12.4 Properties of Plastics and Their Implications for Disposal
The properties of plastics, while beneficial for their intended uses, create significant challenges for disposal. Therefore, plastics cause numerous environmental issues. The following properties of plastics pose implications for disposal.
1. Durability and Longevity
Plastics are made durable, which means that they can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions without breaking down quickly. However, because of the same durability plastics can last hundreds or even thousands of years in the environment. This makes them difficult to dispose off. After being disposed off, plastic can end up in landfill sites or nature for an extended period of time, resulting in long- term problems with waste management.
2. Lightweight Nature
Because plastics are lightweight, they can be easily packed and transported, but they can also be transported by wind or water. This makes it easier for them to spread over long distances, which can lead to extensive environmental pollution, particularly in marine environments.
3. Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of plastics can vary from one plastic material to another. Many plastic materials contain additives to enhance their properties, such as stabilisers, plasticizers, flame retardants, etc. These additives can leach materials into the environment, which can pose a risk to ecosystems and to human health.
4. Recyclability
Some plastics can be recycled. However, their contamination, sorting issues, and economic constraints often limit the amount that can be recycled. Many plastics cannot be recycled effectively, resulting in a large portion of them going to landfill or being burned.