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Plastics are used for a huge range of products, from disposable cutlery and plates to cling film and food packaging. While these items are convenient for many of us, their ubiquity has created a serious environmental problem. It takes years for plastic to break down, so its chemicals persist in the environment. During this time they can contaminate water, harming plants and animals, including humans. It can also affect people’s health, with the toxins in plastics linked to cancer, birth defects and endocrine disturbance.

Because of their light weight, plastics easily travel long distances, making them a major source of pollution around the globe. Often it ends up in landfills or the ocean, with its harmful chemicals leaching into the surrounding habitat. When they are incinerated, the toxic fumes can poison local communities, causing everything from skin rashes to breathing problems and even cancer. This is especially true in marginalized communities, as in the case of the residents of Louisiana’s “Cancer Alley” whose air is filled with carcinogenic chemicals from nearby plastics plants.

While most of us don’t live close to landfills or oceans, the plastic we use is still a problem. It’s a common sight to see littered beaches or the sea floor strewn with plastic fragments. Many of these plastics are mistaken for food by marine animals and can cause illness or death. It’s estimated that plastic waste kills millions of animals each year, from whales beached with stomachs full of garbage to a sea turtle with its intestines blocked by a single balloon fragment it had swallowed.

Plastics can also entangle or block an animal, which can lead to suffocation and other life-threatening conditions. Even if they are not entangled, they can cause internal damage or blockages with chemicals that leach out of them. Marine animals are particularly vulnerable to plastic pollution, as a recent study found that nearly half of the world’s whales have ingested some kind of plastic waste in their lifetimes.

In addition to being dangerous for wildlife, plastics are dangerous to the humans that produce and use them. The processing of fossil fuels into plastic resins and additives releases carcinogenic and other toxic chemicals into the air, affecting the health of workers and nearby communities. The resulting gases are also a major contributor to global warming.

Fortunately, there are many things we can do to help reduce plastic pollution. Buy local or organic foods and avoid packaged goods whenever possible. Use reusable tupperware, glass or stainless steel water bottles and jars instead of disposable plastic. Shop at the farmers market, bulk bins and grocery stores to limit your exposure to plastic packaging. Microwaves or hot temperatures accelerate the chemical leaching from some types of plastic, so be sure to cool foods before putting them in containers made of this material. Fatty or acidic foods absorb chemicals more readily, so consider storing them in glass or metal containers. If you do use plastics, look for those with the resin code #2 HDPE or #4 LDPE and avoid using tupperware in the microwave or any plastic that is not labeled as “microwave safe.”

Plastics are a very diverse material with unique properties and uses. They are used across many industries from foodservice to electronics to automotive. Plastics have a wide range of properties such as high strength and durability, but are also highly versatile and can be molded into various shapes and sizes. They are resistant to chemicals and can withstand a high range of temperatures. This combination of versatility and resistance to a wide range of conditions makes them an ideal material for a variety of applications.

The vast majority of plastics are organic polymers. They are made of long carbon chains called monomers that link together to form a continuous molecular structure. This allows them to be shaped and manipulated in ways that are not possible with other materials. The polymer’s properties are primarily determined by its atomic structure, with the backbone of the chain forming a large number of repeating units. Different side chains – which are hung off the main chain – are then added to modify the plastic’s characteristics and add specific functions.

There are six types of plastics that most people will be familiar with. PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) is one of the most common, and is found in drinks bottles, plastic tubing, plastic bags and other food containers. It is extremely durable and can be recycled many times over, making it a great choice for foodservice.

Another popular plastic is HDPE (high-density polyethylene). It is soft, tough, and can withstand a high level of stress. It is also known for having a low risk of leaching into foods and liquids, making it a good choice for milk jugs, yogurt containers and other products. It can also be recycled into pens, plastic lumber and picnic tables.

PP (polypropylene) is another commodity plastic that can be used in a variety of ways. It is very strong and can withstand a high temperature, which makes it perfect for kitchenware, car parts, thermal vests, and disposable diapers. It is also very fatigue-resistant, which means it will not easily deform over time, and this is why it is often used for living hinges on items like laptop covers.

There are a number of other high-performance plastics that have exceptional qualities, such as conductive plastics, biodegradable plastics and engineering plastics. These have a lower market share than the commodity plastics, but are very useful for a wide range of applications.

Plastic is a very versatile material that can be used to create countless products and tools. But not all types of plastic are the same; each is designed to possess specific qualities and meet the needs of its intended application. It’s important to know the difference between different types of plastic so you can choose the best one for your product.

