Why green milk bottle tops are not a green option | Environment | The Observer

Why green milk bottle tops are not a green option | Environment | The Observer: "High density polyethylene (HDPE) has replaced glass for milk bottles because it is much tougher and lighter than glass, which radically cuts the energy costs of transportation, while also being less prone to breakage. This is all good but there is more: because HDPE is a plastic it can be made into complex bottle shapes, yielding a hollow handle which is better for grip, and a thin pouring lip, which means less drip. The rectangular cross-section of HDPE milk bottles enables them to be stacked efficiently, allowing more milk to be put into a lorry or a fridge door, further increasing utility and their general pleasingness. In other words, the modern HDPE milk bottle is close to being a design classic. And it would be… but for the problem with the colour of its lid."



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