The amount of marine debris in oceans is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide. Marine plastic pollution poses a serious threat to marine life. Fish, seabirds, and marine mammals get entangled in the plastic, which can cause blockages in their digestive systems.
SaltWater Brewery in South Florida has done something bold in an effort to help. The company has replaced the type of plastic six-pack ring it normally uses with one that feeds marine animals.
Designed by startup E6PR, these biodegradable six-pack rings are made from wheat and barley, making them 100 percent biodegradable and compostable.
These edible rings cost more than plastic rings, but it is hoped that people won’t mind paying a little more to help protect marine life.
E6PR is planning to make similar rings for soda and other packaged drinks. If the edible rings work and companies begin using them widely, this will not only result in the lowering of manufacturing costs but will also bring about a significant decrease in plastic pollution. The ultimate goal is to reduce wildlife injuries and deaths related to ingestion of or entrapment in these plastic rings.
