We are encouraging the reduction of plastic use, collection, and recycling of plastics to contribute to environmental protection, but not all plastics are recyclable.
The Plastic Recycling Issue: Current Status and Challenges
Plastic is one of the most widely used materials in the world, but not all types of plastic are easy to recycle. Some plastics can be melted down and processed into other products, while others are difficult to recycle due to containing components like dyes or flame retardants.
Not only is recycling plastic challenging, but finding buyers for recycled materials to produce new products is also a significant concern.
Plastic waste is seriously threatening the environment (Illustration: Getty).
Types of Plastic and Their Recyclability
There are many different types of plastic, categorized into 7 main types based on their components and unique characteristics. Plastics are made from fossil fuels such as petroleum or natural gas, and nowadays, can also be made from plants like corn.
Plastic is a synthetic material, composed of long molecular chains known as “polymers.” Different polymers create different types of plastics. Some polymers are easier to recycle because they can be melted down and transformed into new products. These types of plastics are labeled 1 and 2, commonly used for making drinking bottles and milk containers.
However, plastics such as number 3 and number 6 (styrofoam) are harder to recycle due to containing additives like dyes or flame retardants. Approximately 300 billion plastic cups become waste each year, unrecyclable because they are made from plastic-coated paper.
Separating plastic from other materials is very challenging, hindering recycling efforts. We can choose to use reusable or biodegradable cups instead of non-recyclable plastic cups.
Challenges in the Recycling Process
Plastic also needs to be cleaned before recycling. Not only are there technical issues regarding which types of plastic can be recycled, but there are also concerns about processing and consuming recycled plastic products.
Not everyone is willing to use products made from recycled plastic, leading to very few manufacturers interested in recycling plastic.
To improve the process, it is essential to encourage people to dispose of plastic waste properly in designated bins, have collectors ready to gather it, recycling facilities, and businesses eager to purchase recycled plastic products, along with consumers willing to use these products.
