As we are more aware of the importance of environmental protection, we begin to pay attention to the ecolabels on different products. Let's see what these labels mean.
Reusable
Most products (for example plastic bags, plastic tableware), except food, can be reused, but very often we do not do so. Some materials have to be reconditioned before being reused. Are we doing the right track now? |
Recycled
Recycled products are made from unwanted materials. However, sometimes these unwanted materials are brand new (for example residual raw materials, off-season products), and they are recycled into other products (usually of poorer quality). Is recycling meaningful here? |
Ozone Friendly
"Ozone friendly"often appears on the packages of aerosol sprays and products with polystyrene. However, other chemicals like trichloroethane, hydrochloro-flurocarbon and hydrocarbon, which also form fog on the ground, are sometimes used to substituted polystyrene. Therefore, "No CFCs" does not necessarily mean safe.
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Environmentally-Friendly
Whether a product is "environmentally-friendly" depends on what we mean by it. Theoretically, any product would lead to environmental problem. Energy and water are used in the production, which are disadvantageous to the environment. When products are disposed of, they produce waste problem. |
Biodegradable
Products which are "biodegradable" can be degraded by biochemical reaction of bacteria, thus alleviating waste problem. How much time is required in the process? Can all the poisonous substances be degraded? These vary with different products. |
