plastic as an environmental damager

8/14/2019 Plastic as an Environmental Damager

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PLASTIC AS ANPLASTIC AS ANENVIRONMENTALENVIRONMENTAL

DAMAGERDAMAGER


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INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTIONOur Environment is consist of manyOur Environment is consist of many

biotic & abiotic components.biotic & abiotic components.In which human beings are veryIn which human beings are very

important component, for its benefitsimportant component, for its benefitshuman being has made many ups &human being has made many ups &downs in environment.downs in environment.

So, plastic is also one of the outcomeSo, plastic is also one of the outcomeof such ups & downs.of such ups & downs.As in current era plastic is anAs in current era plastic is an

important constituent, so current era isimportant constituent, so current era is


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What is plastic?What is plastic?Plastic is a common name for Polymers:Plastic is a common name for Polymers:

materials made of long strings of carbon andmaterials made of long strings of carbon andother elements. Each unit in a string is called aother elements. Each unit in a string is called amonomer, and is a chemical usually derivedmonomer, and is a chemical usually derivedfrom oil.from oil.

The monomer is made into polymer by chain- The monomer is made into polymer by chain-linking reactions. This is like making a daisylinking reactions. This is like making a daisychain. Instead of flowers, carbon atoms arechain. Instead of flowers, carbon atoms are

joined together. The appearance of the daisy joined together. The appearance of the daisy

chain will be different if you use differentchain will be different if you use differentcoloured flowers, and so will polymers.coloured flowers, and so will polymers. There are many different types of plastic, There are many different types of plastic,depending on the starting monomer selected,depending on the starting monomer selected,

the length of polymer chains, and the type of the length of polymer chains, and the type of modif in com ounds added. Each lastic hasmodif in com ounds added. Each lastic has


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PLASTIC AS A WORLDPLASTIC AS A WORLDWASTEWASTE

Every year, around 500 billion plastic bags are usedEvery year, around 500 billion plastic bags are usedworldwide. 500,000,000,000. Five hundred followed byworldwide. 500,000,000,000. Five hundred followed bynine zeros. Every man, woman and child on our planetnine zeros. Every man, woman and child on our planetuses 83 plastic bags every year.uses 83 plastic bags every year.


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Plastic bags have been a part of society for decades.Plastic bags have been a part of society for decades.From light weight plastic bags found in supermarkets toFrom light weight plastic bags found in supermarkets toheavier duty bags found in department stores. Inheavier duty bags found in department stores. Ingeneral most plastic bags are made from ethylenegeneral most plastic bags are made from ethylenewhich is a gas produced as a by-product from otherwhich is a gas produced as a by-product from otherindustrial processes. The light weight supermarket bagsindustrial processes. The light weight supermarket bagsare made of high density polyethene (HDPE) while theare made of high density polyethene (HDPE) while theheavier bags are made from low density polyetheneheavier bags are made from low density polyethene(LDPE).(LDPE).While plastic seems to be a product that could beWhile plastic seems to be a product that could bereused, the reality is that it is not. Statistics collectedreused, the reality is that it is not. Statistics collectedby the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that onlyby the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that only1% of all plastic bags are reused. That means 99% go1% of all plastic bags are reused. That means 99% goout in the trash or are dumped after only one use.out in the trash or are dumped after only one use.While these bags may seem completely harmless, theyWhile these bags may seem completely harmless, theyhave a devastating effect on the environment. If youhave a devastating effect on the environment. If youtalk the time to walk around your local neighborhoodtalk the time to walk around your local neighborhood

you will see plastic bags dumped in park lands, inyou will see plastic bags dumped in park lands, inwaterways, and most other places.waterways, and most other places.


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HISTORY OF PLASTICHISTORY OF PLASTICIn today's world, life without plastics is incomprehensible. Every day,In today's world, life without plastics is incomprehensible. Every day,

plastics contribute to our health, safety and peace of mind. But whatplastics contribute to our health, safety and peace of mind. But what

about plastics' history - how were plastic materials invented andabout plastics' history - how were plastic materials invented anddiscovered? Who were the key individuals in plastics' development anddiscovered? Who were the key individuals in plastics' development anduse?use?

