Asked by: Mark Chapman
We tend to assume that plastic is always the worst option for the environment. But when it comes to wrapping your sandwiches, aluminium foil – even though it’s recyclable – is worse than cling film.
Aluminium mining is energy-intensive and polluting: per square metre, aluminium foil contributes three times as much water pollution and six times as many greenhouse gas emissions. So unless you reuse the same foil six times, cling film is better. For an even better option, try a waxed cotton wrap, which can be reused for months.
Read more:
- Is recycling paper bad for the environment?
- Is it better for the environment to be buried or cremated?
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Authors
Luis trained as a zoologist, but now works as a science and technology educator. In his spare time he builds 3D-printed robots, in the hope that he will be spared when the revolution inevitably comes.