Whether you’re an expert in plastic or just starting to learn about it, it’s helpful to have a clear understanding of the different types of plastic. Each type is made with a specific chemical structure that gives it unique physical properties. These characteristics are determined by the type of polymer used to make it.

Different plastics can be classified based on their molecular structures, the process they undergo to be created, their stability, their ability to resist certain chemicals and other factors that affect the performance of the plastic in use. Some kinds of plastic are even designed to be flame-retardant or able to absorb odors.

The most common kind of plastic is commodity plastic, which accounts for around 146 million tonnes of the world’s annual production. The group includes a number of popular plastics such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These are used for things like bottles, shopping bags, and disposable food containers. They are inexpensive and highly versatile, making them the most common commodity plastics. They also are known for their lack of biodegradability, which contributes to ocean pollution as they float on water or break down into microplastics that can harm marine life.

Other common types of plastic include polycarbonate, styrene butadiene (SBR), and vinyl. These are tough, long-lasting plastics that are found in things such as pipes, car parts, thermal vests, sunglasses, and compact discs. They are resistant to a number of chemicals, heat, and radiation. Some of them are able to absorb odors, while others are permeable and have good insulation qualities.

Another common kind of plastic is low-density polyethylene (LDPE). It’s a soft, flexible plastic that can be used for things like bags, sandwich and grocery bags, and bubble wrap. LDPE is a less expensive option that can be reused for food items, and it’s also considered one of the safer plastics as it leaches fewer toxins than other types of plastic.

Finally, there’s medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), a harder plastic that is often used for oil and gas pipes and industrial tubing. It’s also found in car and truck bumpers, garbage cans, and water piping. MDPE is strong and durable, but it doesn’t have the same flexibility as LDPE.

Many types of plastic are petroleum-based, which can contribute to resource depletion and dependence on fossil fuels. They also don’t break down easily and build up in landfills and oceans, creating environmental hazards for wildlife and humans. Plastic is also non-biodegradable, which means it can linger in the environment for centuries, polluting air, soil, and water. These dangers are why it’s so important to limit your consumption of disposable plastics and use recycled products whenever possible.

With plastic pollution becoming an increasingly hot topic, it’s no wonder that eco-conscious consumers are seeking alternatives to the ubiquitous plastic water bottle. Fortunately, there are a number of options that are both sustainable and stylish. From glass to plant-based cartons, we’ve got a roundup of some of the best products on the market for those who want to make a difference.

The most popular (and usually the cheapest) alternative to plastic bottles are reusable plastic ones. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and can be easily folded up to store in a glove compartment or desk drawer until they’re needed. The key with these is to make sure that you buy one that has not been manufactured using BPA (Bisphenol A). Look for the bottle recycling information on the bottom – 3 or 7 will mean it’s made with recycled plastic and is BPA free, while a plastic-free insignia means the same thing.

Glass bottles are another great option, although they are more expensive than plastic ones. However, they do have many benefits including that they’re BPA free and completely recyclable. Plus, they’re a lot more durable than plastic bottles and come in tons of designs to suit your style.

Ceramic bottles are another good option for those who value aesthetics over durability. These are also BPA free and can be reused over and over again, without compromising the quality of the water inside. They’re also dishwasher safe, and can be frozen or microwaved. Lastly, they can be a great option for those who are sensitive to the taste of plastic water bottles.

There are also a variety of branded water bottles that use a different type of plastic called PHA (Polyhydroxyalcanoate). These are a bit more pricey than traditional plastic, but they do offer the advantage that they can be fully composted once you’ve finished with them. In fact, the company Cove has worked with a waste handler in California to confirm that their bottles do break down in real life composting systems.

Plant-based bottles are a new addition to the sustainable options for bottled water, and are gaining popularity as a way of cutting down on the number of disposable plastic water bottles that end up in landfills or polluting our waters. These are produced from raw bio-sourced materials, so you can pop the whole bottle, cap included, into your garden or green waste bin to be broken down naturally.

Another alternative is boxed water, which has been growing in popularity, largely due to effective marketing. This is a water bottle that is actually a composite product, and contains paper, plastic, aluminium, and sometimes other materials as well. So, while it’s a step in the right direction, it is still not as environmentally friendly as some of the other products on this list. Hopefully, with further research and innovation, we’ll eventually be able to replace these hybrid bottles entirely with other sustainable and more environmentally friendly options.