Alexander Parkes Invents First Man-Made PlasticAlexander Parkes Invents First Man-Made Plastic

The first man-made plastic was unveiled by Alexander Parkes at the The first man-made plastic was unveiled by Alexander Parkes at the1862 Great International Exhibition in London. This material - which the1862 Great International Exhibition in London. This material - which thepublic dubbed Parkesine - was an organic material derived from cellulosepublic dubbed Parkesine - was an organic material derived from cellulosethat once heated could be molded but that retained its shape whenthat once heated could be molded but that retained its shape whencooled. Parkes claimed that this new material could do anything rubbercooled. Parkes claimed that this new material could do anything rubberwas capable of, but at a lower price. He had discovered something thatwas capable of, but at a lower price. He had discovered something thatcould be transparent as well as carved into thousands of different shapes.could be transparent as well as carved into thousands of different shapes.

But Parkesine soon lost its luster, when investors pulled the plug on theBut Parkesine soon lost its luster, when investors pulled the plug on theproduct due to the high cost of the raw materials needed in its production.product due to the high cost of the raw materials needed in its production.


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Celluloid Makes Its DebutCelluloid Makes Its Debut

During the latter part of the 19th century, a rush was on to find aDuring the latter part of the 19th century, a rush was on to find a

replacement for ivory in billiards balls. Billiards became so popular thatreplacement for ivory in billiards balls. Billiards became so popular thatthousands of elephants were killed just so their valuable ivory could bethousands of elephants were killed just so their valuable ivory could beobtained. John Wesley Hyatt, an American, finally came upon the solutionobtained. John Wesley Hyatt, an American, finally came upon the solutionin 1869 with celluloid. Hyatt, upon spilling a bottle of collodion in hisin 1869 with celluloid. Hyatt, upon spilling a bottle of collodion in hisworkshop, discovered that the material congealed into a tough, flexibleworkshop, discovered that the material congealed into a tough, flexiblefilm. He then produced billiard balls using collodion as a substitute forfilm. He then produced billiard balls using collodion as a substitute for

ivory. But due to its highly brittle nature, the billiard balls would shatterivory. But due to its highly brittle nature, the billiard balls would shatteronce they hit each other. The solution to this challenge was the addition of once they hit each other. The solution to this challenge was the addition of camphor - a derivative of the laurel tree. This addition made celluloid thecamphor - a derivative of the laurel tree. This addition made celluloid thefirst thermoplastic: a substance molded under heat and pressure into afirst thermoplastic: a substance molded under heat and pressure into ashape it retains even after the heat and pressure have been removed.shape it retains even after the heat and pressure have been removed.Celluloid went on to be used in the first flexible photographic film for stillCelluloid went on to be used in the first flexible photographic film for still

and motion pictures.and motion pictures.


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BakeliteBakelite The first completely synthetic man-made substance was discovered in The first completely synthetic man-made substance was discovered in1907, when Leo Baekeland, a New York chemist, developed a liquid resin1907, when Leo Baekeland, a New York chemist, developed a liquid resinthat he named Bakelite. Baekeland had developed an apparatus - whichthat he named Bakelite. Baekeland had developed an apparatus - whichhe called a Bakelizer - that enabled him to vary heat and pressurehe called a Bakelizer - that enabled him to vary heat and pressureprecisely so as to control the reaction of volatile chemicalsprecisely so as to control the reaction of volatile chemicals

RayonRayonRayon - another modified cellulose - was first developed in 1891 in ParisRayon - another modified cellulose - was first developed in 1891 in Paris

by Louis Marie Hilaire Bernigaut, the Count of Chardonnet.by Louis Marie Hilaire Bernigaut, the Count of Chardonnet.

CellophaneCell ophane Cellophane was discovered by Dr. Jacques Edwin Brandenberger, a SwissCellophane was discovered by Dr. Jacques Edwin Brandenberger, a Swiss

textile engineer, who came upon the idea for a clear, protective,textile engineer, who came upon the idea for a clear, protective,

packaging layer in 1900. Brandenberger was seated atpackaging layer in 1900. Brandenberger was seated at

NylonNylon In 1920 DuPont, one of the industry leaders, became a hotbed forIn 1920 DuPont, one of the industry leaders, became a hotbed for

innovation concerning plastics. Wallace Hume Carothers, a young Harvardinnovation concerning plastics. Wallace Hume Carothers, a young Harvard

chemist, became the head of the DuPont lab. The company waschemist, became the head of the DuPont lab. The company wasresponsible for the moisture-proofing of Cellophane and was well on itsresponsible for the moisture-proofing of Cellophane and was well on its


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PVCPVCAnother important plastic innovation of the time was the development of Another important plastic innovation of the time was the development of

polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or vinyl. Waldo Semon, a B.F. Goodrich organicpolyvinyl chloride (PVC), or vinyl. Waldo Semon, a B.F. Goodrich organicchemist, was attempting to bind rubber to metal when he stumbled acrosschemist, was attempting to bind rubber to metal when he stumbled acrossPVC.PVC.

