What’s Going On Here? This week Michelin, in collaboration with General Motors, have released the prototype for a new sustainable model of airless, puncture-proof tyre called “Uptis” (Unique Punctureproof Tire System). What Does This Mean? It is hoped that this new model (planned to be commercially available by 2024) will eliminate the possibility of blow-outs, punctures and wear and tear caused by over- and…
What’s Going On Here? Scientists at the University of Plymouth have found biodegradable plastic bags aren’t as biodegradable as they’re supposed to be. The finding supports curious.earth concerns that ‘biodegradable’ labelling is misleading consumers and validating single use consumption. What Does This Mean? Biodegradable plastics can be broken down by living organisms… but as the study shows it may take a rather long time…
What’s Going On Here? Evian, the French bottled water giant has released designs for its first reusable water bottle. Part of their wider sustainability strategy to become a ‘truly’ circular, carbon neutral company by 2020. Striving for Carbon Neutrality Today, all Evian water bottles are 100% recyclable and contain a minimum 25% recycled plastic. The new limited edition bottle consists of a…
What’s the problem with Air Pollution? The problem is simple. Air pollution is causing the premature deaths over around 9,500 Londoners every year. A joint report by over 40 MPs has described the problem as a public health emergency. The World Health Organisation have described it as the “single biggest environmental health risk” In April, during a particularly severe episode of pollution, London’s air quality was worse…
What’s Going On Here? Scientists have accidentally created a mutant enzyme that can break down single-use plastic drinks bottles. The enzyme could help solve the world’s plastic pollution crisis and also slash the need to produce new plastic! What Does This Mean? PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) is a type of plastic that is commonly used to make single-use plastic bottles. It is estimated that it…
What’s Going On Here? Microplastics are making their way from our food bins and into our food chain. These non-biodegradable fragments have been found in organic fertilisers applied to farmland. Could a simple cuppa be to blame? What Does This Mean? If we dispose of food waste, it goes to landfill (definitely not cool). But if we recycle it in food waste bins, it is…
What’s Going On Here? A year since announcing their partnership with Parley, Adidas has now sold over 1 million pairs of trainers made from 95% recovered ocean plastic, near the Maldives. Each pair is made from 11 plastic bottles. What Does This Mean? Back in 2016, only 50 pairs of plastic prototype trainers were available, but this had been scaled to 7,000 as…
What’s Going On Here? LEGO are swapping oil-base plastic for a plant-based alternative in SOME of their products. The Danish childhood-memory-maker and part-time toymaker announced the move on Thursday. Production has started and the products will be on sale later this year. What Does This Mean? Companies are feeling the pressure to change their production methods. And in the case of LEGO this…
