Our climate is slowly changing, and even modern life is affecting the environment. Along with these are environmental changes that affect human civilization and wildlife. Fortunately, with more and more people clamoring for better options, companies and organizations have slowly started stepping up, offering people products that are not harmful to the environment and its denizens.
The Advent of Plastic
It was in 1947 that plastic bottles first came into the scene. It was seen as a more practical alternative to the use of glass, which can be quite expensive and harder to prepare. At that time, though, the use of plastic was still on the higher end of the price spectrum.
It was only in the 1950s when the price point was no longer a problem. This happened because of the introduction of polyethylene, a synthetic material that made plastic more lightweight and has high impact strength. What made it a good option for manufacturers was that it purportedly had no negative effect on the environment. Unfortunately, plastic is still plastic. Although it is biodegradable, it can take time before it completely degrades, living still the possibility that it can harm animals and sea creatures.
A good alternative to plastics would still be its predecessors: glass or metal. What’s good about these materials is that they can both be reused over a period of time. By the time you are done with them, you can even repurpose them in your home. These materials are also recyclable, so you could take them to a recycling center near your area.
Tanks and Container Drums
Many companies in the business of transporting chemicals and other liquids must find other ways to transport these substances safely. There are alternatives for plastic bottles that are also lightweight and affordable, but when it comes to transporting crude oil and other kinds of hazardous chemicals, a stronger material is required. Fortunately, there are different ways these can be transported without harming the environment.
One option is with the use of tanker vessels and metal drums or tanks. If tanker vessels are not part of the options, rail cars, and marine vessels are also possible alternatives. Often in many cases, these drums are covered with a drum heater jacket to ensure that the viscosity of the liquid inside is maintained.
In some industries, pipelines are used to transport liquids across countries. This is a better option as there is a lesser risk of leaks and accidents. Studies have shown that leaks and spills typically happen during the loading of the barrels and transport, especially if the truck has to go through rough terrain.
Metal drums that have been used to transport chemicals and dangerous substances can be reused, but they must be cleaned thoroughly to ensure that the toxic or hazardous chemicals are completely removed. If a drum is considered unusable, it is shredded and recycled as other materials. There are companies that accept and clean these plastic and steel drums, as well as offer recycling services.
Protecting the earth requires more than our vigilance. It requires discipline and knowledge to know the kinds of chemicals we use in our homes.
