photo by HT Fashion   the ‘Shallow Time’ water bar

Recently, the ‘Shallow Time’ water bar at the Group's headquarters tried to use biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) drinking cups for the first time by launching 300 large cups without logos for trial experience. This is an initiative of the Group to promote ESG responsibility, which was warmly welcomed by environmentalists.

As an alternative to conventional plastics, biodegradable plastics refer to plastics that can be degraded in nature by the life activities of microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, moulds, and algae, etc.), and include a number of species such as polylactic acid and polyhydroxyalkanoates. Biodegradable plastics become part of the carbon cycle when they are degraded. Biodegradable plastics are environmentally friendly as they completely decompose into water and carbon dioxide. Secondly, they can reduce dependence on traditional petrochemical resources, lowering energy consumption and carbon emissions. In addition, biodegradable plastics have properties similar to those of traditional plastics, making them a viable alternative to petrochemical plastics in many applications.

There is still academic controversy over the understanding of biodegradable PLA by studies that claim that without the right scenario conditions, it will not fulfil its ‘green’ properties. Research says that without the right scenario conditions, biodegradable plastics will not be ‘green’ and will still pollute the ecosystem. Professional recycling may become important.

Responsibility Editor: HT0601