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Local distributor urges consumers to “Go Green”
– touts biodegradable food containers
By Zena Henry
As the City continues to struggle with its current garbage problem and the nuisance of non- biodegradable waste, a local distributor is encouraging all citizens to “Go Green” and purchase biodegradable containers, or in this case, biodegradable food boxes.
Jermin’s Enterprise, located at 93 Regent Street, Lacytown (opposite City Hall), is promoting a new, safe and efficient way of presenting meals for sale with the use of biodegradable receptacles. Jermin’s is an importer of the biodegradable food containers. The company was established in October of last year and the management is driven by the will to be responsible to the environment.
The company was first launched at the GuyExpo Exhibition last year, as attempts were made to reach a broad base of consumers and convert them into “going green”.
Some of the biodegradable containers sold at Jermin’s.
Eating utensils made out of Styrofoam and other non-biodegradable materials has been at the centre of the city’s clogging and flooding problems. Apart from that, the waste material which does not naturally decompose can be found thrown about, littering streets, communities and the environment.
International studies show that most biodegradable items are made from animals or plants, but some artificial materials designed to mimic these organic substances can also degrade over time. But when the environment—air, sunlight, water or ground soil substances—cannot break down the waste, it is considered non-biodegradable.
Some biodegradable products take longer to break down than others and could thus have a negative impact on the environment. For example, the International Coral Reef Alliance showed that a banana peel degrades within two months, while notebook paper will break down within three months. Harder substances like soda cans take up to 350 years, while the plastic rings that hold together a six-pack of those cans can take up to 450 years. Glass bottles and Styrofoam products might never biodegrade.
The Government and the City Council have been urging citizens to conserve the environment by being more accountable for the disposal of their waste. Initiatives such as “Pick it up Guyana” and “Go Green” campaigns have been endorsed and promoted throughout the country to tackle the buildup of non-biodegradable waste.
Jermin’s disclosed that it was after moves like those mentioned that the entity sought to prevent continued environmental harm, and the idea of a “Go Green” store was developed. So far, the response to the products is relatively slow. But Office Manager Adunni Simon insists that people are enthusiastic about the idea of “Going Green” and are gradually converting.
She explained that some are hesitant about change, but the company expects favourable feedback in the future since the firm is fairly young and benefits of the conversion still need to be highlighted.
Simon stressed that apart from those benefits, the biodegradable food boxes at Jermin’s are also cheaper than the known “environmental killers” such as plastic and Styrofoam containers. They come in varying shapes and sizes and can be used for storing cakes, meals and other dried foods.
According to Simon, the plan is to host a follow-up launch in March to promote the company’s product line and to increase knowledge about the containers, particularly their advantages.
The company is hoping to attract environmental organizations, Ministry officials, restaurant owners, vendors and consumers.
We are hoping that the relevant authorities would jump on the initiative to promote healthy social living. We are also asking consumers to “Go Green” by purchasing for persons who use biodegradable items and to encourage others to follow suit. Persons wishing to make contact with us can call 623-7311 or 690-2535, or visit our centrally located office anytime,” Simon urged.
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