PLASTICS AND MICROPLASTICS IN MODERN SOCIETY: BENEFITS, EMERGING APPLICATIONS, ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS, AND RECYCLING APPROACHES

Abstract

Plastics are synthetic polymers derived primarily from petrochemicals, known for their versatility, durability, and low cost. They are widely used across industries, including packaging, construction, automotive, and healthcare. However, their resistance to degradation has led to significant environmental concerns, particularly regarding pollution and waste management. Efforts are underway to develop biodegradable alternatives and improve recycling technologies. Addressing the challenges posed by plastics requires a combination of innovation, policy, and public awareness. The widespread use of plastics and their persistent nature have led to the global proliferation of microplastics—tiny plastic particles less than 5 mm in size—that pose severe threats to ecosystems and human health. Microplastics result from the breakdown of larger plastic debris and are resistant to natural degradation processes, enabling them to accumulate in soil, freshwater, marine environments, and even the food chain. This paper explores emerging strategies for microplastic degradation, including advanced chemical, biological, and photocatalytic methods that aim to accelerate breakdown into harmless byproducts. Simultaneously, plastic reuse has emerged as a vital component of sustainable waste management, aiming to reduce plastic pollution at the source. Techniques such as mechanical recycling, chemical upcycling, and innovative reuse in construction and packaging industries offer promising solutions. Integrating degradation technologies with circular economy practices enhances the potential to mitigate environmental pollution, conserve resources, and promote a more sustainable relationship with plastic materials.