The European Union wants to reduce the presence of microplastics and their sale, which is why they will no longer be sold as of October 17, 2023.
Glitter has been used throughout history to enhance beauty and creativity in various forms of artistic and decorative expression. From greeting cards and craft projects to fantasy makeup and fashionable clothing, glitter adds a touch of sparkle and glamour to many areas of everyday life.
How does glitter affect the environment?
Glitter can affect the environment in several ways, and these environmental concerns are mainly due to its composition and the fact that glitter particles are small and can disperse easily.
Plastic pollution
Most traditional glitter is made from non-biodegradable plastics or synthetic materials that do not break down easily in the environment. When discarded or washed away, these plastic particles can accumulate in the environment, contributing to microplastic pollution.
Water pollution
Glitter particles can reach bodies of water, such as rivers and oceans, through wastewater or waste. There, they can be ingested by marine life, potentially affecting organisms and the food chain. In addition, glitter in water can alter water quality and have negative effects on aquatic ecosystems.
Impact on wildlife
Accidental ingestion of glitter by land and marine animals can cause health problems, such as intestinal blockage and damage to internal organs. In addition, wildlife exposure to chemicals present in glitter can also be harmful.
Are there alternatives to glitter?
Biodegradable glitter is a type of glitter designed to be more environmentally friendly than traditional glitter.
The characteristics of biodegradable glitter generally include:
- Natural ingredients: Biodegradable glitter is usually made from natural and biodegradable materials, such as cornstarch, mica, seaweed, or even gelatin. These materials are less harmful to the environment than the conventional plastics used in traditional glitter.
- Biodegradability: The ingredients used in biodegradable glitter can be broken down by microorganisms and natural processes in the environment, meaning that over time they decompose into harmless elements without leaving microplastics or harmful residues.
- Lower environmental impact: Because it can decompose more effectively, biodegradable glitter has a reduced environmental impact compared with conventional glitter.
Given the growing interest in sustainability and reducing environmental pollution, biodegradable glitter has gained popularity as a more ecological and responsible alternative to traditional glitter.
However, it is important to continue using biodegradable glitter responsibly and avoid excessive use to minimize any negative impact on the environment.