A single-use cooler, such as the Styrofoam box cooler, may seem like an easy-to-use, disposable item, but in fact, it’s terrible for our environment. This non-biodegradable cooler is an outdoor accessory many utilize while fishing or camping, but it is so environmentally unfriendly that some government bodies have banned its sale, according to New Atlas. In an attempt to redesign this polluting product, Igloo has created the first cooler made from 100 percent biodegradable materials.
Dubbed the Recool, the cooler is created from organic molded paper pulp treated with alkylated ketene dimers (AKD) for strength and hydrophobicity. The cooler can keep ice cool for up to 12 hours and hold melted water for up to five days without leaking. Additionally, if you’re planning on bringing food and drinks galore, the cooler can hold up to 75 lbs.
The recyclable cooler has a crumble-free design, so unlike foam coolers, it won’t easily chip, crack, or disintegrate into tiny pieces. Additionally, Recool can be used more than just once, as long as it’s air dried between each use. Although the cooler will most likely wear out eventually, you can definitely get your money’s worth with Recool.
Currently, the Recool coolers have launched at REI locations in the U.S. and are selling at $10 a cooler.
Filed Under: TECHNOLOGIES + PRODUCTS, Materials • advanced
