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While most consumers assume that paper products eventually disintegrate or are recycled, the truth is that a majority of paper products, including coffee cups, take-out containers, pizza boxes and more, are coated with polyethylene, which prevents leaks and liquid absorption, but renders them unfit for recycling. While polyethylene products eventually do decompose, greenhouse gases are released in the process, and harmful chemicals are released when this coating is exposed to hot food or beverages.
While most consumers assume that paper products eventually disintegrate or are recycled, the truth is that a majority of paper products, including coffee cups, take-out containers, pizza boxes and more, are coated with polyethylene, which prevents leaks and liquid absorption, but renders them unfit for recycling. While polyethylene products eventually do decompose, greenhouse gases are released in the process, and harmful chemicals are released when this coating is exposed to hot food or beverages.