While the British public debates what they think of implementing plastic currency, they should consider how much dirt and bacteria is collected on paper money.
Last week the Bank of England opened the public discussion of replacing paper notes with new plastic notes. The bank presented several reasons that highlighted the merits of polymer currency—such as reducing the health risks often associated with paper cash transactions.
Paper banknotes are notorious for being covered in bacteria and causing illness, but are these accusations warranted? In different regions around the world, many believe cotton fibered-currencies can carry diseases or traces of illegal drugs. The article indicates that probability of infection depends on various factors such as the weave used to create the cash, the length of time that the note has been in circulation and where the note has traveled.
Yahoo reported that germs are easily transferable when consumers are handling cash because paper acts as a magnet for small bacteria. Studies have shown that coins can also carry germs, however not nearly as much found on paper money. “Paper money is by far the best way for germs to be transferred from person to person,” reported Yahoo.
Since cash machines were first introduced, researchers have accused the technology of spreading germs to consumers, reported The Telegraph. Several people are constantly touching the keypad buttons throughout the day, which raises equal concern about cash machine cleanliness.
Polymer bank notes are made with more durable material that is less likely to tear and harder to replicate. Additionally, the Bank of England reports that plastic currency is much cleaner than paper.
The BBC News reported that the Bank of England is strongly pushing the new notes. Bank members believe polymer is cleaner because the material resists dirt and moisture. Stains and bacteria that often stains current paper bank notes could be easily wiped off plastic notes and prevent potential growing bacteria.
Plastic bank notes are nothing new, and have actually been used or are currently being used in several other countries. The countries that have distributed some or all denominations of bank notes include Australia, Singapore, Mexico, Israel, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Vietnam, Romania, Northern Ireland and Canada.
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