Since plastic bubble wrap was first created in 1957, retailers and people in general have used it as an inexpensive and effective way to protect delicate goods. Unfortunately, that convenience has come at a price.
Bubble wrap is made from RIC4, a low-density polyethylene film (LPDF) that takes up to 1000 years to degrade. It’s used in astoundingly high quantities every year—approximately 200 million Americans use at least one roll or box of bubble wrap in 6 months, according to research by Statista.
While bubble wrap can be recycled theoretically, it rarely is because it can’t be picked up curbside.
Overall, recycling plastic is becoming more difficult because of the volume generated. Studies show that despite a 50% increase in recycling volume, the amount of plastic packaging that wasn’t recycled has increased by 2.0 kg per EU resident since 2009.
The impact of plastic waste on the planet can’t be overemphasised—just ask the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Plastic has another problem: its production relies on burning fossil fuels, which is heating up the planet.
The good news is that more and more consumers are looking for sustainable alternatives to bubble wrap.
