Did you know there are seven types of plastic?  This week I'll shed light on different types of plastic and their impact on your health and the Earth.... 

FACT:  According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 30 million tons of plastic waste were generated in 2009 and only seven percent was recovered for recycling.

PLASTIC TYPE PETE:
The first type of plastic, or polyethylene terephthalate ethylene (PETE), is what soft drink, juice, water, detergent, cleaner, peanut butter, and salad dressing bottles are made from.

HEALTH IMPACT:
One of the chemicals used to make PETE is antimony trioxide.  Antimony trioxide is a chemical that is also used in the production of flame retardant materials and creation of rubber. The chemical has undergone a number of tests for it’s carcinogenic properties and is definitely something you want to avoid exposing yourself, and your family to.  Additionally, PETE has been found to release endocrine disrupting chemicals into its contents. These chemicals are released in higher amounts when a bottle is emptied and refilled.  Reusing a bottle may seem like an environmentally friendly thing to do but you are exposing yourself to higher levels of endocrine disruptors that can result in hormonal problem, miscarriages, fertility issues, and developmental delays in children.  Plastic bottles shouldn’t be reused – rather be sure to recycle them.

Oddly, PETE is considered to be among the safest of plastics.  How is it possible that a material known to leach health harming chemicals is deemed the safest to use.  Since when does “safe” include compromising one’s health?

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:
PETE, like other plastics, is made from petroleum.  Petroleum is a non-renewable energy source that is costly to produce and import to the United States.  Plastic is also a material that never goes away.  Once produced plastic can be recycled and made into something new but will never leave the Earth.  Plastic goes through a breakdown process in which it photodegrades.  As something photodegrades it turns into tiny microscopic toxic pieces that will eventually enter, and contaminate, waterways, soils, and the air we breathe.

RECYCLE:
PETE can be recycled via most city curbside programs.  To find your closest PETE recycling center visit Earth 911.

TAKE ACTION:
Challenge yourself to purchase a stainless steel water bottle, buy products packaged in glass or cardboard, and to ensure the plastic bottles you do use actually make it to a recycling station.  Your minor efforts will reduce your exposure to carcinogenic chemicals and keep toxic materials from entering the Earth.

Want more eco tips like this one?  Visit Fashioning Change for daily eco tips, to start a green "To Do" list, or to send friends eco challenges on Facebook.