Question

Just pick any readymade packet of any ‘good quality’ eatable, say a biscuit packet, and study the packaging – do you see the number of protective layers used?

Answer 1

Part 1: Layers in packaging material
Any ready made goods has a minimum of three layer packaging materials. Some containers have many more layers, for example, certain cartoons have 5 layers consisting of polyethylene and aluminium foils. This packing is based on the 3 P's – Protection, Preservation and Presentation.

Part 2: Effect of packaging material
As a result of these layers of packaging:-

• The volume of waste that enters the landfill increases.
• The non-biodegradable wastes that pollute the environment increases.
• The methodology used to make such material causes emissions that increase ozone depletion and hence global warming.