Collecting Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) cards has been my passion for a decade now, but it deeply concerns me that every booster pack I open contributes to growing waste in our environment. The excitement and joy of ripping packs should not come with guilt about adding to single use plastic waste. Each booster box of 36 packs already generates 36 pieces of single use LDPE waste, which is rarely recycled due to its "low value", despite claims that it is completely recyclable. Even larger boxes like ultra premium sets or other collections use enormous amounts of plastic just to fill the space and keep cards in their positions, when alternatives to plastics could be used. Pokémon TCG has a massive global following, and if we all unite, we have the power to urge the manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices.

The problem with plastic is not just its long decomposition time, but also the harmful impact it has on wildlife and ecosystems. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, if current trends continue, there might be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. Companies worldwide are adopting eco friendly packaging solutions, with paper being a popular option due to its recyclability and lesser environmental impact.

By switching to recyclable paper packaging (perhaps not for the booster pack yet but for other components like placeholders in boxes), Pokémon TCG can drastically reduce its environmental footprint. Companies like LEGO and TCG sets like Flesh and Blood have shown that it’s possible to transition towards more sustainable packaging materials without compromising the product's integrity or customer satisfaction, with Flesh and Blood using recycled paper packaging for TCG booster packs. 

Our recommendations:

• Replace the moulded plastic used in collection boxes (ultra premium collection, themed collections) with biodegradable placeholder material
• Research into alternative, sustanainable protective materials for booster pack wrappers while keeping card safety in mind

I urge the Pokémon Company International to consider the potential positive impact this change would have on their loyal fans and the planet. This transition is not just a step towards reducing single use waste, but a commitment to sustainable growth and responsibility.

Let's push for Pokémon cards to be a more sustainable hobby, and ensure that our enthusiasm for TCG collecting doesn't harm the environment for future generations.