ühekordseks

Ühekordseks is an Estonian term used as an adjective and adverb to describe objects or actions intended for one-time use or consumption. An item described as ühekordseks is designed to be used once and then discarded, rather than being reusable. The form is derived from "üks" meaning one and "kord" meaning time or occurrence, with the suffix -seks forming a word that expresses suitability or manner.

In everyday language, ühekordseks is commonly seen on product labels, packaging, and consumer guidance. It is especially frequent in contexts involving disposable consumer goods such as plastic cups and plates, cutlery, single-use gloves, face masks, wet wipes, and certain medical or laboratory materials. The phrase "ühekordseks kasutamiseks" translates to "for single-use."

From an environmental and policy perspective, ühekordseks items are a focus of waste management and sustainability discussions because, after use, they contribute to waste and can pollute if not properly disposed of or recycled. Many stakeholders advocate for alternatives such as reusables (reusable containers, metal or glassware, cloth bags) and for policies aimed at reducing single-use plastics, including bans, charges, or improved recycling systems.

See also: disposable items, single-use plastics, sustainability, waste management.