Abstract This paper discusses the market opportunities for biodegradable shopping bags in Nova Scotia. It analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of biodegradable bags, as well as reusable bags and plastic bags, in order to identify the key internal and external factors that need to be taken into consideration when analyzing where the biggest market opportunities lie. The paper includes the complete text of the proposed Bill 390 (which will prohibit the distribution of non-biodegradable plastic bags), as well as presentation slides for the information in the paper.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Definition
Current Market Opportunities in Nova Scotia
Biodegradable Bag Manufacturers in Nova Scotia
SWOT Analysis for Biodegradable Bags
SWOT Analysis for Reusable Bags
SWOT Analysis for Plastic Bags
Laws and International Trends that Could Initiate a Market Shift
What is the State of the Debate in Canada?
Bans and International Trends
Conclusions
Recommendations
Appendices
From the Paper "Competition from reusable bags is another very real threat to the market for biodegradable bags since there is a risk that "with the sale of reusable bags, consumers could wean themselves off plastic bags altogether." As was mentioned in the Weaknesses section of this report, reusable bags are environmentally preferable to all disposable bag alternatives, including biodegradable bags; in addition, evidence suggests that reusable bags are actually becoming trendy while plastic bags are becoming unfashionable. A designer cloth bag proudly emblazoned with the words "I'm not a plastic bag" sold out the day it was released at Holt Renfrew stores across Canada and "those lucky enough to snag the $18 bag can now sell it on eBay for more than $150." Therefore, although biodegradable bags are different from conventional plastic bags, their similar appearance may decrease their social acceptability if these trends continue. Furthermore, "major lobby groups [such] as the Canadian Plastics Industry Association, the Canadian Council of Grocery Distributors and the Retail Council of Canada promote reduction and recycling over [biodegradable] plastic bags." "
Abstract This paper discusses how plastic utensils are harmful to ecosystems and not environmentally friendly whatsoever. This paper takes a non-environmentally friendly product and make it biodegradable. Further discussion surrounding the fast food industry and how these restaurants are big plastic wasters. Fast food restaurants (i.e. McDonald's) in a number of countries in Europe (i.e. Germany, Austria, and Sweden) have stopped using plastic utensils and have started using biodegradable folks, spoons and knives made from cornstarch.
From the Paper "Due to increasing public demand for corporations to become more environmentally responsible (purpose), some fast food restaurants are using biodegradable utensils (solution) rather than plastic. Biodegradable spoons, forks, and knives are made of cornstarch and are being tested in European markets by McDonald's. The question is whether or not other fast food restaurants will follow suit. "
Abstract This paper explains that, at one time, there were no problems with landfills because trash, such as wood, paper, oxidizable metals and organic garbage, was biodegradable; now, Styrofoam and other plastic based wrappings and containers, in which almost everything is over-wrapped, survive decomposition for decades and decades even when crushed. The author points out the problems of trash handle in the 21st century are: (1) Landfills are filling up at an astronomical rate, (2) they are not decomposing at the rate they used to before non-biodegradable items were being added, (3) because of this inconsistent rate of biodegradability, many landfills are developing large pockets of methane gas and leachate or "garbage juice", which is a potential threat to the ground water and (4) companies are dumping highly toxic materials in the landfill. The paper stresses that the only ways we are going to make landfills nearly obsolete are by recycling, which must be supported by very strong recycling laws, and by seeking improved technologies for waste disposal and long-term chemical contamination.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Hazardous Waste and Landfills
Problems with Non Hazardous Landfills
Conclusion
From the Paper "According to the group "Make Less Waste", waste prevention is any practice that reduces the amount or toxicity of waste, including making goods last longer, reusing products and reducing packaging. It's a good way to save money, reduce pollution and conserve energy. They point out some ways we can reduce the amount of waste we generate. Some suggestions include avoiding "over-packaged" products. We should look for the most purposeful, least wasteful packaging. We should re-use or refuse shopping bags and bring your own bags. One of the best ways of making less waste is to avoid disposable versions of razors, pens, lighters, batteries, plates, cups, napkins and diapers. We cam choose products made from recycled material and buy products in glass, steel, or aluminum because all of these products have some recycled content and can be recycled. If we buy concentrates, "economy" sizes, and products selected from bulk bin, we save on packaging waste. To reduce fast food packaging, ask that your fast food be wrapped only in paper and refuse bags and Styrofoam boxes. Instead of throwing them away, donate used items such as clothes, furniture and books to charitable organizations."
This paper discusses De Graaf, Wann and Naylor's "Affluenza", a social diseases of today's affluent American society characterized by over-consumption, social disintegration, and environmental degradation.
Abstract This paper explains that "affluenza" is a social problem, which emerged from the success of capitalism and modernism in America. The author points out that the book states that, in America, a strong and good family relationship is determined through the family's capability to spend money, which the family members think is beneficial to their relationship. The paper states "affluenza" creates a blatant disregard for the physical environment because the lifestyle of the affluent American produces more waste than ever in the history of human society by the proliferation of plastic-made, particularly disposable, other non-biodegradable materials and hazardous waste materials.
From the Paper "Over-consumption was the American psyche that reflected how people considered excessive consumption as the immediate 'solution' in dealing with the stress that come with everyday life. Ironically, what the authors imparted in the book was that Americans worked very hard in order to financially support the lifestyle that they cannot maintain, much less enjoy (40). This realization showed that Americans were not living life as they aspired it to be: the comfort available to them only caused stress and bankruptcy. Bankruptcy resulted from over-spending and not being able to pay for these excessive purchases, while stress was caused by the need to alleviate one's sudden feelings of emotional instability and the pressure to keep up with other people's apparent ascent towards 'affluence'."
