When it comes to adding some sparkle to our lives, glitter is the obvious choice. It's fun, flirty, and adds a shine that can't be wronged. But have you ever stopped to think about the environmental impact of glitter? Unfortunately, traditional glitter is made of plastic and can pollute the environment, taking hundreds of years to decompose. In contrast, biodegradable glitter promises to glitter without leaving a toxic trace. In this blog post, we will compare traditional and biodegradable glitter and see which one is better for the environment.
Composition
Traditional glitter is made of small pieces of plastic. These microplastics can take up to 400 years to break down, depending on their size and the environment. If they are not disposed of properly, these shiny little pieces can end up in our waterways and harm marine life.
Biodegradable glitter, on the other hand, is made from plant-based or biodegradable materials, such as eucalyptus cellulose, which breaks down much faster than traditional glitter. It is often marketed as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional glitter and comes in a range of colors and sizes.
Environmental Impact
The impact of traditional glitter on the environment is alarming. Tiny plastic particles can attract toxins and pollutants, which then enter the food chain when consumed by fish, birds or other marine animals. The negative effects of plastic glitter are both biological and chemical, as microplastics can cause physical harm and chemical contamination.
Biodegradable glitter is a more sustainable option that is easier on the environment. It breaks down into natural materials that can be absorbed and processed by living organisms. The biodegradable glitter manufacturing process also produces less greenhouse gas emissions than traditional glitter production.
Cost
The cost of traditional glitter can vary greatly, depending on the quality and amount purchased. Biodegradable glitter is often a bit more expensive due to the manufacturing process and the materials used.
Final Thoughts
While both traditional and biodegradable glitter add sparkle, we must consider the environmental impact of our choices. Traditional glitter is a source of pollution that can harm marine life and pose chemical and biological risks. Biodegradable glitter, on the other hand, offers a more eco-friendly option that breaks down naturally and produces fewer emissions.
In conclusion, while we love the glittery fun, we have to ask ourselves if it's worth it if it's harming the environment. Biodegradable glitter offers a better alternative that we can indulge in without any guilt. At the end of the day, the environment is worth more than the sparkle.
References
- The problem with glitter: Environmental Science & Technology, 2017 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.7b00463
- Eucalyptus cellulose-based biodegradable glitter https://www.bioglitz.de/