Over 855 billion single-use sauce packets are disposed each year – that’s enough to cover the entire surface on Earth!
According to Sian Sutherland, co-founder A Plastic Planet, “The plastic sachet, the ultimate symbol of our grab-and-go convenience-addicted lifestyle, has been virtually invisible to all…Our Earth is saturated with these non-collectable, non-recyclable, contaminated, valueless little packets. It’s time to close the legal loophole.”
But what’s the big problem with sauce packets?
Whether they hold soy sauce, ketchup, or other condiments, these packets are usually constructed from an aluminum-plastic combination, making them very difficult to separate for recycling. So most places just won’t do it.
In 2018, Kraft Heinz Co. announced its goal of making 100% of its packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable within seven years.
But as we know, making something “technically” recyclable, reusable or compostable isn’t enough. Like “reusable” thin plastic grocery bags.
Companies should be taking back their own packaging and closing the loop instead of putting that responsibility on the consumer. Or maybe find a better solution all together! Like refills!
What are some everyday items that you’d like to see with sustainable packaging?
Sources: A Plastic Planet, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, Heinz, CityLab
Zero Waste California 