1.
Toxic paper cups
The next time you have your coffee in a paper cup, think again. This article discusses a recently published study that shows that paper cups can be just as toxic as conventional plastic ones if they end up littered in our natural environment. Seemingly eco-friendly paper cups are coated with a thin layer of plastic to keep their contents from seeping into the paper, and this lining can emit toxic substances.
Coffee cups are made of a complex mixture of synthetic materials and chemicals. Manufacturers add processing aids, heat stabilizers, and other substances, many known to be toxic. Even if plant-derived materials are used—such as polylactic acid, a material derived from corn, cassava, or sugarcane used to coat paper cups—cup makers often add a number of other chemicals during processing.
2.
How the world started drinking bottled water. Even where clean tap water is available.
This is a superb read on the genesis of bottled water.
The effective start of the modern American bottled water industry occurred in 1978, the year Perrier launched its bottled water brand in the United States with a massive advertising campaign.
Many wondered why people would spend good money for a bottle of imported spring water when they could get perfectly clean water straight from the tap. But critics underestimated the power of snob appeal. “Perrier,” writes branding expert Douglas Holt, “pioneered the idea that drinking bottled water in small single-serve glass bottles was an affordable way to grasp a bit of European sophistication, which resonated among so-called yuppies.”
Why do consumers purchase bottled water, or how have they been persuaded to do so? Ultimately, it boils down to five key factors: fashion, flavour, fitness, frequent drinking, and fear.
Thought of the Week
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing."
~ Socrates
Video of the Week
This is one of my all-time favourite videos. Have this bookmarked in my YouTube list. Haven’t watched it in a while but planning to do it. If you are like me and love finance and history, then you will love this. This is the first episode of the series of six. Watch them at your leisure.
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