SaranTMSaranTM In 1933, Ralph Wiley, a Dow Chemical lab worker, accidentally discoveredIn 1933, Ralph Wiley, a Dow Chemical lab worker, accidentally discovered

yet another plastic: polyvinylidene chloride (better known as SaranTM).yet another plastic: polyvinylidene chloride (better known as SaranTM).

TeflonTeflon A DuPont chemist named Roy Plunkett discovered Teflon, in 1938.A DuPont chemist named Roy Plunkett discovered Teflon, in 1938.

Teflon today is widely used in kitchenware. Teflon today is widely used in kitchenware.

PolyethylenePol yethylene In 1933, two organic chemists working for the Imperial ChemicalIn 1933, two organic chemists working for the Imperial Chemical

Industries Research Laboratory were testing various chemicals underIndustries Research Laboratory were testing various chemicals underhighly pressurized conditions. In their wildest imaginations, the twohighly pressurized conditions. In their wildest imaginations, the tworesearchers E.W. Fawcett and R.O. Gibson, had no idea that theresearchers E.W. Fawcett and R.O. Gibson, had no idea that the

revolutionary substance they would come across - polyethylene - wouldrevolutionary substance they would come across - polyethylene - wouldhave an enormous impact on the world.have an enormous impact on the world.


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VelcroVelcro The birth of Velcro, yet another unique plastic product which has The birth of Velcro, yet another unique plastic product which hasimpacted nearly all of our lives, occurred in 1957. A Swiss engineer namedimpacted nearly all of our lives, occurred in 1957. A Swiss engineer namedGeorge de Maestral devised a product, using nylon, that replicated thisGeorge de Maestral devised a product, using nylon, that replicated thisnatural phenomenon.natural phenomenon.

Silly PuttySil ly Putty A plastic that has struck the fancy of many youngsters over the years isA plastic that has struck the fancy of many youngsters over the years is

plastic putty -- better known as Silly Putty. James Wright, a GE engineer,plastic putty -- better known as Silly Putty. James Wright, a GE engineer,

came upon the material by mixing silicone oil with boric acid.came upon the material by mixing silicone oil with boric acid.


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PLASTIC PROCESSINGPLASTIC PROCESSING Plastic processing includes those methods or processes, whichPlastic processing includes those methods or processes, which

are used to convert the plastic materials into different forms likeare used to convert the plastic materials into different forms likepowders , sheets, pellets etc. Some of the plastic processingpowders , sheets, pellets etc. Some of the plastic processingtechniques, are enumerated below :-techniques, are enumerated below :-

Extrusion MoldingExtrusion Moldi ng

Extrusion molding is a process in which plastic pelletsExtrusion molding is a process in which plastic pelletsor granules have been fluidized, homogenized, andor granules have been fluidized, homogenized, andcreated without interruptions.created without interruptions.Extrusion is used for making long shapes or largeExtrusion is used for making long shapes or largeamount of small shapes.amount of small shapes. The extrusion process results in various product like The extrusion process results in various product liketube, pipe, sheets, wires etc.tube, pipe, sheets, wires etc.In the extrusion process, pipes and tubes areIn the extrusion process, pipes and tubes are

obtained by forcing the melt via a cylindrical die.obtained by forcing the melt via a cylindrical die.


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Injection MoldingInjection MoldingInjection molding consists of heating andInjection molding consists of heating and

homogenizing the plastics granules in a cylinder.homogenizing the plastics granules in a cylinder. The homogenizing and heating is done until the plastic The homogenizing and heating is done until the plasticgranules are completely transformed into liquid.granules are completely transformed into liquid.

Then pressure is injected to solidify it and allow it to Then pressure is injected to solidify it and allow it totake the shape of mold pit.take the shape of mold pit.

Advantages of injection molding processAdvantages of injection molding process

Production speed is very fast.Production speed is very fast.For the post-molding process, the requirements areFor the post-molding process, the requirements areminimal.minimal.Multi-part molding can be done simultaneously.Multi-part molding can be done simultaneously.