Plastic is an extremely versatile substance that can be molded, pressed or extruded to form solid objects of varying shapes and sizes. Its nature allows it to take on a wide range of forms, making it suitable for use in everything from food containers to building materials and electronics. Plastics are produced from petroleum-derived polymers that are subjected to various processes involving heat and pressure in order to produce the desired results. Because of their unique properties, plastics are categorized in many different ways. Some of these categories are based on the physical properties of the plastic (eg, resistance to heat) while others are based on the manufacturing process used.

In addition, certain plastics can be categorized by their safety for humans and the environment. These are known as biodegradable and/or compostable plastics. Plastics that are categorized as such are marked with the number 7. This category is a catch-all for any other plastics that don’t fit into one of the six other categories and typically includes things like acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polycarbonates.

Polyethylene is the most widely used type of plastic in the world and it comes in three main types: High-Density, Low-Density and Linear Low-Density polyethylene (LDPE). LDPE is flexible but strong and can be found in many grocery bags as well as disposable utensils. It also has a high melting point and can resist fatigue, which makes it perfect for items like plastic wrap, frozen food packaging and squeezable bottles. It is also a very clean and safe plastic for human and animal contact.

High-Density Polyethylene is tough and has good moisture resistance. It is commonly found in milk cartons, detergent and cleaning product bottles, buckets and park benches. It is also used in construction materials like pipes and ducting. It is a highly durable plastic that can be recycled into new products.

PET is a clear and lightweight plastic with excellent moisture resistance. It is found in beverage bottles, plastic film and squeezable containers for foods such as margarine, ketchup and yogurt. It can be recycled into fibers for clothing, carpets and guitar strings. It also has an outstanding strength-to-weight ratio.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a hard, rigid plastic that is brittle and can withstand chemicals. It is very resistant to weathering and corrosion and doesn’t conduct electricity. PVC is dangerous for human and animal health because it leaches toxic chemicals that are known to cause cancer, birth defects and other medical problems.

Most plastics we throw away carelessly end up in the ocean, where they can harm marine life and are a significant contributor to pollution. These toxic chemicals leach into the soil and water, which in turn harms plant growth and reduces agricultural yields. The best way to help protect our planet and ourselves from these dangers is to limit or eliminate our use of plastic. Using less plastic is a healthier choice for everyone, but it is even more important to recycle the plastics we do use.

There are a number of different types of plastics in use today, and though many can seem similar, the differences between them can make a big difference in their suitability for different applications. From beverage bottles to utensils, it’s important to understand the different types of plastics to ensure you choose the right material for your products and operations.

Generally, plastics are man-made materials that can be molded into any shape, size and texture required for their intended purpose. Their unique chemical structure, which is comprised of long carbon chains, gives them the ability to bend and shape into a variety of forms. This flexibility, as well as their resistance to stains and heat, helps them to resist natural degradation processes and last for long periods of time compared to most other substances.

These properties are what allow the various plastics to be used in so many different types of applications, from water bottles and food containers to garden hoses and shatterproof windows. Among the most common and versatile plastics is polyethylene terephthalate, better known as PET, which can be found in everything from soda bottles and frozen meals to utensils and clothing fibers.

Another popular plastic is low-density polyethylene, or LDPE. While it is not as durable as HDPE, it can be molded into a wide variety of items. This includes the liners in some food cartons and ice cream containers, corrosion-resistant work surfaces and protective shells for computer hardware casings. It is also used to produce disposable diapers, sanitary products and garbage bags.

Polystyrene, or Styrofoam, is a common form of foam plastic that’s often used to insulate and protect products during shipping and storage. It’s also widely used to make cups, food containers and packaging tape. Unfortunately, Styrofoam is considered a dangerous plastic because it can leach harmful toxins such as styrene into foods and drinks.

The Society of the Plastics Industry has developed a Resin Identification Code system that divides plastics into 7 categories based on their physical properties. Group 1 encompasses those plastics that can be softened or bent by heating, while groups 2 to 6 are considered thermosetting, meaning they cannot be reshaped once they are moulded. The most interesting and high-performance plastics fall into the category of 7, which include nylon, aramids (best known as Kevlar and Nomex), polycarbonate and TPU.

Plastic is ubiquitous, used in everything from your cellphone to the kitchen sink. But it’s not all the same – different types of plastics have specific properties that make them better or worse for certain applications, and they can have long-lasting effects on the environment.

