33 (+1)R (+1)R conceptconceptIn solving plastic waste disposal problem

by Lee Jo May Universiti Sains Malaysia

Sept 20, 2010

Discuss problems derived from irresponsible plastic waste disposal

Explain and highlight the contribution of 3(+1)R concept in plastic waste management

Focus on development of (+1)R – Introduction to biodegradable plastic

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OvervieOvervieww

1. Plastics low biodegradability

2. Limited landfills

3. Expanding population and industrialisation

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PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC

WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE

PLASTIC EARTH

3 (+1 ) R Concept

Redevelop

3 R (+1) R

Reduce

Reuse

Recycle

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2 reasons

3R insufficient

Introduce biodegradable

plastic

Non-degradable Degradable

‘Biodegradable’ material definition :

‘a material capable of undergoing decomposition into carbon dioxide, water, methane, or biomass resulted from the enzymatic action of microorganisms, which can be measured by standardized tests, in a specified period of time reflecting available disposal condition. ’

-ASTM-

Redevelop

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Eg. :

Cellulose

Eg. :

Polyesters

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Life cycle of ‘GREEN’ biodegradable plastic material

NATURALRESOURCE

S

HARVEST

BIODEGRADABLE POLYMER

CARBON DIOXIDE & WATER

(CO2 + H2O+C residue)

DISPOSABLE

PRODUCT

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……BIODEGRADATION……

Increasing Time

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Conventional vs Biodegradable

Composition Conventional plastics

Biodegradable plastics

Example Polyethylene, polypropylene

Starch, Cellulose, polyesters

Biodegradability Bad Excellent

Price Commonly cheap Mostly expensive

Application Wide variety Limited applications

Raw materials Unrenewable Renewable

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Conclusions

3R is insufficient to overcome problems of plastic waste accumulation.

3R & (+1)R [redeveloping plastic materials] should coexist.

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