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Blow MoldingBlow Moldin g

Blow molding involves different procedures, some of Blow molding involves different procedures, some of which are described below :-which are described below :-

At initial stage, a tube that is also called a parison, isAt initial stage, a tube that is also called a parison, isformed.formed.

The tube is then expanded into a hollow object by The tube is then expanded into a hollow object by

introducing air and/or other gases.introducing air and/or other gases. The tube (parison), is made by the application of The tube (parison), is made by the application of extrusion molding.extrusion molding.

Thermoforming MoldingThermoformin g Molding

Thermoforming molding is the process by which the Thermoforming molding is the process by which theplastic sheets are created into parts, with theplastic sheets are created into parts, with theapplication of heat and pressure.application of heat and pressure.

This molding process is capable of handling any size of This molding process is capable of handling any size of parts.parts.


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Apart from these plastic processing methods, there areApart from these plastic processing methods, there aremany other different techniques for the processing of many other different techniques for the processing of plastics, like :plastics, like :

Rotational MoldingRotational Molding

Compression MoldingCompression Molding

Transfer Molding Transfer Molding

Reaction Injection MoldingReaction Injection Molding


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TYPES OF PLASTICS TYPES OF PLASTICS

There exist about 50 different types of plastics. Broadly There exist about 50 different types of plastics. Broadlyplastics can be classified into two types namelyplastics can be classified into two types namely Thermosetting and Thermoplastic. Thermosetting and Thermoplastic.

ThermosettingThermosettin g The Thermosetting Plastics are those that cannot be The Thermosetting Plastics are those that cannot besoften again, after being exposed to heat and pressure.soften again, after being exposed to heat and pressure.

ThermoplasticTherm oplasticThe thermoplastic are those that can be soften again The thermoplastic are those that can be soften againand again & remade by the action of heat and pressure.and again & remade by the action of heat and pressure.


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Some of the different thermoplastic and thermosettingSome of the different thermoplastic and thermosettingplastics are mentioned belowplastics are mentioned below

Vinyl PlasticsVinyl Plastics :- Vinyl plastics belong to the:- Vinyl plastics belong to thethermoplastic group. Vinyl plastics are the sub-thermoplastic group. Vinyl plastics are the sub-polymers of vinyl derivatives. These are used inpolymers of vinyl derivatives. These are used in

laminated safety glasses, flexible tubing, moldedlaminated safety glasses, flexible tubing, moldedproducts etc.products etc.

Polyurethane PlasticsPolyurethane Plastics :- Polyurethane plastics belong:- Polyurethane plastics belong

to the group that can be thermosetting orto the group that can be thermosetting orthermoplastic.thermoplastic.

Polyacrylics PlasticsPolyacrylics Plastics :- Polyacrylics belong to the:- Polyacrylics belong to the

group of thermoplastics. Polyacrylics are transparentgroup of thermoplastics. Polyacrylics are transparentand decorative. Pol acr lics lastics can be sha ed in


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Apart from these, plastics have been also divided intoApart from these, plastics have been also divided intoseven different types by the plastic industry, which are:seven different types by the plastic industry, which are:

Pillow andsleeping bag

filling,clothing, softdrink bottles

carpetRecycling

bins, compostbins, buckets,detergent

containers,posts, fencing,

pipes

Soft drinkand water

bottles, saladdomes,biscuit trays,

saladdressing andpeanut butter

containers

Clear, toughsolvent

resistant,barrier to gasand moisture,

softens ataround 80C

PET Polyethylene

Terephthalate

RecycledIn

CommonUses

PropertiesType of Plastic


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Rubbish binliners, pallet

sheets

Plastic Foodwrap, garbagebags, squeezebottles, black

irrigation tube,garbage bins

Soft, flexible,waxy surface,translucent,

softens at70C,

scratcheseasily

PE-LD

Low densityPolyethylene

(LDPE)

Recycling bins,compost bins,

buckets,

detergentcontainers,posts, fencing,

pipes

Hard to semi-flexible,

resistant to

chemicals andmoisture,waxy surface,

opaque,softens at

around 75C,easily colored,processed and

formed

Crinklyshopping

bags, freezer

bags, milkbottles, icecream

containers, juice bottles,

shampoo,chemical and

detergentbottles,

buckets, rigidagricultural

pipe, milkcrates

PE-HD High DensityPolyethylene

(HDPE)


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PVC

UnplasticisedPolyvinyl

Chloride PVC-U

PlasticisedPolyvinyl Chloride

PCV-P

Strong, tough,can be clear,

can be solventwelded, softensat around 80C

Flexible, clear,elastic, can be

solvent welded

Cosmeticcontainers,electricalconduit,

plumbing pipesand fittings,

blister packs,wall cladding,roof sheeting,

bottles

garden hose,shoe soles, cable

sheathing, blood bags and tubing,

watch straps

Flooring, filmand sheets,

cables, speed bumps,

packaging, binders, mud

flaps andmats


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PS

Polystyrene

PS-E Expanded Polystyrene

Clear, glassy,rigid, brittle,

opaque, semi-

tough, softensat 95C.