Most plastics are synthetic, made from petrochemicals or natural substances such as cellulose or starch. They are chemically treated to form long chains of molecules, called polymers, which are then molded into shapes via techniques such as injection molding, extrusion or blow molding. The specific chemical structure of a plastic determines its specific characteristics. Polymers are often customized to suit their intended uses by attaching various molecular groups, or additives, to the main backbone chain. These side chains, which can also contain oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur, influence the overall performance of a plastic.

Some plastics are classified by the process used to create them, or the physical state and morphology of the polymer. For example, thermoset plastics are set by the chemical bonding that takes place during synthesis. Other plastics are classified by their glass transition temperature (Tg) or tensile strength, and still others are classified by the chemical reactions they undergo during degradation.

When determining the best plastic for a given application, manufacturers take into account not only the material’s properties but its cost, ease of manufacture, safety and recyclability as well. In addition, a plastic’s durability and ability to withstand environmental stresses can have a significant impact on its cost.

Polyethylene (PE)

One of the most common types of plastics, PE is found in beverage containers, food storage bags and trash can liners. It is highly resistant to both heat and cold, making it an excellent choice for packaging items that are likely to be transported and stored outdoors. PE is not prone to leaching chemicals into foods or beverages, and it does not break down easily.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

Similar to PE, but tougher and more durable, this plastic is a favorite for laundry detergent containers, milk jugs, toilet paper rolls, cleaning products and water bottles. It is able to withstand high temperatures, and can be recycled again and again.

PS (Polystyrene)

Styrofoam is perhaps the most recognizable type of plastic, and it is used to make coffee cups, shipping and product packaging and egg cartons. It is inexpensive, insulates well and holds up to heat well, but it’s also dangerous because it can leak harmful toxins, especially when heated. It’s also not very recyclable.

Other Plastics

This category encompasses a variety of miscellaneous plastics that don’t fit into the other six codes, including polycarbonate and bisphenol A-based (BPA) plastics. These plastics are commonly used in baby-feeding bottles, electronics and automotive parts. Unfortunately, they are also known to leach into the oceans, where they are a significant source of microplastic pollution. To reduce your exposure to these plastics, look for reusable alternatives like glass or stainless steel.

We separate our paper and cardboard from cans and plastic, religiously rinse containers and take pride in how much we recycle each week. But how many of us realise that soft, scrunchable plastic wrappers can also be recycled? This material is used on everything from biscuit wrappers to chip packets, sandwich bags and plastic film packaging, according to War on Waste. It’s the stuff that goes around your ice cream, the plastic cover that comes with new appliances and even the plastic bag that you buy a roll of toilet paper in.

The problem is, most of us assume that it can’t be recycled because it isn’t rigid – like plastic bottles and jars. However, the War on Waste reports that this misconception is causing millions of dollars in lost revenue for recycling companies. This is because these plastics are often thrown in with rubbish and not taken to a recycle bin. It also clogs up recycling machinery.

Thankfully, some local councils and supermarkets have started to offer a dedicated plastic film recycling bin for these materials. But it’s still not widely available. Instead, we’re left to find drop-off points in Coles and Woolworths stores or visit the Redcycle website for a suburb-specific list of participating supermarkets.

As with most recycling, these plastics need to be clean and dry. So, before placing them in a recycle bin, give the material a light rinse and a tear where possible. And it is important to remove any food scraps, so that the material can be recycled without contamination of other materials.

Once the plastic has been collected it’s sent to a materials recovery facility, where it is separated into different polymers and processed. Some of the polymers are reused, while others can be turned into new plastic products or recycled into mulch. The goal is to move towards a circular economy, which means that the same materials are used over again rather than being thrown away.

In a perfect world, the KitKat prototype would be turned back into its own wrapper using advanced recycling techniques. But this is a vision for the future, as the infrastructure to support it doesn’t exist in Australia at present. In the meantime, we can continue to put pressure on our major supermarkets to introduce a soft plastic stewardship scheme.

Until then, we can reduce our plastic use by swapping it for reusable alternatives. Apartment Therapy suggests glass Mason jars and food containers, cloth or fabric bowl covers, wax wraps and silicone covers. These alternatives are cheaper than buying new packaging, and better for the environment. You can also try to do more baking at home, which will not only save you money, but is healthier for your waistline and the planet. It’s also worth trying to shop locally, which will reduce the number of miles your goods travel before ending up in your kitchen. This will cut down on air pollution and carbon emissions from transportation.

