Saturday 7 June 2008

Pointless Save-a-Flush


Today our water supplier delivered a freebie to the door. It’s a plastic bag type thing with tiny holes in it that’s filled with absorbent polymer and silica sand. We’re supposed to put it in the toilet cistern so that it uses less water when it flushes. It’s called a Save-a-Flush.

What a daft idea!

What on earth is the point in manufacturing more plastic goods in order to save water? Why couldn’t they just drop us a leaflet made from recycled paper explaining ways we can use things we probably already have hanging about the house or garden for the same purpose instead? What’s wrong with putting an old brick in the cistern? Or a plastic bottle that’s already been manufactured, filled with water?

This new plastic thingy also carries a warning: contains super absorbent polymer and silica sand – keep away from children and animals. If accidentally swallowed or inhaled, drink plenty of water, do not induce vomiting and seek medical advice immediately. If the contents come into contact with the skin, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Hmm... doesn’t sound very environmentally friendly if it’s dangerous enough to carry a warning, does it? It certainly isn’t family friendly.

It doesn't carry any advice as to how it should/could be recycled either. I suspect that's because it can't.

Why on earth they did this is beyond me. Are they just trying to raise their kudos a tad by appearing to be ‘green’ or what? Well United Utilities have definitely taken a step down in my estimation so they shot themselves up the jacksy there!

Sharon J xx

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2 comments:

Anonymous said...

A leaflet does sound like a preferable alternative with perhaps a number to call for those who want one of these things delivered. I'd bet that the majority will either use them or discard them without giving them a second thought.

Sharon J said...

I'm afraid you're probably right about people discarding them, Elizabeth. More rubbish for the landfill :(