Affected by fatsand solvents

Foamed, lightweight, energyabsorbing, heat

insulating

CD cases, plastic cutlery,

imitation

'crystalglassware', lowcost brittle toys,

video cases

Foamed polystyrene hotdrink cups,hamburger takeaway

clamshells,foamed meat

trays, protective packaging for fragile items

Coat hangers,coasters,

white ware

components,stationerytrays and

accessories


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PP Polypropylene

Hard but stillflexible, waxy

surface, softens

at around 140C,translucent,withstandssolvents,versatile

Dip bottles andice cream tubs,

potato chip bags,

straws,microwavedishes, kettles,

garden furniture,lunch boxes, blue

packing tape

Pegs, bins, pipes, pallet

sheets, oil

funnels, car battery cases,trays

OTHER Letters below indicateISO code for plastic

type e.g. SAN, ABS,PC, Nylon

Includes allother resins andmulti materials(e.g. laminates).

Propertiesdepend on plastic or

combination of plastics

Car parts,appliance parts,

electronics, water cooler bottles, packaging

Car parts,concrete

aggregate, plastic timber


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Heat insulatingHeat insulatin gPlastic has a low thermal conductivityPlastic has a low thermal conductivity

High strengthHi gh strengthPlastic is strong in relation to its weightPlastic is strong in relation to its weight

Low frictionLow frictionPlastic has a low friction coefficientPlastic has a low friction coefficient

Low weightLow wei ghtPlastic is lightPlastic is light

No electrical conductivityNo electrical conductivi tyPlastic has a low electrical conductivityPlastic has a low electrical conductivity

No maintenanceNo maintenancePlastic requires minimal maintenancePlastic requires minimal maintenance

ResistantResistantPlastic is resistant to solvents and many otherPlastic is resistant to solvents and many other


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USES OF PLASTICUSES OF PLASTIC

AeronauticsAeronautics :- In the field of aeronautics, plastics are:- In the field of aeronautics, plastics arenow being preferred over other elements, for the use innow being preferred over other elements, for the use inspaceships.spaceships.

Building and ConstructionBuilding and Construction :- Plastics have the:- Plastics have thecutting edge corrosion resistance property. This makescutting edge corrosion resistance property. This makes

plastic very popular to be uses in various pipes andplastic very popular to be uses in various pipes andvalvesvalves

DecorationDecoration :- The properties of plastics like durability,:- The properties of plastics like durability,attractiveness, and easy handling make them aattractiveness, and easy handling make them aastounding decorative items.astounding decorative items.

ElectronicsElectronics :- The insulating and thermal properties of :- The insulating and thermal properties of the plastics, make them ideal for the use in variousthe plastics, make them ideal for the use in various

electronic devices.electronic devices.


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PLASTIC POLLUTIONPLASTIC POLLUTIONSince the development of plastic in the fifties of theSince the development of plastic in the fifties of thepast century by German scientist, it has become apast century by German scientist, it has become apopular material used in a wide variety of ways.popular material used in a wide variety of ways.Plastics are used because they are easy and cheap toPlastics are used because they are easy and cheap tomake and they can last a long time.make and they can last a long time.Of late, it is used even for producing boxes, utensils,Of late, it is used even for producing boxes, utensils,doors and other commercial items.doors and other commercial items.


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But unfortunately, because of the same useful qualities,But unfortunately, because of the same useful qualities,it poses a serious and huge pollution problem.it poses a serious and huge pollution problem.

It can do great harm to environment as it doesn'tIt can do great harm to environment as it doesn'tdecompose and requires high energy ultra-violet lightdecompose and requires high energy ultra-violet lightto break down. In addition to using up fossil fuels andto break down. In addition to using up fossil fuels andother resources, plastic products create litter andother resources, plastic products create litter and

threaten the basis of life on earth.threaten the basis of life on earth.Plastic is one of the few new chemical materials whichPlastic is one of the few new chemical materials whichpose environmental problem. Polyethylene, polyvinylpose environmental problem. Polyethylene, polyvinylchloride, polystyrene is largely used in the manufacturechloride, polystyrene is largely used in the manufactureof plastics.of plastics.


