Clay: Nature's Solution To Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, with plastic waste contaminating ecosystems and causing irreversible damage to the environment and human health. One way to combat this crisis is by using eco-friendly alternatives, such as clay, instead of plastic. Unlike plastic, natural clay is biodegradable and does not contribute to the accumulation of permanent waste in landfills and oceans. Clay is a versatile material that can be used for various purposes, from crafting and modelling to creating durable items like jewellery. Paper clay, for instance, is made from natural materials and is non-toxic and biodegradable, making it a sustainable alternative to plastic. By choosing clay over plastic, individuals and industries can play a crucial role in reducing plastic pollution and mitigating its harmful effects on the planet and human well-being.

Use natural clay, not polymer clay

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue that is threatening our ecosystems and health. To tackle this, it is essential to reduce plastic use and switch to eco-friendly alternatives. One such alternative is natural clay, which is a more sustainable option compared to polymer clay.

Polymer clay, a mix of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), pigments, and plasticisers, has gained popularity due to its versatility and ease of use. However, it contributes to plastic pollution due to its non-biodegradability. Once baked, polymer clay items can last for years without breaking down, ending up in landfills or the ocean. The breakdown of PVC releases harmful chemicals, contaminating ecosystems, and posing health risks.

On the other hand, natural clay offers a more environmentally friendly choice. Water-based clays, for example, are made from simple ingredients like water and clay, making them non-toxic and environmentally friendly. They are smooth, easy to work with, and inexpensive. Similarly, oil-based clays are considered safe as they are made from naturally occurring minerals, oils, and waxes. They are reusable and do not stick to surfaces.

Another sustainable clay alternative is paper clay, a mixture of regular clay and paper pulp, usually made from leftover scraps. Being composed of natural materials, paper clay is biodegradable and non-toxic. It can be fired in a kiln but is more durable when air-dried, making it a more energy-efficient option.

By choosing natural clay over polymer clay, individuals can play a part in reducing plastic pollution. Natural clay alternatives are biodegradable, non-toxic, and energy-efficient, offering a more sustainable approach to crafting and helping to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic pollution.

Reduce plastic use

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue, with plastic waste pervading our ecosystems and posing a serious danger to marine life and human health. To reduce plastic use, consider the following actions:

Reuse and recycle

Before throwing away plastic items, consider whether they can be reused or repurposed. For example, instead of buying new plastic items, look for second-hand options at thrift stores, garage sales, or online. Donate or sell your unwanted plastic items that are still in good condition, so others can reuse them. You can also recycle plastic items, but check with your local recycling program to find out which types of plastic they accept. Look into how to recycle plastic bags, wrap, and film in your area, as these items are recyclable but cannot be placed in your household recycling bin.

Reduce single-use plastic consumption

Single-use plastics, such as grocery bags, plastic wrap, disposable cutlery, straws, and coffee cup lids, are used once and then discarded. Reduce your reliance on these items by replacing them with reusable alternatives. For example, carry a reusable bag when shopping, use a reusable water bottle, and bring your own silverware and travel mug when on the go. When purchasing products, consider the product-to-packaging ratio and opt for items with minimal or no plastic packaging.

Avoid microplastics

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that can be ingested by marine animals and contribute to plastic pollution. Avoid products containing microplastics, such as synthetic fibers in clothing made from nylon, acrylic, polyester, and fleece. Choose natural fiber clothing and rugs, such as cotton, linen, wool, or rayon, which do not shed microplastics. Also, be cautious when purchasing cosmetics, as many contain microplastics. Opt for natural exfoliants like oatmeal or salt, and choose products packaged in glass or metal instead of plastic.

Support legislation and initiatives

Urge your local officials to implement or support legislation that discourages single-use plastic consumption. Support initiatives that promote plastic reduction, such as well-designed single-use plastic bag bans and incentives for using reusable alternatives.

By adopting these practices, you can significantly reduce your plastic consumption and contribute to the global effort to curb plastic pollution.

Recycle and repurpose

Recycling and repurposing are effective ways to reduce plastic pollution. While clay itself can be recycled and repurposed, it is important to note that polymer clay, a mix of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), pigments, and plasticizers derived from salt and oil, does not biodegrade. This means that once it is baked, it can last for years without breaking down, contributing to plastic pollution.

Recycling and repurposing clay can be done through various methods, and it is important to recycle clay scraps properly to reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of clay pollution. Clay scraps can be collected and stored in a heavy-duty trash container to be recycled later. It is important to ensure that there is no non-clay debris mixed with the scraps, as foreign matter can cause problems during the recycling process.

