The Problem with Plastic and Possible Solutions

Introduction to Plastic

• Essential uses: fresh food delivery, climate control, medical safety.
• Environmental issues: Presence in soil, oceans, and animal stomachs.
• Fact: The mass of plastic exceeds that of all land and sea creatures alive.

Versatility and Historical Context

• Uses: car parts, bulletproof vests, wind turbines.
• First created in the 1860s to replace elephant ivory in billiard balls.
• Popularized during WWII; commercial production surged in the 1960s.
• Forms: polyene, acrylic, nylon, polyester, vinyl.

Consumption and Consequences

• Rapid growth: Plastic’s affordability led to increased use.
• Environmental impact: Found in deep ocean creatures and human food systems.
• Climate change: Plastic contributes ~3.12% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
• Recycling statistics: Only ~9% of plastic is recycled globally.
• Regional differences: Some countries lack proper recycling infrastructure.
• Deteriorating quality: Recycled plastic often loses quality over time.

Longevity of Plastic Waste

• Decomposition times: Supermarket bag (20 years), plastic bottle (450 years).
• Biodegradable plastic: Pros and cons.
  • Made from plants but can release greenhouse gases (methane, CO2).
  • Breaks down into microplastics, entering food systems.

Circular Approach to Plastic Use

• Current model: Single-use, then disposal.
• Circular model: Design for long-term use and upcycling.
  • Example conversions: Coffee cup -> coat, toothbrush -> suitcase.
  • Cleaning and remolding for endless use.
• Benefits: Reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Examples of Circular Practices

• Temple in Thailand: Uses plastic bottles to make robes, processing 10 tons/month.
• Returnable packaging schemes: Reusable packaging systems in shops.
• Fleece jackets: Contain 95% recycled polyester fiber.

Conclusion

• We can’t eliminate plastic, but need to change its usage.
• Shift perspective: View plastic items as indispensable, not disposable.
• Highlight: We must stop “using once and throwing away” as “away” doesn’t exist.