Issue Nº 503

Monday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• How plastic affects our planet

• Where do microplastics come from?

• Restore your youthful glow

• Surprising things you can't recycle

• A perfect investment opportunity

Did You Know?

Biodegradable plastics can take anywhere from three months to several years to decompose fully.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

How Plastic Actually Contributes To Climate Change

By now, we’ve all heard that plastic is not good for our environment, that we should cut back on plastic waste, and avoid single-use plastic whenever possible. But do you know how plastic actually contributes to climate change?

For starters, plastic is produced from fossil fuels, which, when extracted and refined, release significant greenhouse gases into our atmosphere. Next, during both production and disposal, plastics release potent greenhouse gases like methane and carbon dioxide, exacerbating the climate crisis and affecting communities and natural habitats globally.

Each step consumes a significant amount of energy, making plastic production a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, releasing an estimated 1.8 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Now, what about plastic’s afterlife?

Once finally discarded, plastic waste causes long-term environmental damage, polluting oceans, waterways, and soil, and degrading air quality. Every year, plastic debris in water bodies results in the deaths of over 100,000 aquatic animals and microplastics, ingested by fish, end up in our food chain.

However, don’t forget that we can make a difference! By shifting towards more sustainable and durable materials, we can reduce our reliance on plastics. Embracing reusable items like metal straws, cloth bags, and glass containers not only cuts down on waste but also supports a healthier planet.

Every small change adds up, and together, we can pave the way for a cleaner, greener future!

Do You Know Where Microplastics Come From?

Microplastics – these tiny plastic villains, smaller than a grain of rice – are showing up in surprising places like our oceans, our food chain, and even in our blood, according to a recent study in Environmental Science & Technology Letters. But where do they even come from?

The first thing to know is that there are two types of microplastics: primary and secondary. Primary microplastics are tiny particles designed for commercial use, such as cosmetics and microfibers shed from clothing and synthetic textiles. Secondary microplastics result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, like water bottles, caused by the sun’s radiation and ocean waves.

The problem with microplastics is that—like plastic items of any size—they do not readily break down into harmless molecules. Plastics can take hundreds or thousands of years to decompose and, in the meantime, wreak havoc on the environment. On beaches, microplastics are visible as tiny multicolored bits in the sand.

Some of this environmental pollution comes from littering, but much results from storms, water runoff, and winds carrying plastic—both intact objects and microplastics—into our oceans. Single-use plastics, such as straws, are a primary source of secondary plastics in the environment. Microplastics have been detected in marine organisms from plankton to whales, in commercial seafood, and even in drinking water.

Alarmingly, standard water treatment facilities cannot remove all traces of microplastics. So to help reduce microplastics, we need everybody’s help to make a big difference. Opt for reusable items instead of single-use plastics, wash synthetic clothing less frequently or avoid it entirely, and use a microfiber filter in your washing machine. Opt for 100% natural fiber clothing when shopping, and avoid fast fashion at all costs. These small changes can help keep our waterways cleaner and our marine life safer.

Together, we can tackle the microplastic challenge and create a cleaner, healthier planet!

Restore Your Youthful Glow

Collagen loss as you age may result in weaker joints, wrinkles, and a decline in overall vitality. It’s a natural process, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do to slow it down. Replenishing collagen can restore your vibrancy and power, and the journey starts with NativePath.

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Thank you to NativePath for sponsoring The Canopy.

7 Surprising Things That Aren’t Recyclable

We've all probably been guilty of this recycling no-no at least once — discarding a disposable coffee cup or takeout container in a recycling bin. While you may think you're helping, your optimistic recycling might actually hinder the process.

Depending on where you live, some items simply aren't recyclable. Check with your city service provider for specifics, but here’s a general list of items that usually aren't recyclable and suggestions on how to dispose of or reuse them.

1. Aerosol Cans

They may be metal, but spray cans contain propellants and chemicals, making them hazardous materials in most municipal systems.

2. Ceramics and Pottery

This includes coffee mugs and other similar items. Consider using them in your garden as planters or decorative elements instead.

3. Household Glass

Items like window panes, mirrors, light bulbs, and tableware are impractical to recycle. Bottles and jars are usually fine, though. Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) are recyclable but should be handled carefully due to their mercury content.

4. Coated Cardboard Drink Containers

Unless specially marked as recyclable, these are generally not suitable for reprocessing. This includes juice boxes and many disposable coffee cups from local coffee shops.

5. Napkins and Paper Towels

These items are discouraged because of what they may have absorbed. Composting is a better option. Tissues and napkins typically hold too much residue to recycle.

6. Pizza Boxes

The grease content is too high for recycling. While some composters avoid pizza box cardboard, others have no problems. It's either compost or the trash.

7. Plastic Screw-On Tops

Dispose of these separately from recyclable plastic bottles. Remember that smaller caps can be a choking hazard.

Your local recycling system has the final say on what belongs in your bin. Some areas restrict more items than listed, while others have special programs for dealing with problematic materials.

Another great resource is to check out Earth911’s website to see the recycling services available in your area. Let's all make an effort to recycle smarter and keep our environment cleaner!

Invest in the Asset Class Predicted to Grow +$700 Million by 2026

Looking to make smart money moves in 2024? How about investing in a market that's predicted to grow by nearly +$700m over the next few years, according to Deloitte.

Fortunately, it's never been easier for everyday investors to take advantage of this growth trend, thanks to the top platform for investing in shares of blue-chip art, Masterworks.

Masterworks clients have already entrusted the platform with $1 billion. Isn’t it time you joined them?

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Thank you to Masterworks for sponsoring The Canopy.

Reflections:

• 🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured in next Wednesday's newsletter!