" Only we humans make waste that nature cannot digest " 

Lesson Objectives

• describe the problem of pollution caused by disposal of plastics

• describe two methods of recycling plastics (physical and chemical method)

• discuss the social, economic and environmental issues of recycling plastics

1. Land pollution

2. Air pollution

3. Water pollution

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Problems caused by disposal of plastics

Recycling Plastics

How can we recycle plastics

Recycling plastics can be carried out by using the
1. physical method
2. chemical method

As not all plastics can be recycled, the plastic waste need to undergo pre-treatment before recycling.

Chemical composition changed.

Converts plastic waste into raw materials via cracking to form shorter chain hydrocarbons.

Chemical method

Chemical composition remains unchanged
After pre-treatment, plastics are melted, cooled, pulled into long strands and cut into pellets.

Physical method

Methods to Recycling Plastics

Issues with recycling plastics

Environmental Issues

Wastewater from recycling plastics can contaminate water bodies if not treated properly before discharging them.

Issues with recycling plastics

Economic Issues

Costly : Transporting of plastic wastes to processing plant, pre-treatment of plastics, recycling using the two methods as it require more manpower, machines and energy.
Therefore, it may not economically viable to recycle plastic waste if the cost is higher than the value of the plastic.

Issues with recycling plastics

Social Issues

Many people
1. find it more convenient to throw away plastic wastes.
2. are not aware the proper way to recycle plastics.

Thus it require time and effort to for people to adipt recycling habits.

Addressing recycling issues

1. Stricter measures and laws to minimise environmental pollution.

2. Educate the public on the correct way to recycle plastic waste.

3. Introduce creative ways to encourage people to recycle such as the Reverse Vending Machines.