The ecologist called household habits harmful to the environment

In the era of eco-friendliness, consumers are faced with a flood of advice, but many popular recommendations only create the illusion of caring for the planet, without solving real problems. On January 23, environmentalist and hydrogeologist Zhora Kavanosyan told Izvestia about which household habits cause real damage and which are marketing myths.

The bulk of solid household waste in Russia is organic (30-50%), waste paper (20-35%) and plastic (10-20%). Despite the government's "green" programs, the low environmental discipline of the population exacerbates the situation, while many believe that personal actions do not matter. However, it is the mass nature of household solutions that determines the overall effect.

"One of the most common misconceptions is the demonization of plastic. Its durability is the potential for multiple recycling, and production requires less energy and water than making glass or paper. In addition, plastic packaging reduces food losses, which ultimately reduces greenhouse gas emissions," the expert said.

Inhale and release: the authorities want to introduce a moratorium on a sharp increase in eco-catchments for the fuel and energy sector

An increase in rates by 250-1300% may cause an outflow of investments and a deterioration in the investment climate in the industry, according to the Ministry of Energy.

According to Kavanosian, greenwashing is much more dangerous — marketing tricks with unjustified eco-labels. For example, biodegradable bags often decompose only under special conditions, and break down into microplastics in a regular landfill, creating a false sense of security for consumers.

The theme of alternative packages turned out to be no less mythologized. Paper T-shirts require high production costs and tear quickly, while thin "ecological" T-shirt bags are unreliable and unsuitable for reuse.

"A fabric bag becomes more environmentally friendly than its polyethylene counterpart only after several decades of operation. The key principle is not the material, but durability: the more cycles of use, the less harm to nature," Kavanosyan said.

Among the most harmful non-obvious habits, the expert singled out overeating, leading to huge amounts of organic waste in landfills, where they emit methane and spoil recyclables. Other hidden damage is caused by old household appliances with a low energy efficiency class, as well as unheated windows and walls, which increase the load on the power system.

The desire for frequent wardrobe updates also has severe environmental consequences due to resource-intensive textile production.

Kavanosyan called improper waste disposal, especially batteries, mercury lamps and electronics, which poison soil and water, the most dangerous practice. To start an effective separate collection, it is enough to separate hazardous and food waste, and put dry recyclables in one bag — the main thing is that it is clean.

"True environmental friendliness does not begin with the purchase of "magic" packaging, but with the conscious rejection of excess, the choice of durable things and responsibility for the consequences of their daily actions," the ecologist concluded.

Izvestia reported on July 28 about indoor plants for beginners. One of the most unpretentious plants is sansevieria, or "pike's tail". It easily tolerates the absence of light, is not afraid of drafts, and it is watered no more than once every two weeks.

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