Ever use a paper cup? Perhaps you spotted one at a-coffee shop or used one at school during lunch or a class party. Though paper cups appear to be simple and convenient, they can create major issues for our environment. So today let's learn all about paper cups and some ways we can help take care of the Earth!
Paper cups seem innocent enough, but they have a special lining that prevents leaks. Again, why it would need to be coated in a thin layer of plastic that strengthens the cup. However, this same coating makes it nearly impossible to recycle the cups. The production and movement of these cups is energy intensive. This can polluted our air and damage our environment.
Throwing paper cups, you will generate a large amount of garbage. Try to picture billions of cups ending up in huge waste spaces known as landfills each year. These cups don’t just go away fast. In fact, they can take a LONG time to decompose in landfills -- much longer than you think!
Unlike what many people think, paper cups are not always recyclable. The cups have a special plastic coating that makes them extremely difficult for recycling centers to break down. So you could carefully place a paper cup in the recycling bin and still see it eventually land in the trash.
Paper cups can cause different issues, too. Others just toss them on the ground instead of putting them into a trash can. It makes our parks, our streets, our playgrounds look chaotic. And even worse, the animals might try to eat the cups or get tangled in them, causing them to get sick or injured.
Reducing cup use is the best way to help. If you are at a store or restaurant, consider bringing your cup from home. If you absolutely must use a paper cup, be diligent about placing it in the correct bin when you’re done with it.
It's important to remember, caring for our planet is something we can all do — even kids! By making positive decisions about how you handle cups, you are helping the Earth every time. It may seem like a trivial thing, but if enough of us make wise choices, we can create some serious impact.