Why Is Glitter Banned in Some Countries But Not the US?
- thechemdaily
- Jun 20, 2024
- 4 min read
Glitter turns our ordinary craft projects into dazzling masterpieces. People from across all age groups find themselves opting for these tiny, shimmering flecks of joy. However, even through the beauty that it endows onto our otherwise normal creations, glitter is being banned in many countries. Many parts of the European Union, including the UK, have banned certain types of glitter. This raises an important question that many of us don’t ever seem to bat an eye towards: Why is glitter banned in some places but not in the US? Here, we will dig deep into the curiosities that surround glitter, hopefully leaving you at least a little more educated than you were before reading this.
The Glitter Chemistry
At its core, glitter is essentially tiny plastic particles coated in a shiny metallic finish. These microplastics reflect light, leaving us with that sparkle that we love. However not all glitters consist of the same materials. They differ, but generally it is:
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) — a common plastic used for glitter.
Aluminum — providing the shiny metallic look.
Dyes and Colorants — various synthetic chemicals used for coloring.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) — another type of plastic that occasionally shows up in glitter.
If you're checking glitter packaging, here's a typical ingredient list you might find:
Ingredient List on Glitter Packaging
Ingredients: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Aluminum, Color additives, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Non-toxic dyes.
This combination results in a vibrant product that appears in a range of items, from craft supplies to cosmetics.
The Environmental Impact
One of the leading reasons for glitter's regulation is its detrimental effect on the environment. Glitter is classified as a microplastic, meaning it can easily bypass water filtration systems and ultimately pollute oceans and rivers.
Research indicates that microplastics can be ingested by marine life, and studies have demonstrated concerning trends. For instance, over 800 species, including fish, have been found consuming microplastics, which can accumulate in the food chain and potentially impact human health through seafood consumption. This poses a serious problem as microplastics contain harmful chemicals.
Given these concerns, there is increasing scrutiny and demand for regulation worldwide.
Why Some Countries Ban Glitter
In the past few years, multiple countries have begun to ban glitter that contains harmful plastics. For example, the UK is actively moving towards phasing out products with microplastics to decrease pollution. In fact, some estimates suggest that microplastics account for about 15% of all marine pollution.
Brands are responding to environmental awareness by producing biodegradable glitter options made from sustainable materials like plant cellulose or vegetable starch, offering a guilt-free alternative. According to research, the biodegradable market is anticipated to grow by over 20% annually in the coming years.
The European Union echoes similar sentiments, identifying microplastics as an ingredient to phase out, ensuring that while glitter may still twinkle, its harmful elements are becoming less common.
The US Glitter Landscape
In contrast, glitter remains widely available in the United States. Here, the regulations concerning microplastics and specific chemicals are not as strict compared to other nations. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tends to focus on broader environmental issues, allowing products like glitter to escape rigorous regulations.
While there have been conversations about including glitter in future environmental policies, a comprehensive federal ban is not on the horizon. Complicating this issue is the fact that US consumers show a marked preference for products that shine. Glitter's popularity does not appear to be waning anytime soon.
Brands and Alternatives
Consumer choice plays a big role in the persistence of glitter on store shelves in the US. Numerous brands offer sparkling products, but many are increasingly focused on sustainability.
For those seeking eco-friendly alternatives, several brands now provide biodegradable glitter that offers the same sparkle without the environmental harm associated with traditional types.
Check out these two brands that prioritize sustainability:
Eco-Stardust – Their biodegradable glitter, made from plant cellulose, reflects a commitment to eco-friendliness.
VH Glitter – Offers various non-toxic glitter options that mitigate environmental impact.
The Future of Glitter
As awareness of environmental challenges increases, the glitter debate will likely evolve. Consumers and companies alike have a significant impact on the type of products that populate store aisles. The trend toward eco-friendly materials suggests that options will diversify beyond traditional plastic glitter.
It is vital to consider our choices in crafting and cosmetics. Whether you're sprinkling a touch of sparkle on art ventures or preparing for a festive gathering, being mindful of our selections can greatly benefit the planet.
Final Thoughts
The glitter phenomenon has illuminated our lives for generations, serving as a beloved component in art and celebration. However, its rising status as a microplastic has raised questions about our responsibilities as consumers and crafters.
Although several countries have taken steps to ban glitter, the US has not yet pursued that path. Nevertheless, eco-friendly alternatives continue to flourish, allowing consumers to enjoy sparkle while protecting the environment.
Moving forward, staying informed about our product choices and their ecological impact is essential. Together, we can continue to shine without sacrificing our values. So the next time you reach for that glitter, think about whether you want to enhance your project or burden our planet with waste.
