We all know them, we all use them: PET plastic bottles. But how much do we really know about this ubiquitous packaging?
A Brief History:
- 1941: PET (polyethylene terephthalate) was first created in Britain by John Rex Whinfield and James Tennant Dickson.
- 1973: DuPont patented the first PET bottle, revolutionising the beverage industry.
- Today: PET bottles are everywhere, from soft drinks to water, shampoo to cleaning products.
Why PET? The Benefits:
- Lightweight: Making them easy to transport and reducing fuel consumption.
- Strong and shatterproof: Protecting the contents and making them safe for on-the-go use.
- Recyclable: PET boasts one of the highest recycling rates of any plastic.
- Versatile: Can be moulded into different shapes and sizes, with varying clarity and colours.
- Cost-effective: Compared to alternatives like glass or aluminium.
The Downside:
Of course, no material is perfect. The main concerns with PET bottles are:
- Environmental impact: Though recyclable, many still end up in landfills or as pollution.
- Potential leaching: Some studies suggest chemicals may leach from the plastic into the contents, especially with reuse or heat exposure.