Water in plastic containers are in general not healthy, and the use of some kinds of containers contain cancer risk. Those kinds of grade plastics [number 3, 6 and 7) should not be used in food products. You will often find that they are used indiscriminately in Turkey. The numbers are on the bottom of cups and water containers, check before you drink.
“Smart Plastic Guide, Healthier Food Uses of Plastics” is a simple guide for plastic use. It is always better not to use any kind of plastic with your food.
In Turkey, some local governments are beginning to ban the use of plastic bags. From November 2010 onwards Dikili Belediyesi will only allow paper bags. They also asked the garbage to be pre-sifted in the form of plastic, metal and other waste. Kadıköy Belediyesi is also trying to eliminate plastic bags. Others are also doing it.
According to Istanbul Metropolitan Authority 1,000 Tons of plastic waste is produced everyday. These kinds of plastics takes more than 400 years to decompose. Biodegradable plastic alternatives like “ecoflex” brands are much more environmentally friendly.
A number of companies in Turkey like Murat Plastik produce Oxo-Bio degradable plastic that has a life cycle of months. Many conpanies are using eco-friendly bags. But, it still takes lots of energy and pollution to produce things that are used only once. We do not change our consumption habits.
It is not enough to go to the store with a bag that you always use, you must buy things that do not come in plastic bags. You must stop buying from stores that are not environmentally conscious.
Something in a plastic bag means it can be used forever. Do you want to eat food that is forever? Do you want to eat fresh?