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Plastic in the environment is regarded to be more anPlastic in the environment is regarded to be more anaesthetic nuisance than a hazard, since the material isaesthetic nuisance than a hazard, since the material is

biologically quite inert.biologically quite inert. The plastic industry in the US alone is $ 50 billion per The plastic industry in the US alone is $ 50 billion peryear and is obviously a tempting market foryear and is obviously a tempting market forbiotechnological enterprises.biotechnological enterprises.

Biotechnological processes are being developed as anBiotechnological processes are being developed as analternative to existing route or to get newalternative to existing route or to get newbiodegradable biopolymers .biodegradable biopolymers .20% of solid municipal wastes in US is plastic. Non-20% of solid municipal wastes in US is plastic. Non-degradable plastics accumulate at the rate of 25 milliondegradable plastics accumulate at the rate of 25 milliontones per year.tones per year.According to an estimate more than 100 million tonesAccording to an estimate more than 100 million tones

of plastic is produced every year all over the world. Inof plastic is produced every year all over the world. InIndia it is only 2 million tones. In India use of plastic is 2India it is only 2 million tones. In India use of plastic is 2kg per person per year while in European countries it iskg per person per year while in European countries it is


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Plastic thrown on land can enter into drainage lines andPlastic thrown on land can enter into drainage lines andchokes them resulting into floods in local areas in citieschokes them resulting into floods in local areas in citiesas experienced in Mumbai, India in 26 July,2005.as experienced in Mumbai, India in 26 July,2005.It was claimed in one of the programmes on TV ChannelIt was claimed in one of the programmes on TV Channelthat eating plastic bags results in death of 100 cattle'sthat eating plastic bags results in death of 100 cattle'sper day in U.P. in India. In stomach of one dead cow, asper day in U.P. in India. In stomach of one dead cow, asmuch as 35 kg of plastic was found.much as 35 kg of plastic was found.

Because plastic does not decompose, and requires highBecause plastic does not decompose, and requires highenergy ultra-violet light to break down, the amount of energy ultra-violet light to break down, the amount of plastic waste in our oceans is steadily increasing.plastic waste in our oceans is steadily increasing.


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More than 90% of the articles found on the sea beachesMore than 90% of the articles found on the sea beachescontained plastic. The plastic rubbish found on beachescontained plastic. The plastic rubbish found on beaches

near urban areas tends to originate from use on land,near urban areas tends to originate from use on land,such as packaging material used to wrap around othersuch as packaging material used to wrap around othergoods.goods.

EFFECTS ONEFFECTS ON


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EFFECTS ONEFFECTS ON

ENVIRONMENTENVIRONMENTOur planet is becoming increasingly contaminated byOur planet is becoming increasingly contaminated byour unnecessary use of plastic bags.our unnecessary use of plastic bags.Plastic bags are difficult and costly to recycle and mostPlastic bags are difficult and costly to recycle and mostend up on landfill sites where they take around 300end up on landfill sites where they take around 300years to photodegrade. They break down into tiny toxicyears to photodegrade. They break down into tiny toxicparticles that contaminate the soil and waterways andparticles that contaminate the soil and waterways andenter the food chain when animals accidentally ingestenter the food chain when animals accidentally ingestthemthem


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Human healthHuman health

Many chemical ingredients used in manufacturing plastic goodsMany chemical ingredients used in manufacturing plastic goodsincluding benzene, vinyl chloride, ethylene oxides, xylems andincluding benzene, vinyl chloride, ethylene oxides, xylems andbisphend A are linked with numerous health hazards andbisphend A are linked with numerous health hazards andreproductive problems.reproductive problems.When the toxic chemicals contained in plastic products leach fromWhen the toxic chemicals contained in plastic products leach from

packaging into food and thus enter people's bodies, they causepackaging into food and thus enter people's bodies, they causemany tribulations including cancer, birth defects, hormonemany tribulations including cancer, birth defects, hormonechanges, respiratory problems, gastric ulcers, and eye and liverchanges, respiratory problems, gastric ulcers, and eye and liverproblems.problems.


