When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as airplane and automobile parts to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in the 1980s as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and patient-specific models to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D print patient-specific models, more acc
During the holidays life can get a bit crazy. Shopping, decorating and holiday parties are a few things that can throw this time of the year into a frenzy. With everything going on, cooking is probably the last thing on your to do list. After all, it’s easy to go through a drive thru, grab your food, and be on your way. It’s pretty typical for fast food chains and restaurants to provide plastic cutlery for to-go meals. However, things are about to change for plastic cutlery and disposable dishes in France.
In a controversial move, the country is giving producers until 2020 to switch to disposable dishes made from 50 percent biodegradable materials, and by 2025 this number will increase to 60 percent. The goal is to cut waste in addition to cutting energy used to make plastic.
The Controversy
Many parties have voiced their opinions about France’s latest efforts. And, just to be transparent, the PSI News Team remains unbiased on these types of issues. Our goal is always to inform our readers of industry news happening in the US and around the world.
Pack2Go Europe, a not-for-profit association of companies that manufacture packaging for the food and beverages consumed on-the-go by Europeans, has expressed its belief that the new ruling violates EU law, and is worried the ban may expand to other European countries. Pack2Go president Mike Turner said the bangoes against Europe’s free movement of goods rule. According to CNN, Pack2Go Europe has “asked the EU Commission to block the French law and is consulting with lawyers about taking legal action against France.”
There is another debate surrounding the new law: is the energy required to produce biodegradable materials greener than other options? Some researchers say that to make a ban of this nature worthwhile, processes to produce biodegradable plastics would need to be more energy-efficient.
France isn’t alone
You may have heard about California’s ban on plastic bags. California was the first state to pass such a law, and some say it won’t be the last. Under the new law, which recently passed 52 percent to 48 percent, shoppers must bring their own reusable bags to stores or pay a fee for each bag used. According to CBS Los Angeles, some stores are charging 10 cent per paper bag used and 15 cent per each reusable plastic bag used. Iowa City is working towards bringing an ordinance banning single-use plastic bags to the City Council by the end of 2016.
What’s next?
We probably don’t have to go into much depth to tell you what the future may hold for plastic cutlery, plastic bags and other plastic products. While we anticipate these debates to carry on, it’s important to educate yourself about these types of laws that could impact more communities and states in the US. What are your thoughts about the direction of regulations for plastic products?
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