Introduction

In today's world, where sustainability and environmental consciousness are becoming increasingly important, the way we communicate about sustainable materials is crucial. Unfortunately, the current system of labeling polymers—plastics and other materials—can be confusing and inconsistent, making it difficult for consumers to make informed decisions. That's where the MUSHEE CODE comes in, offering a simplified, intuitive system that everyone can understand.

The Problem with the Current System

The existing system for labeling sustainable polymers often uses complex terms that can be confusing and with unnecessary details. For instance, consider a material labeled as a "petroleum-based, biodegradable, industrial compostable plastic." This label might be accurate, but it raises several questions:

• Is the material eco-friendly if it’s petroleum-based?
• What does "biodegradable" mean in this context?
• What exactly does 'industrial' mean?

Such labels can lead to confusion and misinterpretation, making it harder for consumers to make eco-friendly choices.

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A Confusing Example

Imagine you’re shopping for eco-friendly packaging and come across these two products:

1. Product A: "Petroleum-based, biodegradable, industrial compostable"
2. Product B: "Bio-based, degradable"

Which one is better for the environment? The first product sounds complicated and might seem eco-friendly due to "biodegradable," but its petroleum base and need for industrial composting make it less ideal. The second product, while bio-based, is merely "degradable," which often means it breaks down into microplastics, not fully disappearing.

Clearly, the current system's terminology can be overwhelming and misleading.

MANIPULATION

In a space like sustainability you'd think clarity and honestly would be the first priority. However, business is business and manipulation is key, even when it comes to saving the planet. The current system, unintuative as it is, creates space for green washing and manipulation to run rampant.

Clearly, a new, more water tight system is needed.

Introducing the MUSHEE CODE

The MUSHEE CODE offers a simplified, intuitive system that categorizes materials based on their source and end-of-life. We simply details that aren't needed and ensure that the IMPACT is clear.
Here’s how it works:

Source Classification:

• Natural (N): Derived from natural sources.
  • Mycelium derived from fungi
  • Starch & PLA Plastic derived from corn
• Fossil (F): Derived from fossil sources.
  • Polystyrene (Styrofoam) derived from oil
  • PVC derived from oil

End-of-Life Impact Classification:

• Non-Degradable (NonD): Breaks down into microplastics and does not fully disappear.
• Naturally Degradable (NatD): Can degrade in natural conditions without intervention.
• Industrially Degradable (InD): Requires specialized industrial conditions to degrade won't do so naturally.

Why the MUSHEE CODE is Better

The MUSHEE CODE simplifies the information, making it easier for consumers to understand the environmental impact of their choices. Here’s a clear breakdown of the labels:

1. Natural, Naturally Degradable (N, NatD):
   • Made from biological sources and can degrade naturally without any intervention.
2. Fossil, Non-Degradable (F, NonD):
   • Made from fossil sources, breaks down into microplastics, persisting in the environment.
3. Natural, Industrially Degradable (N, InD):
   • Made from biological sources but requires industrial processes to degrade.
4. Fossil, Industrially Degradable (F, InD):
   • Made from fossil sources and requires industrial processes to degrade.

Benefits of the MUSHEE CODE

• Clarity and Simplicity: Easily understandable labels help consumers make informed decisions.
• Consistent Terminology: Standardized terms eliminate confusion and misinterpretation.
• Environmental Awareness: Clear labels educate consumers on the environmental impact of their choices.

Conclusion

What's important is not necessarily rigourous classification or scientific presicion, but the conveying of the actual IMPACT of materials. The MUSHEE CODE aims to cut through right to the heart of impact. We believe that if consumers are given the facts, rather than manipulations or confusion, they will be able to make informed decisions and help create a better world.

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