solution to the plastics crisis. Despite the biodegradable labelling on many bioplastics, the research shows that some products, such as forks, bottles, and tampon applicators, exhibited little to no signs of degradation. Erdle suggests that targeted solutions are needed for each sector of plastic use, emphasizing the importance of addressing specific industries like textiles, agriculture, and electronics. While Erdle acknowledges that bioplastics may offer potential to mitigate harm in certain cases, she emphasizes the need for transparency in marketing and clearer labelling to avoid misleading consumers about the environmental impact of disposable products.

Marcus Eriksen, co-founder and researcher at 5 Gyres, stresses the importance of greater transparency and accurate messaging regarding disposable products. The study highlights the real-world factors that impact the degradation of bioplastics in different environments. Eriksen argues for clearer definitions and conditions for terms like “biodegradable” or “compostable,” advocating for truth in advertising to provide consumers and manufacturers with accurate information about the environmental impact of products. The results of the study suggest that while bioplastics offer an alternative to traditional plastics, there is a need for a nuanced approach to address the complexities of plastic pollution across various sectors.

Upcycled guitar made into bookcase / shelf. Very very unique!!
Add a touch of music to your livingroom, bedroom or any room you’d like! Your can purchase one and will be delivered in a sturdy cardboard box and bubble wrap, packaged with love from the link below…

#1.

#2. Turn a Guitar Into a Ceiling Light Fixture

See more at: Turn a Guitar Into a Ceiling Light Fixture

#3.

Image: Pinterest

#4. A Dollhouse Built Inside of a Guitar

See more at: A Dollhouse Built Inside of a Guitar

#5.

Image: Pinterest

#6.

Image: Pinterest

Find more HERE…

In a surprising turn of events, Lego, the iconic toy brick manufacturer, has decided to abandon its ambitious plans to produce bricks from recycled plastic bottles. The company had initially set out on this eco-friendly initiative with the intention of reducing its environmental footprint by incorporating recycled materials into its manufacturing process. However, after thorough projections and assessments, Lego concluded that adopting this recycled plastic bottle material at scale would ultimately result in a higher carbon footprint, counteracting the intended environmental benefits. The study conducted by the company shows that the retooling needed in its factories to process rPET would leave a higher carbon footprint than the good deed itself.

Lego’s decision underscores the complexities and challenges associated with sustainable manufacturing practices. While the initial goal was to contribute to a more environmentally friendly approach, the company’s commitment to maintaining a low carbon footprint forced them to reconsider their strategy. This shift highlights the importance of conducting thorough life cycle assessments and environmental impact analyses in sustainable initiatives, ensuring that the long-term consequences align with the desired ecological outcomes. As Lego navigates the delicate balance between innovation and environmental responsibility, this experience serves as a valuable lesson for industries seeking to adopt sustainable practices in a genuinely impactful and thoughtful manner.

This man from Minnesota has turned his over 50 years of experience as a sheetmetal worker into a hobby that has a way of dropping a jaw or two. Harvey Fisher points proudly up at his masterpieces, sitting up on a high shelf in his garage, safely out of harm’s way. “These are all made out of aluminum cans,” he said of the two tractors and the trailer that is hooked up to the big John Deere 40-10 replica. “Pop cans, beer cans, tomato juice cans…whatever I can get a hold of.” Each John Deere replica sits a couple of feet high, and each is made of roughly 250 to 300 aluminum cans.

Companies are searching for ways to deal with the tens of thousands of blades that have reached the end of their lives.

A wind turbine’s blades can be longer than a Boeing 747 wing, so at the end of their lifespan they can’t just be hauled away. First, you need to saw through the lissome fiberglass using a diamond-encrusted industrial saw to create three pieces small enough to be strapped to a tractor-trailer.

Tens of thousands of aging blades are coming down from steel towers around the world and most have nowhere to go but landfills. In the U.S. alone, about 8,000 will be removed in each of the next four years.

Wind turbines harness the kinetic energy of wind and convert it into mechanical energy to generate electricity. Electricity generated in this way is self-replenishing and produces no emissions harmful to our earth’s atmosphere, which is why it’s considered a form of renewable energy.

But for a form of energy to be considered truly ‘green’ – where it has a zero or less-than-zero impact on the environment across its lifespan in terms of waste and emissions – it’s important to also consider its end-of-life environmental impact.

Could wind turbines become 100% sustainable?

For wind turbines to be considered totally sustainable they must be built from 100% recyclable products. That’s why engineers across the world are now focusing efforts on designs that use materials such as thermoplastics that are biodegradable, or that can be reconstituted at the end of their lives.

Needless to say, even in their current form, the positive environmental impact of wind turbines far outweighs the negative, in terms of the critical role they play in reaching a net zero future.

LED solar wine bottle lighthouse for your garden beauty. Bright and cheerful. Really a pretty addition to any flower bed or garden. These are handmade and are available in the below…

Find it HERE…

Sue Beatrice resides in Sea Cliff, NY and has been a professional artist for over 30 years. Sue attended the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts before joining The Franklin Mint where she honed her talents and broadened her knowledge of sculpture.

Last year we created a cardboard sculpture of two lions in love that we called “DEVOTION” which went viral.

In the non-commercial realm, Sue also owns All Natural Arts, a venue for selling her unusual and unique steampunk and nature inspired antique pocket watch sculptures as well as her paintings, and other personal art forms. Sue’s watch sculptures are created with antique parts and combine the beauty of the delicate inner workings of the time pieces with a variety of themes ranging from nature, love, mortality and even scenes from history. Her one-of-a-kind designs are sought after by galleries and collectors all over the world.

Credit/Creators: Sue Beatrice & Andy Gertler

These adorable angels were handmade using denim jean pockets. Every one of them are different. All colors of jeans were used and the sizes range from 3 to 6 inches. These are the absolute perfect gift for any occasion. Christmas, birthday, new baby, graduation, anniversary. Find this Denim Pocket Angel on Etsy in the link below…

Find it HERE…

These are authentic handmade spoon rings crafted from upcycled silver plated flatware and wrapped in an overlapped band. Silver plated spoon rings give that vintage silver look, without braking the bank. Choose from 33 different styles ranging from floral to Victorian, and boho to minimalist. Because these are made from actuals spoons and forks, they are only adjustable with basic hand tools. Add personalized engraving or stamping to most styles. These are available on Etsy.