One method of recycling clay scraps is to use a drill and paint mixer attachment to mix the clay with water in a bucket. This helps to break down the clay scraps and saturate them thoroughly. It is important to mix the clay for a sufficient amount of time to ensure a consistent texture. The wet scrap clay can then be dried on an absorbent surface, such as plaster bats or a HardiBacker Board, until it is ready for wedging and reuse.

Another technique for recycling clay involves wire wedging to remove air pockets, followed by cutting the clay into smaller sections and wedging them individually using methods such as the ram's head wedging method. The small balls of clay are then combined to form a larger lump of recycled clay. This process helps to improve the plasticity and workability of the recycled clay.

Additionally, it is important to consider the particle size distribution of clay when recycling. Clay is composed of different-sized particles, and the mixture of large and small particles contributes to its plasticity. By understanding this, one can avoid producing "short" clay, which is prone to cracking and has low plasticity. Recycling clay requires planning and adapting techniques to one's specific situation and equipment.

While this answer focuses on recycling and repurposing clay, it is important to note that reducing plastic pollution requires a comprehensive approach. This includes reducing plastic use, supporting global treaties and local bans on single-use plastics, and making conscious choices to minimize plastic waste in our daily lives.

Avoid products with plastic microbeads

Plastic microbeads are small pieces of plastic with a diameter of less than a millimetre to a millimetre and a quarter. They are commonly found in cosmetic and skincare products, such as facial scrubs, body washes, toothpastes, soaps, sunscreens, detergents, and lotions. The small size of microbeads allows them to pass through water-treatment plants and end up in oceans, contributing to plastic pollution.

To avoid products with plastic microbeads, it is important to carefully read the ingredient lists on product labels. Campaigns like 'Beat the Microbead' have introduced the 'Zero' label in partnership with manufacturers to help consumers identify products that do not contain microplastics. It is also recommended to opt for natural exfoliants, such as oatmeal or salt, instead of microbead-containing products.

Some of the commonly used microplastics in cosmetics and personal care products include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and nylon. These microplastics can have negative health impacts, as they can be absorbed by the body and carry other pollutants. Additionally, they can be consumed by marine life, working their way up the food chain.

By avoiding products with plastic microbeads, individuals can play a role in reducing plastic pollution and its environmental and health impacts. It is a small but significant step towards making our lifestyles more sustainable and reducing the presence of plastic in our ecosystems.

Choose eco-friendly alternatives

Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, with plastic waste contaminating ecosystems and causing irreversible damage to the environment and human health. To combat this crisis, it is essential to choose eco-friendly alternatives to plastic products. Here are some ways to make environmentally conscious choices and reduce your plastic footprint:

Choose natural clay over polymer clay: Unlike polymer clay, natural clay is biodegradable and does not contribute to the accumulation of plastic waste. Natural clay options include water-based clays like Crayola Air Dry Clay, AMACO Magic Mud, and Crayola Model Magic. These clays are typically made from ingredients like flour, cornstarch, cream of tartar, oil, and water, making them safe for both children and the environment. Oil-based clays are another eco-friendly alternative, as they are made from naturally occurring minerals, oils, and waxes. They are reusable, non-sticky, and do not air-dry, making them a sustainable choice.

Opt for eco-friendly modelling clay: Paper Clay, a mixture of regular clay and paper pulp, is a sustainable and non-toxic option. It is made from natural materials and is biodegradable. Paper Clay is durable when air-dried, and it does not require any energy or produce fumes during the drying process. Cold Porcelain is another eco-friendly modelling clay that is non-toxic and safe to use.

Reduce single-use plastic consumption: Single-use plastics, such as plastic bottles, are a major contributor to plastic pollution. Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and save money. Avoid beauty products with microplastics, as these can slip through water-treatment plants and harm marine life. Choose products with natural exfoliants like oatmeal or salt instead. Be cautious when purchasing cosmetics, as many brands still contain microplastics.

Support global initiatives and local efforts: Stay informed about global treaties and agreements aimed at curbing plastic pollution. Research shows that bans on single-use plastics and incentives for eco-friendly alternatives can significantly reduce plastic waste. Get involved with local initiatives, such as beach clean-up programmes or community recycling projects, to actively contribute to the reduction of plastic pollution in your area.

Recycle and repurpose: Recycling is a crucial step in tackling plastic pollution. However, it is important to note that recycling alone will not solve the plastic pollution crisis. Nonetheless, actively recycling and repurposing plastic items can help reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills and give new life to plastic materials.

Frequently asked questions