Plastic waste in water has long been one of the major pollution problems, but there may now be a solution in sight, according to a Reuters article by Irene Wang ( LINK ): “Researchers in Japan have developed a plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours, offering up a potential solution for a modern-day scourge polluting oceans and harming wildlife. … [T]he new material is as strong as petroleum-based plastics but breaks down into its original components when exposed to salt. Those components can then be further processed by naturally occurring bacteria, thereby avoiding generating microplastics that can harm aquatic life and enter the food chain.” A key factor will be persuading commercial users to adopt in this form of plastic. Doing so will likely take both social pressure perhaps financial incentives. Nonetheless, water soluble plastic could be important for preserving God's creation.
Plastic is everywhere in our lives, but it is not necessary to use plastic for Christmas decorations. Prior centuries enjoyed many degradable ornaments for their Christmas trees. Perhaps the most common natural ornaments are made from popcorn strings with dried fruit such as cranberries or cherries for colour. Candles were traditional lighting decorations too, but anyone using candles needs to be aware of the fire danger. A dry tree poses special risks, and a nearby fire extinguisher is a good precaution, but proper care reduces the risk: spraying the needles of the tree with water can help, and placing the candles away from other boughs. Above all, care is needed, but the effort is well worthwhile to help to preserve God's creation. Thanks to Oskar and Rachel for the suggestion!
The EU’s Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) was launched in October 2021 as "part of the EU’s broader effort to help cities use resources more efficiently and reduce waste. ... This initiative is also a key part of the European Green Deal – the EU’s overarching plan to grow the economy while protecting the environment. " ( LINK ) Reuse is an important environmental measure. "“The carbon footprint of reused elements is just 5 % of that of newly produced ones,” said Huuhka, who coordinates the ReCreate initiative." ( LINK ) These kinds of initiatives need to be publicised and encouraged in protect God's creation. (from Horizon: the EU Research & Innovation Magazine : LINK )
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