Learn the simple yet powerful process of turning plastic waste into building blocks for a sustainable future.
Eco-bricks are the building blocks to a sustainable future. It is so much more than just plastic stuffed into a bottle, it's a message that conveys hope and prosperity. Eco-bricks are a simple yet ingenious way of turning trash into treasure to tackle the on-going plastic pollution crisis.
Want to make an eco-brick of your own? Here's how you do it:
Firstly, you will require plastic waste like bags, wrappers, and bottles - note that they should be clean with no food residue left!
Grab your bottle! Take a dry, empty plastic bottle with a tight-fitting cap to fill with the plastic waste. Typically, 1.5-liter or 2-litre bottles are sufficient.
Fill the bottle with small, cut-up pieces of plastic. It will need to be tightly packed, so frequently use a stick to push down the added plastic firmly until it is solid and sturdy.
Once the bottle is filled to the desired density, screw the cap tightly to seal it and make sure the bottle is completely airtight to prevent the plastic from decompressing over time.
Make some more! Go on, get more plastic to stuff into additional bottles and don't forget to spread the word. Remember, you're making a difference - one ecobrick at a time!
Make sure it's clean, dry and non-biodegradable like plastic bags and wrappers. Ensure the plastics are free from food residue!
Choose a clean plastic bottle with a tight-fitting cap. Commonly used sizes include 1.5-liter and 2-liter bottles, but this is not necessary.
Use a stick or dowel to compress the plastic waste inside the bottles tightly.
Keep these important safety guidelines in mind while making eco-bricks.
Avoid toxic plastics as they may release harmful chemicals when compacted or exposed to heat. Avoid using plastics labeled as PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or other toxic materials.
Don't forget to wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or contaminants while handling the plastic waste!
If you're cutting or shredding plastic waste, ensure you work in a well-ventilated area to minimise inhalation of fumes or dust particles.
Most importantly, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any residues from the waste!
Supervise children that are involved in order to prevent accidents or ingestion of plastic waste.
Here are some tips to efficiently stuff your eco-bricks:
Cut or tear the plastic waste before stuffing them into the bottle, this allows for better compaction and helps eliminate air gaps.
Fill the bottle in layers, compacting the plastic waste as you go. Use a stick or dowel to press down firmly on each layer to ensure it is tightly packed.
Mix different types of plastics to help create a more solid and uniform structure by interlocking the pieces together.
Avoid overstuffing as it can make it difficult to seal properly and may cause the ecobrick to bulge or deform.
Maintain a consistent density around 0.33 grams per milliliter, as this ensures optimal stability and strength.