In 2006, the company introduced a hot beverage paper cup with 10% post-consumer recycled fiber and in 2008 it rolled out a new plastic cup that has less of an environmental impact than its original plastic cups.

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Consider the impact of plastic water bottles, which take as long to biodegrade.

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Across the island in David Hyrenbach's lab, the impact of plastic debris is apparent among the animal species he studies: birds.

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It was of "particular importance" given the negative impact of plastic bags on the environment, animals and marine species, he said.

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As for the impact of plastic bags on litter, the latest figures suggest there has been a 20-fold decrease since the levy was introduced in 2002.

BBC: Northern Ireland bag levy could reduce litter

Ziploc and RecycleBank are joining forces to launch a new recycling program to help reduce the environmental impact of Ziploc plastic bags.

FORBES: Ziploc launches new recycling program

Who knew that tiny pieces of plastic bricks could have such an impact?

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Some worry about the environmental impact of so much plastic wrapping.

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They have helped test the impact of nonlethal munitions like plastic and rubber bullets and have helped determine the best kind of footwear for land-mine clearance teams.

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It's not that winemakers are unaware of the environmental benefits of paper or plastic, it's that they struggle with the impact of perception.

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