6 Products Revolutionizing Recycling and Sustainability

Commercial Zone Blog

June 11, 2020

6 Products Revolutionizing Recycling and Sustainability

Product innovations have helped make our planet a cleaner, happier place. Check out these top six brands that have revolutionized recycling and sustainability.

Over just the past few years, several product innovations have helped make our planet a cleaner, happier place. A number of brands have utilized the simplest raw materials and advanced technologies to develop game-changing products made from unique eco-friendly resources.

Here are six examples of everyday products that are prioritizing sustainability.

Wood-Based Plastic

Scientific research and development company VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland recently developed a compostable material from forestry byproducts that uses the cellulose extracted from wood to create an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuel-based plastic packaging. For example, one of the many uses of this new material is stand-up food pouches.

Accessories from Recycled Water Bottles

Shoes and handbags that were once… water bottles? Rothy’s is an eco-conscious fashion footwear brand that manufactures sustainable, colorful accessories made from recycled plastic water bottles. These shoes are built to endure tough environments – they’re even washable, which can save money for shoe lovers in the long run.

Beeswax Food Wraps

Consumers can save energy and money on single-use plastic sandwich bags by instead using reusable beeswax food wrappers. Made by Bee’s Wrap, these rugged wrappers are made from organic cotton coated in sustainably sourced beeswax, organic jojoba oil and tree resin. They are an ideal alternative for packed lunches and stored leftovers.

Compostable Trash Bags

The use of plastic trash bags has increased steadily over the last few years. Compostable trash bags, like those made by household products company If You Care, are made from potato starch, without any plasticizers in sight. According to the brand website, the potatoes from which starch is extracted are “too high in starch to be good for food. Therefore, there is no diversion from food supplies.” So, potatoes that otherwise would have been tossed in the trash are now put to work holding the trash.

Cotton Produce Shopping Bags

While picking fresh produce, shoppers have the option to use durable cotton bags instead of flimsy plastic. Cotton bags are reusable, washable and sustainable. Plus, breathable cotton fabric keeps produce fresher longer, prevents premature ripening and bruising and can even be dampened to keep fruits and vegetables crisp.

Plastic-Free Chewing Gum

Chew on this! Most chewing gum contains traces of non-digestible plastic and other materials, such as rubbers and waxes, that don’t break down in the body. Simply Gum is a brand of chewing gum made with a base of chicle tree sap instead of plastic. (No wonder your folks told you to never swallow bubblegum.)

The Key to Innovation

Revolutionary ideas and product innovations are key to success. Commercial Zone is on its own meaningful mission to make the world a brighter, cleaner place with sustainable waste containers and site furnishings. Many Commercial Zone products use recycled and 100% post-consumer recyclable polyethylene. Brands from a wide variety of industries are prioritizing the environment through invention and originality, which is both exciting and inspiring.

If you would like to learn more about our commitment to sustainable practices, call 800-782-7273 or contact us online.