In modern society, plastic is all but ubiquitous. While the versatility and affordability of plastic have revolutionised manufacturing, the impact of plastics on sustainability has become a pressing concern, not just in Australia but worldwide.
As calls for sustainability grow, understanding the different types of plastics, their disposal methods, and alternative materials is crucial for promoting a more sustainable approach to plastic use.
Types of Plastics and Understanding the Material
Each type of plastic possesses unique properties that make it suitable for specific applications. Here is a breakdown of some of the most common plastics in use:
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET):
PET is the go-to material for beverage bottles, food packaging, and synthetic fibres. PET is highly recyclable, commonly turned into new bottles or polyester fabrics.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE):
HDPE is recyclable and regularly used for milk jugs, detergent bottles, and plastic pipes. It is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals.
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE):
Flexible and lightweight, LDPE is used in shopping bags, bread bags, and squeeze bottles. The recycling rate of LDPE is lower than PET and HDPE.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC):
Found in pipes, flooring, and some food packaging, PVC poses disposal and recycling challenges due to potentially harmful chemical additives.
Polypropylene (PP):
Generally recyclable, PP is a versatile plastic that is used in food containers, bottle caps, and carpets. It is heat-resistant and has a high melting point.
Polystyrene (PS):
Lightweight and insulating, commonly used in foam packaging, disposable cups, and food trays. While technically recyclable, the process takes a long time and facilities are rare.
The Plastic Disposal Dilemma
The ideal scenario for plastic sustainability is a closed-loop system where plastics are effectively recycled and reused, but reality paints a more complex picture. Plastic is a major threat to our oceans, causing harm to marine wildlife and potentially entering the food chain through microplastics. Here are some plastic waste disposal methods to help prevent that from happening:
Recycling
PET, HDPE, and PP are widely accepted for regular recycling in specific plastic or co- mingled recycling bins. Proper waste sorting is necessary for recycling to work as contamination with food scraps or other materials can contaminate the waste.
Landfill
Plastics that are not recycled often end up in landfills. Landfills pose significant environmental risks, through chemical leeching and emitting greenhouse gases.
Incineration
Some plastics are incinerated to reduce waste volume and generate electricity. Incineration can release harmful emissions, contributing to air pollution and climate change.
Biodegradation
Biodegradable plastics are designed to break down more quickly than traditional plastics, but require conditions, such as high temperatures and microbial activity, to degrade properly.
Embracing Plastic Alternatives to Promote Sustainability
The fight for plastic sustainability extends beyond only recycling. Plastic alternatives are gaining traction as a crucial element in the sustainability movement. Below are some promising options:
Biodegradable Materials
Materials such as Polylactic Acid (PLA), which is made from corn starch, and Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), produced by bacteria, are biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastics.
Compostable Alternatives
Compostable plastics are designed to break down in industrial composting facilities. They are often made from plant-based materials such as corn or sugarcane.
Reusable Bags and Containers
Investing in reusable alternatives to shopping bags, produce bags, and food containers significantly reduces single-use plastic consumption.
Metal and Glass Packaging
Durable and infinitely recyclable, metal and glass packaging offer a sustainable alternative for beverages and food products.
Achieving plastic sustainability requires a multi-pronged approach. By understanding different plastic materials, their disposal methods, and alternative options, we can make more informed decisions about how we use and dispose of plastics.
