What’s the most environmentally friendly way to take sandwiches to work?

Asked by: Mark Chapman

We tend to assume that plastic is always the worst option for the environment. But when it comes to wrapping your sandwiches, aluminium foil – even though it’s recyclable – is worse than cling film.

Aluminium mining is energy-intensive and polluting: per square metre, aluminium foil contributes three times as much water pollution and six times as many greenhouse gas emissions. So unless you reuse the same foil six times, cling film is better. For an even better option, try a waxed cotton wrap, which can be reused for months.

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