RECYCLING: PLASTIC

Plastic is a synthetic polymeric material made from organic polymers, composed of carbon molecules and other elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and chlorine. Polymers can be natural (such as cellulose, proteins, and rubber) or synthetic (like plastics).

A synthetic polymer is a chemical compound produced artificially through controlled chemical reactions in laboratories or industrial facilities. Polymers are macromolecules formed by the repetition of smaller structural units called monomers. These monomeric units bond together in long and branched chains, thus forming polymers.

Synthetic polymers are widely used in modern industry due to their adjustable physical and chemical properties, allowing for a variety of applications across different sectors. Common examples of synthetic polymers include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyester (PES), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), among others.

These polymers can be molded, melted, extruded, laminated, or processed in other ways to produce a wide variety of products, ranging from packaging and household items to automotive parts, medical devices, and electronics. The ability to control the properties of synthetic polymers makes them extremely versatile and valuable in manufacturing a broad range of products.

Synthetic plastics are produced through a process called polymerization, in which smaller molecules called monomers combine to form long polymer chains. Monomers are typically derived from petrochemical raw materials, such as crude oil or natural gas, although they can also be obtained from renewable sources, such as corn starch or sugarcane.

The beginning of plastic usage can be traced back to the mid-19th century, with the development of plastic materials like celluloid and bakelite. However, it was not until the 20th century that large-scale plastic production became feasible, with the development of new polymers and manufacturing processes. Throughout the 20th century, plastics became an ubiquitous part of modern life, being used in a wide range of applications, from packaging and consumer products to construction, transportation, and electronics.

Plastic Examples:

• Polyethylene (PE): is one of the most common plastics and is used in a variety of products, including plastic bags, food packaging, soda bottles, and cleaning product containers. There are two main forms of polyethylene: high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

• Polypropylene (PP): is used in a wide range of applications, such as food packaging, liquid containers, carpets, household utensils, and automotive parts. It is known for its resistance to heat and moisture.

• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): is used in pipes, windows, cable coatings, flooring, and a variety of consumer products, such as food packaging, toys, and construction materials. It can be rigid or flexible, depending on the additives used in its formulation.

• Polystyrene (PS): is used in food packaging, disposable cups, tableware, egg trays, and thermal insulation. It can be expanded (EPS), like Styrofoam.

• Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): is widely used in soda, water, juice, and cooking oil bottles, as well as in textile fibers for clothing and carpets. It is known for its transparency, strength, and barrier properties.

• Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA): is a transparent plastic known by the trade name acrylic. It is used in windows, light fixtures, displays, and consumer products, such as cosmetic containers and optical lenses.

• Polyester (PES): a versatile plastic widely used in the textile industry to manufacture durable, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, as well as in flexible and rigid packaging for food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used in construction materials, plastic films, industrial fibers, and has properties suitable for various applications. Its recyclability also helps reduce the use of virgin raw materials and the environmental impact associated with plastic production.

Some plastics are more difficult or not easily recyclable due to their physical properties, chemical composition, or lack of adequate recycling infrastructure. The types of plastics that are less recyclable include:

• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC is difficult to recycle due to the presence of additives and contaminants that can impair the recycling process and the quality of recycled products.

• Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) or Styrofoam: EPS is a lightweight and porous plastic that can be difficult to recycle due to its low density and the challenge of compacting and transporting it to recycling facilities.

• Thin Plastic Films: Thin plastic films, such as plastic bags and food packaging, can be difficult to recycle due to their low density and contamination by food waste.

• Multilayer Plastics: Multilayer plastics, such as laminated food packaging, can be difficult to recycle due to the challenge of separating and recycling different materials, such as chips package.

Paying attention during shopping is crucial to reduce plastic waste and minimize environmental impact. Many products we purchase daily come packaged in disposable plastic, which significantly contributes to the amount of waste we generate. Opting for products with more sustainable packaging, such as glass, paper, or compostable materials, can help reduce our plastic footprint.

Furthermore, it's important to consider the type of products we are buying and their durability. Choosing fresh and local foods whenever possible can reduce the need for excessive packaging and prolong the shelf life of products. Additionally, buying in bulk and using reusable bags are also effective ways to cut down on plastic waste.

It's worth noting that most household waste, especially plastic, comes from the kitchen. Food packaging, plastic containers, and disposable utensils are some of the major culprits. Therefore, paying special attention to how we purchase, store, and dispose of items in the kitchen can make a big difference in the amount of waste we generate.

Reducing plastics in the kitchen can be achieved through various strategies. Here are some ways to minimize plastic usage in the kitchen:

• Use Reusable Containers: Instead of storing food in single-use plastic bags or containers, opt for durable and reusable glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers. These can be used repeatedly, reducing the need for disposable plastic.

• Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Choose products with minimal or no plastic packaging whenever possible. For example, buy fresh produce without plastic wrapping, choose bulk items instead of individually packaged ones, and opt for beverages sold in glass or aluminum containers rather than plastic bottles.
  

I wanna learn about single-use packaging

• Switch to Sustainable Alternatives: Replace plastic kitchen items with eco-friendly alternatives. For instance, use bamboo or stainless steel utensils instead of plastic ones, swap plastic straws for reusable stainless steel or silicone ones, and choose beeswax wraps or silicone food covers instead of plastic wrap.

• Shop in Bulk: Purchase dry goods like grains, pasta, and nuts from bulk bins using your reusable containers or bags. This reduces the amount of plastic packaging waste generated from pre-packaged products.

• Make Homemade Foods: Prepare homemade meals and snacks instead of buying pre-packaged, processed foods. This not only reduces plastic packaging waste but also allows you to control the ingredients and make healthier choices.

• Support Sustainable Brands: Choose products from companies committed to sustainability and reducing plastic usage. Look for brands that use eco-friendly packaging materials or offer refillable options for household items.

• Compost Organic Waste: Set up a compost bin for food scraps and organic waste. Composting reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and helps create nutrient-rich soil for gardening.

I want to Compost the Organic Waste

By adopting conscious shopping and consumption practices in the kitchen, we can significantly contribute to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment. Every small choice we make can have a positive impact on our planet, both in the short and long term.

To recycle at home or in work, you can follow these steps:

• Know local recycling guidelines: Familiarize yourself with what types of plastic are accepted for recycling in your area and what collection methods are available.

• Separate the plastic: Have separate containers or bags to collect recyclable plastics. Make sure to separate different types of plastic according to local guidelines.

• Wash and dry: Before recycling, wash and dry plastic containers to remove any residues and contaminants.

• Reduce and reuse: Whenever possible, reduce single-use plastic consumption and reuse plastic packaging and containers at home. This helps minimize the amount of plastic that needs to be recycled.

• Take to a collection point or recycling center: Take your recyclable plastics to a local collection point or recycling center, following the specific guidelines in your area. Many communities offer drop-off locations or curbside pickup services.

• Participate in recycling programs: Look for local recycling programs or community initiatives that may offer additional ways to recycle plastic and other materials.

By following these simple steps, you can contribute to reducing the amount of plastic going to landfills and help promote more sustainable waste management practices in your community.