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Air pollutionAir pollution The manufacturing process of plastic products in plastic industries The manufacturing process of plastic products in plastic industries

releases huge quantity of dangerous gaseous chemicals into thereleases huge quantity of dangerous gaseous chemicals into theair including carbon monoxide, dioxin and hydrogen cyanide.air including carbon monoxide, dioxin and hydrogen cyanide. These gases pollute air seriously These gases pollute air seriously ..

Soil pollutionSoil pollutionSoil, one of the most valuable natural resources, is also badlySoil, one of the most valuable natural resources, is also badlyaffected by plastic pollution. Many times both consciously andaffected by plastic pollution. Many times both consciously andsurreptitiously we dispose of plastic products on land. As plasticsurreptitiously we dispose of plastic products on land. As plasticgoods never biodegrade completely, remnants remain in the soil,goods never biodegrade completely, remnants remain in the soil,


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Water pollutionWater pollutionApart from the scarcity of drinkable water, we are facing a seriousApart from the scarcity of drinkable water, we are facing a serious

problem of water pollution by plastic waste. Very often we disposeproblem of water pollution by plastic waste. Very often we disposeof discarded plastic products in different water bodies includingof discarded plastic products in different water bodies includinglakes, rivers, ponds, etclakes, rivers, ponds, etc

Marine biodiversityMarine biodiversity By discarding plastic thoughtlessly especially fishing gear andBy discarding plastic thoughtlessly especially fishing gear andpackaging, people are accidentally causing the death of millions of packaging, people are accidentally causing the death of millions of mammals, birds, reptiles and fish every year. Plastic can affectmammals, birds, reptiles and fish every year. Plastic can affect

marine wildlife in two important ways: by entangling creatures,marine wildlife in two important ways: by entangling creatures,and by being eaten.and by being eaten.


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PLASTIC SOUPPLASTIC SOUP

A "plastic soup" of waste floating in the Pacific Ocean is growing at an alarmingrate and now covers an area twice the size of the continental United States,

scientists have said.

This drifting "soup" stretches from about 500 nautical miles off the Californiancoast, across the northern Pacific, past Hawaii and almost as far as Japan. CharlesMoore, an American oceanographer who discovered the "Great Pacific GarbagePatch" or "trash vortex", believes that about 100 million tons of flotsam are

circulating in the region.


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Eco-Friendly PlasticsEco-Friendly PlasticsHowever newer technology is being developed in thisHowever newer technology is being developed in this

regard. This entails the use of DEGRADABLE PLASTICS.regard. This entails the use of DEGRADABLE PLASTICS. The principal is to incorporate into the plastic some The principal is to incorporate into the plastic somechemical that is photodegradable or biodegradable orchemical that is photodegradable or biodegradable orchemically treatablechemically treatable

PhotodegradablePhotod egradable Photo-degradable plastics contain chemicals that slowlyPhoto-degradable plastics contain chemicals that slowly

disintegrate when exposed to light. In France, strips of photo-disintegrate when exposed to light. In France, strips of photo-degradable plastic about 3 ft (1mtr) wide are used to retain heat indegradable plastic about 3 ft (1mtr) wide are used to retain heat inthe soil and produce early crops.the soil and produce early crops.BiodegradableBiode gradableBy adding starch, biodegradable plastics are generally made. OnBy adding starch, biodegradable plastics are generally made. Onburial such plastics are attacked by bacteria feeding on starch,burial such plastics are attacked by bacteria feeding on starch,which breaks these down into tiny particles that disappearwhich breaks these down into tiny particles that disappearharmlessly into the soil.harmlessly into the soil.

Ch i ll T blCh i ll

T t bl


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Chemically TreatableChemicall y Treatable Chemically degradable plastics can be broken up by sprayingChemically degradable plastics can be broken up by spraying

them with a solution that causes them to dissolve. For examplethem with a solution that causes them to dissolve. For examplesuch material can be used as a protective wax covering for newsuch material can be used as a protective wax covering for newcars that wash off at the dealer's garage by a specially formulatedcars that wash off at the dealer's garage by a specially formulatedspray.spray.

