Microplastics in ecosystems

Plastics are present in all industrial sectors. One of the biggest problems is that they have a higher molecular weight and are submerged by the force of gravity. They end up being ingested by marine animals and, consequently, by humans, as they are exposed to these particles in various ways.  

A recent study analyzed tap water from more than a dozen nations and concluded that the contamination rate in the samples taken was very high, with the lowest value being 72%. There is in fact a lot of evidence to show that the contamination of ecosystems by microplastics is a serious problem.  

Figure 1. Worldwide use of plastics by type of polymer  

Wastewater and drinking water treatment systems (WWTPs) based on sedimentation, filtration and biological treatments are practically the only approaches to minimize the spread of microplastics, which according to the available data, these systems are clearly insufficient.

In order to respond to the problem, Greendet has developed the bulk line, so that we can reduce plastic consumption by reusing the bottles.

The Bulk line is presented on the market with a manual range and a automatic range. The automatic bulk dispenser uses a dispenser and diluter for liquid detergents, allowing the consumer to select the product in advance, which will automatically dispense the amount of detergent selected. The machine also allows concentrated products to be diluted, obtaining up to 600L of final product with just 10L of the same concentrated product.  We have reduced packaging by up to 99%, the CO2 released during transportation and the space needed for storage.

Beyond the bulk line, Greendet is also developing a packaging line, starting with the creation of a cardboard bucket with 0% plastic (cord handle, metal lid) in partnership with an equally Portuguese company, after all “One small step for man, but one giant leap for mankind!” Neil Armstrong.