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Should I throw away everything I own that is plastic? (hexbear.net)

submitted 3 months ago* (last edited 3 months ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

49 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I’m being hyperbolic, but TikTok just re-radicalized me and in ADHD energy mode and I know this urgency won’t last forever. I hate when things I’m around feel contaminated by toxins and I already wear a mask for the polluted air. I hate getting rid of things that might be useful, but also plastics bad so it might be useful. I do have OCD, but this isn’t about that it’s an exaggerated but rational urge. I realize this account’s lib asking you to “vote with your dollar,” but for personal health what do you think? I can afford this eventually. I’m clearly monotropism spiraling but it’s fun.

Also, should we stop recycling plastic if the product will be worse?

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[–] [email protected] 34 points 3 months ago (2 children)

There's so many micro plastics in the environment already from tire and brake dust, that I don't know if it would even make a large impact. I replaced plastic drinking vessels (cups, water bottles) that get frequent use, but otherwise I just try to buy non-plastic things as I replace old ones. For example, I'm pretty picky with only buying clothes from natural fibers whenever possible.

[–] [email protected] 12 points 3 months ago

Obviously I’m going to consume microplastics regardless but I’d rather there be fewer carcinogens in all the stuff I’m constantly touching and that is on me.

[–] [email protected] 12 points 3 months ago (1 children)

brake dust isn't plastic but it is harmful particulate nonetheless. carpet is a huge source domestically

[–] [email protected] 7 points 3 months ago (2 children)

blob-no-thoughts I have a bunch of carpet but I think there’s asbestos underneath.

[–] [email protected] 5 points 3 months ago* (last edited 3 months ago) (1 children)

there probably isn't asbestos underneath? The only asbestos flooring I'm familiar with is asbestos tiles, which are kinda unusual, plus safe to leave in place as long as you don't break them up, and usually installed over concrete afaik. if you have asbestos insulation it won't be directly under the carpet there'll be a subfloor?

on further research I guess there are other places it could be like the carpet glue, but I wouldn't assume it is or isnt without testing unless its obvious

[–] [email protected] 6 points 3 months ago (1 children)

My house is old and it is tile. Removing it sounds quite difficult, so knowing it isn’t helping anyway.

[–] [email protected] 6 points 3 months ago (1 children)

this-is-fine is the old house life lol

[–] [email protected] 3 points 3 months ago

The upside to asbestos is that it is extremely fireproof.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 3 months ago

well that rules out using a shovel to dig up your whole floor

if there is treasure you'll never get it