Disposing protocols vary in every country, every locality even. At times, separating trash between paper and plastic can be time-consuming. But it's nothing compared to the recycling efforts of residents in Kamikatsu, a small village in southwestern Japan. They sort their garbage into 34 separate categories of waste. This was implemented in 2003. It took time for residents to adjust to the tedious task of washing, sorting, and bringing their trash to the town's sorting center but now it's routine.
Companies understand that being ethical is in vogue so their marketing messaging touts sustainability and ethical practices. While that may be a sign of the prevailing conscious consumer (woo!), it’s always good to look a little deeper to make sure companies are actually taking action consistent with what they’re promoting.