On synthetics

Many synthetics invented after World War II have indeed been found to contain EDCs and PFAS chemicals. These chemicals have been linked to several health problems, including cancer, reproductive issues, and developmental delays.

EDCs, or endocrine-disrupting chemicals, can interfere with the body's hormone system. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a family of chemicals used in various products, including nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foam.

EDCs and PFAS chemicals, also known as "forever chemicals," stay circulating in the environment indefinitely and can be exposed through the atmosphere, food, and water. The effects of these chemicals can vary depending on the specific chemical, the level of exposure, and the individual's age and health.

There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that exposure to EDCs and PFAS chemicals can have many adverse health effects. Some of the potential health problems associated with exposure to these chemicals include Cancer, Reproductive issues, Developmental delays, Immune system problems, Liver damage, and Thyroid problems, only to be seen after three generations despite FDA an EPA regulations..

Plastic, Plastic, or no Plastic at all?

Plastic has become ubiquitous in our modern world, seemingly inescapable in our daily lives. From the moment we wake up and reach for a plastic toothbrush to the moment we go to bed and close our plastic blinds, we are surrounded by plastic.

This pervasiveness can create a sense of certainty, making it feel like there's no alternative to using plastic.

However, it is possible to live a life with significantly reduced plastic consumption, or no plastic at all, and many people around the world are doing just that.

TFA is firm to its stance that ALL PLASTICS ARE NOT RECYCLABLE and you should too.

While other forms of plastic can be “downcycled”, its final state is as problematic as others that stays the environment forever. As a precautionary principle, opting for materials like metal, glass, paper, and natural fabrics is a more sustainable and true-zero-waste approach. These materials can be readily recycled or composted, minimizing their environmental impact and promoting a circular economy.

Choosing materials like metal, glass, paper, and natural fabrics over plastics offers several environmental benefits. These materials are derived from renewable resources or recycled materials, reducing the need for extraction and processing of virgin materials. They are also durable and can be reused multiple times, extending their lifespan and reducing waste generation.

Additionally, metals, glass, paper, and natural fabrics have established recycling infrastructure, allowing them to be transformed into new products. Natural fabrics can even be composted, breaking down into organic matter that enriches the soil. By prioritizing these materials over plastics, we can minimize our environmental impact and move towards a more sustainable future.

On Energy and Pollution

A genuine zero-waste product must strive to minimize its environmental footprint throughout its entire lifecycle, encompassing resource extraction, manufacturing, usage, and disposal. This necessitates the utilization of sustainable materials, adoption of energy-efficient production processes, pollution prevention measures, design for durability and reusability, and ensuring end-of-life circularity.

However, achieving true zero waste remains a challenge in the current reality, as most products rely on energy sources that contribute to environmental degradation. Fossil fuels, in particular, pose a significant challenge due to their inherent pollution and non-renewable nature.

Bio plastics are still plastics

Despite being derived from organic sources, bioplastics are still classified as plastics. The process of synthesizing and refining these materials often involves harsh chemicals and energy-intensive processes, which can negate their potential environmental benefits. As a result, bioplastics may not always decompose naturally and can contribute to pollution just like conventional plastics.

Translation

1. Ban plastics and polymers, other harmful synthetics, and materials in question.
2. quit excessive use of combustion and use clean-sourced electricity where possible instead
3. ONLY use the compost bin (for food scraps) and the recycle bin (not for plastics) INSTEAD of a landfill, trash, or garbage bin (these pollute even without plastics; anaerobic conditions cause worse emissions than aerobic conditions)

The whole point of "zero waste" isn't to bring trash to a landfill; it's to recycle, reuse, re-purpose, or compost (nature's recycling) everything and to "trash, landfill, or garbage" nothing.

Plastics don't recycle and are biologically harmful after they break down or leech. They contaminate water due to the EDCs and PFAS many plastics, polymers, and synthetics leech. #banplastics #UseThePrecautionaryPrinciple

The "Zero Waste Niche" is a growing movement that advocates for the production and consumption of products that are free from plastics, polymers, and synthetics. This niche aims to reduce the environmental impact of consumer goods by promoting sustainable alternatives that minimize Waste and pollution.