More than 13 million kilograms of Rubber Bands are sold each year. But did you know? Most Rubber Bands are not recycled, as few recycling centers will accept them due to how complex the recycling process is. So, where does it all end up? Unfortunately, most Rubber Bands end up as waste in landfills.
This is where TPU Elastic Bands come in! Not only are they able to be used in the same applications as Rubber Bands and more, but they are also 100% recyclable.
TPU Elastic Bands vs Rubber Bands
Help to save the planet
As mentioned before, some parts of a rubber band are recyclable. The problem is that there are not many recycling centers that will accept them as the recycling process is complicated and with little profit to be made. However, this does leave the option for re-use, but rubber bands do not have a long lifespan before they become brittle or sticky.
Comparing the recycling aspects of Rubber Bands and TPU Elastic Bands, TPU Elastic Bands stand out as the better option as it is 100% recyclable and can last up to 25 years.
Health Concerns
Rubber Bands not only affect those who have latex allergies, and can also negatively affect workers in the rubber manufacturing industry. There have been many instances of health issues caused by rubber bands across the years.
Exposure to harmful substances
Workers in the rubber manufacturing industry are exposed to dusts and fumes during the rubber making process on a daily basis. Previous studies revealed that there was an increase in cancer and Leukemia cases for workers of a rubber manufacturer.
Latex Allergies
It is estimated that 1-6% of the general population are sensitive to or develop allergic reactions to certain proteins in rubber latex (which is used to create rubber bands). Exposure to latex can result in serious health problems, causing symptoms such as; skin redness, hives, itching, runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and asthma.
What makes our bands different?
We do things differently at JCA. Management and production processes meet ISO14001 standards. And not only do we support environmentally friendly management, our workers are not exposed to any harmful or toxic substances.
Our TPU Elastic Bands have been tested for 200+ harmful substances and does not cause any of the health issues that Rubber Bands can.
Bands for the future
To summarize, TPU Elastic Bands and Rubber Bands have similar properties, meaning that they can be used in similar applications.
TPU Elastic Bands match up with Rubber Bands in all aspects, while also outshining it due to additional benefits such as:
100% latex free
Powder and fine dust free
100% recyclable
Lighter & thinner with stronger durability
TPU Elastic Bands are a great option for a more Eco-friendly future. If you are interested in reading up more on TPU Elastic Bands, please check out this page here.