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Why are modern detergents no longer the same as traditional soaps?
With the increase in environmental awareness, many consumers are beginning to seek healthier and more environmentally friendly cleaning products. Compared with traditional soaps and detergents, modern detergents seem to have developed some surprising changes. This article explores these trends and their impact on human health and the environment.
The rise of synthetic surfactants
During World War II, petroleum-derived synthetic detergents became popular due to shortages of animal and vegetable oils. These detergents are better at cleaning hard water than traditional soaps and are quickly gaining popularity among consumers. In the 1950s, the use of synthetic detergents gradually surpassed that of traditional soaps.
However, the original synthetic cleaners used longer, branched carbon chain compounds that persisted in the environment and eventually led to the formation of large amounts of foam in water treatment plants and waterways.
In the face of environmental problems, public pressure led to the implementation of bans on certain hydrogen compounds in the United States and Europe after the 1970s. These substances were found to pose a threat to the ecosystem. As research continues, new synthetic detergents with improved biodegradability are emerging as possible alternatives.
Phosphate Challenge
Phosphates often added to synthetic cleaners also pose significant challenges to wastewater treatment. Phosphates help to improve the cleaning effect, but large amounts of phosphates lead to eutrophication of water bodies, causing serious damage to the environment.
In fact, phosphate emissions from human activities peaked in the 1970s with the use of synthetic detergents.
As scientific research progressed, knowledge about phosphates increased, and social appeals began calling for restrictions on their use. Eventually, many states imposed their own bans or restrictions on phosphates, making today's cleaner options more diverse.
Low-carbon technology of enzyme additives
Innovative methods that take into account environmental protection are also gradually emerging. Recent research has found that adding enzymes to detergents can significantly improve cleaning performance and reduce energy consumption. For example, more and more products are designed to work effectively in low-temperature water, thereby reducing the energy required for washing.
The impact of harmful additives
However, the issues associated with synthetic cleaners cannot be ignored. Certain additives such as Triclosan and Formaldehyde are gaining attention. The harm of these substances is not limited to the environment, but also involves human health.
In 2016, the FDA banned certain antibacterial agents from the market because their safety had not been fully demonstrated.
Additionally, some chemicals in spices are thought to be linked to allergies, rashes, and even cancer. Some even point out that many products labeled as "green" do not necessarily mean safe.
Consumers’ right to choose
For consumers concerned about health and the environment, choosing the right products has become particularly important. Use the EPA's Safer Choices program to get information about safe products. Additionally, many smaller companies offer all-natural soaps and cleansers, but consumers still need to be careful with their selection.
Making your own soap at home is also becoming an increasingly popular option, ensuring the purity of ingredients and reducing harmful chemicals found in commercial products.
Looking to the future
The trade-offs between modern detergents and traditional soaps are not only issues of functionality, environmental protection and cost, but also about how we treat this range of cleaning products that impact health and the environment. Can various new technologies and scientific advancements truly replace traditional soap, or will it continue to depend on our own choices, which we can only continue to question and be vigilant about?
