Environmental Advocate Barbara Lacroix Urges Switch to Reusable Silicone Baking Mats

Environmental communicator Barbara Lacroix (known as @ceroresiduo) warns that traditional parchment or baking paper is difficult to recycle because it is coated with anti‑adhesive layers that contain persistent chemicals such as PFAS. The coating can break down above 216 °C, potentially releasing siloxanes that may be harmful if ingested over time.

Lacroix recommends replacing disposable paper with reusable silicone baking mats, which can endure high oven temperatures, be cleaned easily, and last for years, a practice already common in professional kitchens. She also notes that fully inert materials like stainless‑steel or glass trays present the safest option, as they do not leach chemicals even at extreme heat.

The shift aims to reduce single‑use kitchen waste and mitigate health risks associated with coated paper, aligning with broader calls from groups like Greenpeace and Zero Waste Europe to curb disposable kitchen products.