In recent years, sustainability has become a significant consideration in various industries, including arts and crafts.
Polymer clay, a versatile and widely used medium in crafting and sculpting, has gained popularity for its ease of use and vibrant colour options.
Polymer clay is popular material for crafters, hobbyists, and professional artists.
Polymer clay, despite its widespread use in arts and crafts, isn’t fully sustainable due to its primary component, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).
PVC is a synthetic plastic polymer derived from non-renewable resources such as petroleum and natural gas.
The production and disposal of PVC can be environmentally harmful, releasing environmental toxins.
Environmental Impact Of PVC In Polymer Clay
The inclusion of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) in polymer clay raises substantial environmental issues, primarily due to its production and disposal processes.
Specifically, polymer clay incorporates PVC elements derived from non-renewable petroleum resources during manufacturing.
Here are some key considerations regarding the environmental impact of PVC in polymer clay:
Raw Material Extraction
PVC production relies on extracting and processing petroleum, a fossil fuel.
Petroleum extraction has various environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, soil and water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions.
The extraction process also contributes to the depletion of finite resources.
Energy Consumption
The manufacturing processes of producing PVC for polymer clay require significant energy inputs. The extraction, refining, and processing of petroleum into PVC require substantial energy, often from non-renewable sources.
This energy consumption contributes to carbon emissions and exacerbates climate change.
Chemical Additives
PVC itself is a relatively stable material, but the production and processing of PVC often involve the use of chemical additives that can be harmful to the environment.
These additives include plasticizers, stabilizers, and pigments, which can contain toxic substances like phthalates, heavy metals, and other pollutants.
Improper handling and disposal of these additives can contaminate water and soil.
Disposal Challenges
PVC is not readily biodegradable, meaning it can persist in the environment long after disposal. When polymer clay objects containing PVC are no longer desired or usable, they can contribute to plastic waste if not properly managed.
Incineration of PVC can release harmful gases, including dioxins, a group of highly toxic pollutants. Landfilling PVC can also lead to leaching of chemicals into the soil and groundwater.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives To Polymer Clay
Air-Dry Clay
Air-dry clay is a popular alternative to polymer clay as it does not require baking or curing in an oven. It dries naturally in the air, eliminating the need for energy-intensive processes.
Air-dry clay is typically made from natural materials such as clay, minerals, and water, making it more environmentally friendly. It can be shaped, sculpted, and painted, similar to polymer clay.
Natural Clay
Natural clay, sourced directly from the earth, is another eco-friendly option. It is a renewable resource in various types, such as earthenware or stoneware clay.
Natural clay can be moulded, sculpted, and fired in a kiln to achieve a permanent, hardened form. It offers a more traditional approach to ceramics and is widely used by artists and potters.
Paper Clay
Paper clay combines clay and paper pulp or cellulose fibre. It is a lightweight, eco-friendly alternative that can be air-dried or fired in a kiln.
Paper clay offers similar properties to traditional clay, including moldability and sculpting capabilities. It is often used in ceramic art and mixed media projects.
Natural Fiber Clay
Natural fibre clay is made from natural plant fibres combined with binding agents.
These fibres can include materials like recycled paper, hemp, or other plant fibres. Natural fibre clay is lightweight, easy to work with, and can be air-dried or fired in a kiln.
Is Polymer Clay Sustainable?
Polymer clay is not considered a sustainable material due to several factors. It is primarily composed of synthetic polymers derived from non-renewable petrochemicals.
The extraction and processing of these fossil fuels have significant environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and habitat destruction.
Additionally, the manufacturing process of polymer clay involves energy-intensive procedures. Furthermore, polymer clay cannot biodegrade and remains in the environment indefinitely, contributing to waste accumulation.
Can Polymer Clay Be Recycled?
Polymer clay cannot be recycled through traditional recycling methods.
Once polymer clay is hardened through baking, it undergoes a chemical transformation, making it difficult to reshape or reuse in its original form.
It cannot be melted down and repurposed like some other plastics. However, leftover or scrap polymer clay can still have some value.
Additionally, there are creative techniques for reusing cured polymer clay, such as creating mosaics or jewellery components.
While recycling polymer clay in the traditional sense is not possible, finding ways to repurpose or incorporate it into new projects can help reduce waste.
Can I Make Polymer Clay More Sustainable?
While polymer clay is not inherently sustainable, there are ways to make crafting practices more eco-friendly.
Consider minimizing waste by using only the necessary amount of clay and properly storing unused portions.
Explore techniques for reusing and repurposing cured polymer clay, such as creating mosaics or jewellery components.
Consider incorporating sustainable elements into your projects, such as using recycled materials for armatures or adding natural features like dried flowers or leaves.
Are There Environmentally-Friendly Brands Of Polymer Clay?
While no universally recognized environmentally-friendly polymer clay brand exists, some companies may market themselves as more environmentally conscious or sustainable.
These brands may prioritize using alternative formulations, incorporating recycled materials, or adopting eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
However, it is essential to research and assess each brand’s sustainability claims and procedures.
Look for information about their raw materials, production processes, packaging materials, and waste management practices.
Consider certifications or eco-labels that indicate environmental commitments.
Can Polymer Clay Be Disposed Of Responsibly?
Disposing of polymer clay responsibly involves careful consideration due to its non-biodegradable nature.
It is best to avoid disposing of polymer clay in regular waste or landfill, as it will persist in the environment indefinitely.
Instead, consider reusing or repurposing scrap clay by incorporating it into future projects or sharing it with other crafters.
If the disposal is necessary, check with local recycling facilities to see if they accept polymer clay or if any specialized recycling programs are available in your area.
