Disposable planers and multi-blade systems may seem small in the context of all environmental issues, but their impact is actually significant. Let’s explore why these planers pose a burden to our planet and what we can do about it. Switching to more sustainable alternatives can be a step in the right direction to reduce our environmental impact. Discover how you can make a difference by choosing smarter in the bathroom.
The extensive environmental impact of disposable razors
Every year, huge amounts of disposable razors are thrown away, in the United States alone there are 2 billion. These planers, along with multi-blade systems, are part of the global plastic waste problem, which amounts to 40 million tons each year – equivalent to the weight of 1,000 planes stacked on top of each other. In addition, 32 percent of all this plastic ends up in our lakes and seas. It’s like imagining a garbage truck dropping its load straight into the water every minute, all year round. It is a reminder of the significant environmental impact that disposable planers and multi-blade systems have.
The Environmental Challenge of Plastics in Multi-Blade Systems
The plastic in these products is created to be durable and cost-effective to manufacture. However, this becomes a problem when it is time for the waste to decompose in nature. When the razor blade has become dull and the razor is no longer in use, a slow decomposition process begins in which the plastic is gradually broken down into microplastics. These microplastics can then spread in the ecosystem, affect wildlife and eventually even reach back to humans.
A challenging recycling
One of the challenges of recycling these planers is their complex composition. They are made of plastic, metal, and rubber, which means that each material requires its own recycling process. This makes them difficult to manage for waste facilities. In addition, they are usually only used 3-10 times before being disposed of, leading to the rapid build-up of waste volumes.
Climate impact of disposable planers and multi-blade systems
In addition to the waste generated, the production of disposable planers and multi-blade systems also has an impact on the climate. During the manufacturing process, approximately 1 kg of carbon dioxide is emitted per planer. This results in millions of tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year globally. This figure shows the major environmental impact that goes beyond just waste management.
Comparison between different razors
Below is a comparison between three different types of razors, disposable razors, multi-blade system planers and safety planers. The comparison includes emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per product. This includes the manufacture, transport and recycling/disposal of the product.
Disposable planer
A disposable planer emits 0.1 to 0.2 kg of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per planer.
If a person shaves daily with a disposable razor and uses a disposable razor up to 6 times, that’s 61 razors per year, that’s up to 12.2 kg of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per person per year.
Multi-blade system
A multi-blade system planer emits 0.05 to 0.02 kg of emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per planer. In addition, multi-blade refills emit 0.05 to 0.01 kg of emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
If a person shaves daily with a multi-blade razor with refill packs, that will be about 61 packs per year or 6.1 kg of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per person per year.
Safety razor
A safety planer emits 0.05 to 0.1 kg of emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. While the double-shaving blades emit 0.01 to 0.03 kg of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions per blade.
If a person shaves daily with a double razor blade and a safety razor, it will be about 1.83 kg of greenhouse gases per person per year.
Sustainable alternatives for a cleaner planet
There are alternatives for those who want to reduce their impact on the environment. Reusable metal razors, such as safety razors, shavettes, and razors, are more durable options. Although they require an initial investment, they save both the environment and money over time. Choosing such a planer may seem like a small measure, but every small contribution counts towards reducing the burden on the environment.
While choosing a razor may seem trivial, it can have major consequences. By opting out of disposable razors and multi-blade systems in favor of more sustainable alternatives, we can all contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable planet. It’s time to make eco-friendly choices in the bathroom as well, for the good of our planet.
Durability and efficiency of safety razors
Safety planers are designed to be durable compared to disposable planers and multi-blade systems. They are made of materials such as stainless steel and have a long lifespan where only the blades need to be replaced. This simple but effective design reduces the need for frequent replacements and therefore the total amount of waste produced over time.
Read more here: How to choose the right safety razor
Minimal waste generation with safety razors
Safety planers have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to their disposable counterparts. While disposable razors and multi-blade systems increase the huge amount of plastic waste and carbon emissions, safety razors represent a good example of reuse and minimizing waste. In addition, the blades of safety razors are made of metal, which is easier to recycle than plastic.
Read more here: Why you should choose a safety razor
Frequently Asked Questions
Can disposable razors be recycled? Despite efforts with recycling programs, it is difficult to recycle disposable razors due to their complex materials.
How long does it take for a plastic planer to decompose? Plastic planers can take several hundred years to decompose in nature, and during that time they can emit harmful microplastics.
Are there environmentally friendly alternatives to disposable razors? Yes, reusable razors such as metal safety razors are a sustainable and environmentally friendly option that reduces waste and plastic pollution.
Which razor should I choose?
If you’re looking for a safety razor that’s both comfortable and all-metal, then the Rockwell R1, Rockwell 6S, and Mühle Traditional R89 are definitely worth considering. Made from high-quality material, these four models provide a close and efficient shave every time you use them.