In order to obviate the disposal problems and toIn order to obviate the disposal problems and toprevent Environmental pollution caused by routinelyprevent Environmental pollution caused by routinelyused polythene packaging materials; it would beused polythene packaging materials; it would be

prudent, for the present, to use eco-friendly paperprudent, for the present, to use eco-friendly paperpackaging.packaging. The manufacturers of plastic packaging like soft drink The manufacturers of plastic packaging like soft drinkbottles/mineral water bottles etc must come forwardbottles/mineral water bottles etc must come forwardand develop appropriate methods of disposal/ownand develop appropriate methods of disposal/own

responsibility for disposal.responsibility for disposal.Plastic industries manufacturing plastic bags (below 20Plastic industries manufacturing plastic bags (below 20microns) thin sheets, thin cups and thin bottles, shouldmicrons) thin sheets, thin cups and thin bottles, shouldbe informed about its ill-effects on the environment andbe informed about its ill-effects on the environment andadvised not to manufacture such items. If the industryadvised not to manufacture such items. If the industryis located in a residential area, action should be takenis located in a residential area, action should be taken


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SOLUTIONS FOR PLASTIC POLLUTIONSOLUTIONS FOR PLASTIC POLLUTIONAlternative suitable for making Bags and packingAlternative suitable for making Bags and packing

material at competitive rate and convenience withoutmaterial at competitive rate and convenience withouthaving any negative aspect.having any negative aspect.

Research&Development to make plastic moreResearch&Development to make plastic moreenvironments friendly.environments friendly.Educate users to the right disposal methods.Educate users to the right disposal methods.

Reduce the no of users by reducing the population inReduce the no of users by reducing the population inthe long run.the long run.

Process vegetable, etc to higher density so as toProcess vegetable, etc to higher density so as toreduce the no of bags required to pack and carry.reduce the no of bags required to pack and carry.

Encourage reusable bags from traditional materials byEncourage reusable bags from traditional materials bysuitable advertisements to make it fashionable.suitable advertisements to make it fashionable.Cost of mfg bags with traditional material can beCost of mfg bags with traditional material can be

subsidized by printing advertisement on the bags.subsidized by printing advertisement on the bags.A tote bag can make a good substitute for holding theA tote bag can make a good substitute for holding theshopping. You can keep the bag with the cahier, andshopping. You can keep the bag with the cahier, and


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Recycling the plastic bags you already have isRecycling the plastic bags you already have isanother good idea. These can come into use foranother good idea. These can come into use forvarious purposes, like holding your garbage,various purposes, like holding your garbage,instead of purchasing new ones.instead of purchasing new ones.Choose goods with minimal packaging, andChoose goods with minimal packaging, andwhich are packaged in a material that can bewhich are packaged in a material that can berecycled or returned in your area.recycled or returned in your area.Buy products that are refillable.Buy products that are refillable.Encourage your local authority to buy products,Encourage your local authority to buy products,

such as street furniture, made from recycledsuch as street furniture, made from recycledplastic rather than wood.plastic rather than wood.


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What is Plastic RecyclingWhat is Plastic Recycling

Plastic recycling is the process of reprocessing plasticPlastic recycling is the process of reprocessing plasticthat already has been used before and giving it somethat already has been used before and giving it somenew reusable form. The steps followed in the plasticnew reusable form. The steps followed in the plasticrecycling are enumerated below :-recycling are enumerated below :-

Collecting recyclable plastic waste,.Collecting recyclable plastic waste,.Categorizing the recyclable plastic waste,.Categorizing the recyclable plastic waste,.Processing the categorized plastic waste, accordinglyProcessing the categorized plastic waste, accordinglyinto various raw materials, and.into various raw materials, and.

Manufacturing of new products from these rawManufacturing of new products from these rawmaterials..materials..

Some of the products formed by the various plasticSome of the products formed by the various plasticrecycling process are tables, lumber, stationery itemsrecycling process are tables, lumber, stationery itemsand many more durable products.and many more durable products.

CONCLUSIONCONCLUSION


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CONCLUSIONCONCLUSIONBy refusing to use plastic bags, you can makeBy refusing to use plastic bags, you can make

a huge difference to the pollution problem.a huge difference to the pollution problem.Remember that each person uses about 83Remember that each person uses about 83bags a year. If there are four people in yourbags a year. If there are four people in yourfamily, that's 332 plastic bags less every year.family, that's 332 plastic bags less every year.

That's 332 bags less that will: That's 332 bags less that will:Release toxins into the ground water fromRelease toxins into the ground water fromlandfill siteslandfill sitesStay in the environment for hundreds of yearsStay in the environment for hundreds of yearswhile they break downwhile they break downGet into the food chain through animals thatGet into the food chain through animals thatingest small particles of plasticingest small particles of plasticWaste energy during the manufacturingWaste energy during the manufacturing

rocessprocess


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Say no to plasticwhenever and wherever

you can.

plastic as an environmental damager

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