Wet wipes are a modern, very convenient and quick way to freshen up, clean up and get rid of dirt. However, this is perhaps the most environmentally harmful product, which only plastic bags can compete with in terms of pollution. And that's why:
Wet wipes do not decompose.
The wipes contain a mixture of synthetic cellulose and plastic fibers that do not rot or decompose. It takes about 100 years for the napkin to break down into microscopic fibers, however, this does not mean at all that it has dissolved and no longer harms the environment. Just like all other plastic, these fibers end up in water bodies, in the organisms of animals and fish, and, in the end, in the human stomach.
The wipes themselves are impregnated with a chemical composition of preservatives, oils, fragrances and antibacterial agents that heavily pollute the soil and the world's oceans.
Wet wipes are almost impossible to recycle.
The materials that make up wipes are very difficult to recycle, so even in developed countries they are often thrown into containers for non-recyclable waste.
Wet wipes clog city sewers.
Some people carelessly toss used tissues down the toilet. As a result of the accumulation of wipes in city sewers, blockage occurs with grease and other water-insoluble substances. Sometimes these plugs can reach huge sizes.
Animals die from them.
Tissue consumption has reached incredible levels. Studies in some countries give statistics of 25-30 napkins per 100 meters of beach. Just like plastic bags, wet wipes in the water are like jellyfish that many marine animals feed on. As a result of the accumulation in their stomachs of tissue that does not come out naturally, animals die of starvation in terrible agony.
Wet wipes cause allergic reactions.
Among other things, they can cause rashes and allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin, due to aggressive substances and fragrances in the composition.
Napkins really make our lives much easier when traveling, outdoors, in transport. However, in most cases they are used even when it is possible to wash hands with soap.
What can be done?
The most environmentally friendly substitute for napkins - washing hands with soap and water, or usebactericidal lotions and gels, which everyone appreciated during the pandemic.
Organize islands with dispensers on the site, make them visible and accessible for use.
If using napkins on the court is a necessity that you can't refuse, buy wipes only from recyclable materials and natural fibers which turn into compost over time.
They are more expensive, more like wet paper than the tissue paper we are used to, and tear easily, however, they decompose much more easily, they contain a minimum of fragrances, and they do not cause such irreparable harm to the environment.
In our country, not much attention has yet been paid to the problem of proper disposal and recycling, so use wet wipes only when there is no alternative, it is impossible to wash your hands, because reasonable consumption is an effective way to preserve the environment and the health of future generations.
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