Title: Assessment of the Environmental Impact of Washing Powders and Detergents in Singapore
A Case Study by Cuddles Care Pte Ltd
(You may request for a Cost Analysis Report from us.)
Abstract
Washing powders and detergents are essential in the cleaning process; however, their residuals after use have significant environmental impacts due to their chemical compositions and interactions with ecosystems. This study examines the potential environmental impacts of these products and explores mitigation strategies to reduce their adverse effects. Key areas of concern include water pollution, microplastic pollution, air pollution, and resource use. The study also discusses the benefits of eco-friendly detergents, proper disposal methods, and alternatives such as disposable antimicrobial curtains in healthcare settings.
1. Introduction
The use of washing powders and detergents is widespread, yet their environmental impacts remain a significant concern. The chemicals within these products, such as phosphates, surfactants, and optical brighteners, can contribute to water pollution, harm aquatic life, and lead to the accumulation of persistent pollutants in ecosystems (Wang et al., 2022; Thompson et al., 2020). Additionally, the packaging of these products contributes to plastic waste, which exacerbates the global microplastic pollution problem (Geyer et al., 2017).
2. Chemical Ingredients and Environmental Impact
2.1 Phosphates
Phosphates are commonly used in detergents as water softeners to enhance cleaning efficiency. However, their presence in wastewater can lead to eutrophication, a process where excessive algal growth depletes oxygen in water bodies, causing dead zones and harming aquatic life (Smith et al., 1999). This has been documented in various studies, highlighting the need for phosphate-free alternatives (Carpenter, 2005).
2.2 Surfactants
Surfactants, the active ingredients responsible for removing dirt and grease, are often non-biodegradable and can persist in the environment. These compounds have been found to accumulate in water bodies and soil, where they pose toxicity risks to aquatic life, including fish and invertebrates (Lewis, 1991). The persistence and toxicity of these chemicals call for the development of more biodegradable surfactant alternatives (Ying, 2006).
2.3 Enzymes
Enzymes are employed in detergents to break down proteins, fats, and starches, thereby enhancing cleaning performance. Although generally considered environmentally benign, their production is energy-intensive and involves significant chemical processing, which contributes to their overall environmental footprint (Aehle, 2007).
2.4 Optical Brighteners
Optical brighteners are chemicals added to detergents to make clothes appear whiter and brighter. These substances are not biodegradable and have been found to accumulate in aquatic environments, where they can harm organisms through bioaccumulation (Brown & Smith, 2013).
2.5 Fragrances and Dyes
Fragrances and dyes are added to detergents to enhance their appeal to consumers. However, these synthetic chemicals often contain compounds that do not break down easily, contributing to water and soil pollution (Sanghi et al., 2003). The environmental persistence of these substances underscores the need for more natural and biodegradable alternatives.
3. Water Pollution
3.1 Wastewater Contamination
Detergents enter water systems primarily through wastewater after laundry activities. If wastewater treatment plants are not equipped to remove these chemicals effectively, they can contaminate rivers, lakes, and oceans, leading to widespread water pollution (Ding et al., 2015). This pollution can have severe consequences for both aquatic ecosystems and human health (Liu et al., 2019).
3.2 Aquatic Toxicity
Many detergent ingredients are toxic to aquatic life. Surfactants, for instance, can damage fish gills, reduce reproduction rates in aquatic organisms, and disrupt the balance of microbial communities (Lewis, 1991). The toxic effects of these chemicals highlight the importance of reducing their release into aquatic environments.
4. Microplastic Pollution
4.1 Packaging Waste
Detergent packaging, particularly from pods or plastic bottles, contributes significantly to plastic waste. Improper disposal of these plastics can lead to their breakdown into microplastics, which are harmful to marine life (Thompson et al., 2004). This issue calls for more sustainable packaging solutions and improved recycling efforts.
4.2 Microplastics in Detergents
Some liquid detergents contain microplastics or microbeads, which can pass through water treatment systems and accumulate in the ocean. These microplastics are ingested by marine organisms, entering the food chain and potentially impacting human health (Cole et al., 2011). The growing concern over microplastic pollution necessitates stricter regulations on their use in consumer products.
5. Air Pollution
5.1 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Detergents containing fragrances often release VOCs into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. VOCs are precursors to ground-level ozone, which is harmful to human health and the environment (Weschler, 2009). Reducing the use of VOC-emitting products is essential to improving air quality.
6. Resource Use and Production Impact
6.1 Energy and Water Consumption
The production of detergents requires significant amounts of water and energy, contributing to resource depletion and greenhouse gas emissions (Bauer et al., 2020). Moreover, the extraction of raw materials, such as petroleum for surfactants, has environmental impacts, including habitat destruction and pollution (Schaubroeck et al., 2016).
6.2 Palm Oil Use
Palm oil is used as a base ingredient in some detergents. Its production is associated with deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in tropical regions (Meijaard et al., 2018). The environmental costs of palm oil production highlight the need for sustainable sourcing and alternatives.
7. Mitigation Strategies
7.1 Use of Eco-Friendly Detergents
Consumers can reduce their environmental impact by choosing eco-friendly or biodegradable detergents. These products are made from plant-based ingredients and do not contain harmful chemicals such as phosphates or non-biodegradable surfactants (Zaharia et al., 2020).
7.2 Reduction in Usage
Using the appropriate amount of detergent and opting for concentrated formulas can minimize environmental harm. Overuse of detergent increases the release of chemicals into the environment, intensifying pollution problems with the increase of Phosphates.
