It’s Not Just Plastic Plant Pots…
The amount of plastic used in the garden is ridiculous!
We are all aware that plastic plant pots are widely used in gardens, however, plastic usage in gardening should be a major concern for gardeners of all ages and abilities. Its use contributes to landfill and environmental pollution in many ways.
While gardeners rightly focus on the growth and beauty of their flowers, fruits and vegetables, they often overlook the harmful effects of plastic manufacturing processes behind the gardening products and packaging they use. Plus the impact these materials have on the environment when needing disposal.
e-pots offer gardeners, growers and allotment holders a sustainable solution by providing eco-friendly gardening products and gifts that are not only practical and useful but also plastic-free.
Plastic plant pots are a prime example of excessive plastic usage in gardening. These types of plant pots are made from different types of plastics, and are widely used by gardeners, growers, and allotment holders.
However, most plastic plant pots cannot be easily recycled due to their composition and manufacturing processes.
What are plastic plant pots made from?
These plastic pots are commonly made up of hard or flexible materials, such as:
- Type 1 – (PET) Polyethylene Terephthalate* (*Thermoplastic)
- Type 2 – (HDPE) High Density Polyethylene
- Type 4 – (LDPE) Low Density Polyethylene
The difference in the recyclability of these plastic types can be down to how they are made.
- Thermoset plastics contain polymers that form irreversible chemical bonds and cannot be recycled, which is why many plastic plant pots are not suitable for recycling.
- Thermoplastics can be re-melted and re-moulded.
Plastic plant pots are mass produced using thermoset plastic and contain polymers that form irreversible chemical bonds and cannot be recycled. This is why many plastic plant pots are still not suitable for recycling despite rigorous environmental campaigning.
Does re-using pots help?
Very often, gardeners, growers and allotment holders will try to re-use plastic pots as often as practical but end up replacing these types of pots every few years as they reach the end of their useful life. Unfortunately, most cannot be recycled, and the result is the accumulation of plastic waste in landfill.
The use of plastic is not just limited to plant pots. For example, gardeners use plastic labels to specify the plant name and other vital details. Although it simplifies gardening, this generates more unnecessary plastic usage with each new plant. Similarly, gardeners use various pesticides and fertilizers to protect plants from pests and diseases, without even realising that the product they are using is derived from or contained in packaging made from petroleum. While these products offer a temporary solution, it leads to an accumulation of plastic waste.
Following are two eye-watering facts about the severity and damage of plastic gardening products:
- 500 million plastic plant pots are dumped in landfill – every year.
Source: Horticulture Week 2021 - 80 million Tons of plastic waste end up in our oceans – every year.
Source: Marine Conservation Society
What about packaging?
Plastic packaging is commonly used for compost, seed trays, and plant labels, and the use of pesticides and fertilizers, packaged in plastic containers derived from petroleum add to unnecessary plastic usage in gardening and contributes to the accumulation of plastic waste in landfill.
To address these issues, gardeners can opt for plastic-free alternatives such as coir fibre plant pots, biodegradable paper pots, and organic materials-based pots.
- Coir fibre pots, made from coconut husk fibres and natural latex, are durable, organic, and compostable.
- Biodegradable paper pots are perfect for seedlings and cuttings, as they can be planted directly into larger containers or garden soil without disturbing the roots.
- Wooden plant labels provide an eco-friendly option as they decompose over time
By embracing an eco-friendlier approach to gardening, gardeners not only reduce their plastic usage but also contribute to environmental protection and the well-being of wildlife.
At e-pots, we are dedicated to providing sustainable and eco-friendly gardening products in minimal plastic-free packaging.
Our range of products is derived from 100% sustainable natural materials by design. Our suppliers actively support our environmentally friendly ethos and only provide materials that are abundantly replenishable and planet friendly Our product range is continually expanding to meet the demands of wholesalers, retailers, and international orders.
To offset our carbon footprint, we plant a tree for every order placed.
This ensures our commitment to being a 100% green company.
Join us in our mission to #GoGreenToGrowGreen.