Abstract This paper examines how, although plastic seems to be as indispensable as glass and metal for use in everyday life, it can be argued that no other material has had as immense an impact on the decline of the environment as plastic and the methods used in its production. It looks at such alternatives as biopolymer plastics and compares the functionality between the bio-derived and the synthetic plastic product.
From the Paper "It was estimated that in the year 2000 alone, more than 148 million tons of plastics were used worldwide in consumer and industry applications. Further, internationally, plastic use is projected to continue to rise (depending on location) at a rate of 4.8-5.2% annually. Of course, the main reason plastics are used so widely is their amazing ability to function in infinite capacities-car parts, industrial applications, medical instrumentation and equipment, consumer containers, food distribution and preservation, and high-tech components to name just a few. Yet, in its most popular forms, plastic is also highly polluting both in its production, as well as in its inability to degrade back into the natural environment."
Abstract This paper discusses the increase in biodegradable plastics made from genetic modification of crops like soya and corn.
From the Paper "The words biodegradable and plastic were viewed as an oxymoron in the past. No longer are these two words incompatible. For scientists working on genetically modified (GM) foods were not daunted by public reluctance to consume (GM) foods and have turned their attention to non-food (GM) products. Biodegradable plastics for containers packaging grocery bags and other products exist from companies like BASF, Metabolix and others. Monsanto and Britain's ICI experimented with biodegradable plastics made from genetically modified materials but dropped their respective projects in the..."
Abstract This paper explains that biomaterials are synthetic materials used to replace or restore damaged function. They should be biocompatible, non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. The paper reports that metals, polymers, ceramics and composites are the most commonly used biomaterials. The paper then details their use as synthetic orthopedic, dental and breast implants, in hernia repair, in gene therapy, to replace damaged organs, to enhance bone healing, to store and dispense multiple drug doses and multi-stage vaccines and other uses.
Table of Contents:
Biomaterials in Medical Use
Polymers
Shaped Bodies
The Ideal Materials
ATP Research Fund
PolyHap Implants for Damaged Faces
Polymer Chip
Anti-bacterial Implants
Breast Implants
Polyurethane-covered Implants
Benefits and Contraindications
Benefits
Contraindications
Implants for Malignant Gliomas
BCNU/Gliadel
Polymer Technology
Periodontium Regenerating System
The Invention's Specifics
The Future is Biodegradable Hernia Device
Summary
From the Paper "Periodontal disease affects up to 90% of the population and surgery has been the first choice of therapy. Surgery, however, does not restore lost periodontium. Restoration can happen if periodontal ligament cells can colonize root surfaces over gingival epithelial cells, gingival fibroblasts or osteoblasts. The application of microporous membranes under periodontal flaps during surgery eventually brought this effect about. A biodegradable membrane would make a follow-up surgery unnecessary and benefit both patient and surgeon from further health condition and cost."
Abstract An argumentative paper which discusses how the future of the environment cannot be left in the hands of the corporations, but how individuals need to take a stronger stand. It begins with describing the development of the "green" movement and proceeds in examining its role today. It looks at what the individual can do to advance this ideal.
From the paper:
"Through the years the society has become developed and keeps on developing concerns have arisen against the effect of industry and technology on the environment. With the depletion of the ozone layer due to chemical gases, the pollution of the land, seas, and the air with products that are made of material that is not biodegradable and the growth of the human population that causes urban sprawl, all have contributed to the degrading of the environment. In the midst of this havoc arose the concept of environment conservatism, which spread the notion of a "green" environment that created products that were environment friendly."
Abstract This paper examines three issues which would assist in the recycling process. The first suggestion is that all beverage containers be re-usable, the second suggests that all household and businesses sort their garbage into separate containers; and the third issue suggests that consumers pay for plastic bags at the supermarket. The advantages of each of these issues are discussed.
From the Paper "There are a multitude of benefits to be gained from requiring that all beverage containers be reusable. First, refillable or reusable beverage containers greatly reduce our impact on the environment without extra cost. As long as they achieve a certain number of refills or 'trips' (i.e., generally around 10) to at least overcome the impact of their initial production, refillables reduce waste, minimize the use of materials and energy, and reduce pollution and litter. This is because the overall impact of a container is shared amongst each of its many refills."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the food market. According to the paper, trends are moving from fast foods to more healthier, organic foods. The paper also discusses the important role that food plays in the social arena.
Outline:
Introduction
Food Industry Overview: Organic, Fruits and Vegetables, and Fast Food Sectors
Factors in the Changing Tastes of Society: From Fast Food to Organic
How Fast Food Restaurants are Reacting to the Shift to More Organic Foods
Conclusion
From the Paper "To remain competitive, fast food restaurants have had to turn to innovative products, often redeveloping their product lines, to meet the changing demands of consumers for organic foods specifically, and healthier foods in general. The demand for organic foods has been the mechanism for industry evolution. As noted, McDonalds phased out their supersize menu items, in response to society's growing health concerns. In addition, they've begun to offer more healthy menu choices, such as low-fat items and fresh salads, to their customers, as well as promoting healthy lifestyles in their marketing campaigns. In the New England area, McDonald's even replaced their coffee with Newman's Own Organic blend, in an attempt to take further advantage of more organically-discriminating tastes of consumers. This move has been well-received in the region . In addition, new fast food restaurants are being introduced to the marketplace, in response to these new consumer demands. Company's like Healthy Express are still relatively small players in the industry, but are slowly garnering market share from their less healthy competitors ."