7.3 Cold Water Washing
Washing clothes in cold water can significantly reduce the energy required for laundry, thereby lowering the overall environmental footprint (Smith et al., 2021). This simple practice can lead to substantial energy savings.
7.4 Proper Disposal and Recycling
Ensuring that detergent packaging is properly recycled can help reduce plastic waste. Additionally, avoiding single-use detergent pods can minimize plastic pollution (Geyer et al., 2017).
7.5 Support for Sustainable Brands
Consumers can make a difference by choosing brands committed to sustainability. These brands often engage in responsible sourcing of raw materials and take steps to minimize their environmental impact during production (Schaubroeck et al., 2016).
7.6 Alternative Choices: Disposable Antimicrobial Curtains
In healthcare settings, the use of traditional polyester fabric curtains that require washing can be replaced with disposable antimicrobial curtains. These curtains are environmentally friendly, requiring no washing and lasting up to a year. The antimicrobial technology integrated into the polymer structure of the fabric provides long-lasting protection (Jones & Anderson, 2020).
8. Cost Analysis
8.1 Cost breakdown per Wash Cycle (In-House)
Table 1 presents a detailed cost analysis of washing non-disposable curtains, particularly in healthcare settings where frequent laundering is required. The data indicates that the total cost per wash for non-disposable curtains using a 200kg commercial washing machine amounts to approximately S$79.88. This includes expenses for electricity during both the washing and drying cycles, water usage, and washing powder. Over time, these recurring costs can accumulate significantly, particularly in high-usage environments like healthcare facilities.
Items | Resources needed | Cost Per Unit | Cost per Wash |
Electricity on 2 hours washing cycle | 60 Kw | S$0.30 | S$18.00[1] |
Electricity on 2 hours dryer cycle | 100 Kw | S$0.30 | S$30.00[1] |
Water usage for 2 washing cycle | 1200 Litres | S$3.24 per 1000 litres | S$3.88[2] |
Washing Powder usage | 8 kg powder | S$3.50 per kg | S$28.00 |
Total cost : | S$79.88 per wash |
Table 1: Statistics of a 200kg commercial washing machines on full load.
[1] Pricing of electricity is taken on average from different providers in the market
[2] Pricing of water is taken from PUB Singapore
*Assuming 8 kg of washing powder is priced at S$3.50 per kg.
8.2 Cost Breakdown for Outsourced Laundry Services
According to a quote received by Cuddles Care Pte. Ltd. in 2024, the cost of outsourcing laundry services is S$45.00 per curtain for each wash, amounting to a total of S$90.00 for two curtains per wash. Additionally, this price is subject to a 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2024. The estimate assumes that the curtains are washed quarterly, which would result in a total of four washes per year for each curtain.
8.3 Implications
The analysis reveals that outsourcing laundry services for non-disposable curtains can be significantly expensive, especially when factoring in the frequency of washing required in healthcare settings. For example, at a rate of S$45.00 per curtain per wash, the cost for maintaining even a small number of curtains becomes substantial over time.
This cost comparison underscores the financial inefficiency of maintaining non-disposable curtains, particularly when compared to the cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative of using disposable antimicrobial curtains. The cumulative expenses of outsourcing laundry services, combined with the environmental costs of frequent washing, make a strong case for re-evaluating curtain maintenance strategies in favor of more sustainable solutions.
8.4 Disposable Antimicrobial Curtains
While disposable antimicrobial curtains in healthcare settings are more expensive upfront, costing between $60 to $80 each compared to $30 to $50 for traditional curtains, the reduction in washing costs—both in terms of water, energy, and labor—can lead to overall savings. Additionally, the extended lifespan of these curtains reduces the frequency of replacements, further enhancing cost-effectiveness.
9. Conclusion
The environmental impact of washing powders and detergents is a pressing concern, but through informed choices and the adoption of sustainable practices, these impacts can be significantly reduced. By opting for eco-friendly products, reducing usage, and supporting sustainable brands, consumers can contribute to a healthier environment.
The comparison between in-house washing and outsourcing highlights the financial inefficiencies of maintaining non-disposable curtains. Moreover, the cumulative environmental impact of frequent washing—consuming vast amounts of water, energy, and chemicals—further exacerbates the problem.
Given these findings, the adoption of disposable antimicrobial curtains presents a compelling alternative. Although the initial cost may be higher, the elimination of ongoing washing expenses, coupled with the reduction in environmental impact, offers a more sustainable and cost-effective solution. By integrating these considerations, institutions can achieve significant savings while contributing positively to environmental stewardship.
Ultimately, this analysis underscores the importance of re-evaluating traditional practices in favor of more sustainable and economically viable alternatives. Making informed choices not only mitigates environmental harm but also provides clear financial benefits, making it a win-win for both the planet and the bottom line.
References
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- Bauer, M., Meier, F., & Schmutz, H. (2020). Energy and resource efficiency in the detergent industry. Journal of Cleaner Production, 242, 118312.
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- Carpenter, S. R. (2005). Eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems: Bistability and soil phosphorus. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 102(29), 10002-10005.
- Cole, M., Lindeque, P., Halsband, C., & Galloway, T. S. (2011). Microplastics as contaminants in the marine environment: A review. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 62(12), 2588-2597.
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- Jones, T., & Anderson, K. (2020). Sustainable healthcare practices: The role of disposable antimicrobial curtains. Journal of Environmental Management, 264, 110491.