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Polymers and the Environment

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Waste plastics

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Waste reduction – facts and figures

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When an object made out of a natural material (such

as cardboard) is thrown away, it is slowly broken down

by micro-organisms in the environment. This is known

as biodegrading.

What happens to waste plastic?

However, micro-organisms are

unable to break down most

types of plastic. Plastic is

generally non-biodegradable.

What implications does this have for the environment?

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In the UK, 3.5 million tonnes of plastic packaging is thrown

away each year. Plastic litter can cause significant harm to

animals and birds.

There are three ways to

dispose of waste plastics:

Each method of disposal

has its own advantages

and disadvantages.

landfill

incineration (burning)

recycling.

Why has the issue of dealing with waste plastic in a cheap

and environmentally-friendly way become more important?

How much waste plastic?

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Disposal of waste plastics

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How is waste plastic disposed?

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Landfill – pros and cons

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Incineration – pros and cons

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Recycling – pros and cons

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Disposing plastics

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Biodegradable plastics

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Biodegradable plastics are

increasingly being used in carrier

bags, bin bags and food packaging.

One of the problems with traditional plastics is that they do

not break down when thrown away.

Biodegradable plastics are

plastics that can be broken down.

They are converted into carbon

dioxide, water and minerals by

micro-organisms.

Biodegradable plastics, such as polylactide, are plant-

based polymers. They are often made from starch that has

been modified to become more stable.

What are biodegradable plastics?

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How is biodegradable plastic made?

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What can businesses

and individuals do to

reduce the amount of

waste they produce?

Dealing with waste is

important, but there are

many issues involved.

If more products are made from biodegradable plastics,

how will the management of landfill sites change?

Dealing with waste

How many products could be made from

biodegradable plastic?

What will happen to closed landfill sites in the future?

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Summary activities

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Glossary

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Multiple-choice quiz