Plastic is used in everything from soup can liners and storage containers to baby bottles, toys, electronics, cosmetics and more. The pros: It’s inexpensive, lightweight and durable, making it easy to make and use many products that would otherwise be expensive or unavailable. The cons: It takes thousands of years to fully decompose, and it can leach toxic chemicals into food and water. Plus, it requires fossil fuels to produce.

Plastic pollution is killing sea animals, poisoning people and polluting the environment at an ever-increasing rate. In fact, we’re dumping more plastic into the oceans than fish by weight, according to recent studies. That’s because our trash doesn’t just float in the surface of the ocean — it sinks deep into the water and ends up accumulating on the bottoms of rivers, lakes and oceans, where it can harm animals and humans alike.

It’s also extremely difficult to get rid of. Since it’s non-biodegradable, it lingers in landfills, where it contributes to the degradation of soil and water quality. And even when it’s disposed of through recycling programs, it can still take a long time to break down. It can also contaminate the air, where it can cause respiratory problems and damage the immune system.

Moreover, it’s a huge burden on overburdened landfills around the world, which are filling up with tons of plastic waste that can’t be broken down, and contaminating natural resources like land and water. It can cost millions of dollars a year to clean up these sites, and the toxins released by the broken-down plastics have been linked to an array of health concerns, including cancer, hormone disruption, infertility and obesity.

While avoiding all plastics is nearly impossible, there are things we can do to reduce our exposure to harmful chemicals in plastics. In the lab, Wagner’s team tested more than 1,000 different plastic consumer products for a range of chemical hazards. They looked for endocrine disruptors, which are chemicals that mimic hormones and can interfere with healthy development, as well as other toxic compounds such as BPA, bisphenol S (BPS) and phthalates. About three-quarters of the plastics they tested displayed some form of toxicity.

This study is unique in that it tests all the chemicals found in plastics, rather than just looking for BPA or other specific compounds. And while the results weren’t exactly conclusive, they do provide an indication that we may need to take a more precautionary approach when it comes to testing plastics. In the meantime, we can try to limit our use of plastics and switch to glass, ceramic or stainless steel when possible. Just be sure to check for recycle codes on your plastics and only buy those made from recycled materials. And remember that life isn’t about perfection; it’s all about the little steps we can take to live greener.

Plastic is an insidious threat to our planet. It’s used in everything from water bottles and bags to toys and clothing, and it takes hundreds or even thousands of years to break down. In fact, the majority of plastic that has ever been produced still lingers in our environment, accumulating in garbage piles and bodies of water around the world.

Plastic pollution harms humans at every stage of its life cycle, including extraction and production, as well as use and disposal. The National Academy of Medicine has identified it as one of the top 10 threats to human health.

Despite the appearance of inertness, plastics contain many chemicals that can leach out over time and pose risks to human health. Most of these are potential carcinogens or endocrine disruptors. They may be released from plastics through abrasion, leaking containers and improperly incinerated waste. They can also be ingested or absorbed through the skin. These additives include bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, polyvinyl chloride and flame retardants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers, which have been linked to a host of problems from reproductive disorders to metabolic changes.

The chemicals in plastics can contaminate soil and water, poisoning wildlife, plants, fish and human beings. They can also interfere with the function of wetlands, oceans and other natural systems that support human life.

Plastics are a major source of marine debris and microplastics, which are small pieces of plastic that can be ingested by ocean creatures. These microscopic particles can cause a wide variety of problems, from reduced feeding and energy deficiencies to death. They can also interfere with zooplankton, the tiny animals at the base of the ocean food chain.

These tiny particles have also been found in human blood, lungs and tissues, colons, placentas, stool, breast milk and urine. They can disrupt the immune and endocrine systems, cause inflammation, damage organs and lead to cancer. The toxins they release may also contribute to the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

In addition to affecting humans and other animals, plastics are also dangerous for the workers who produce and dispose of them. Studies have shown that the toxins in plastics can make them sick, and that this impact is especially significant for lower-income people.

Workers in the plastic industry are exposed to numerous toxic chemicals, including BPA and other endocrine disruptors, that can cause harm to their reproductive systems and affect their metabolism and immune system. They are also at increased risk for traumatic injury, silicosis and lung disease. The communities in which plastics are produced and disposed of are also impacted, as many facilities are located in low-income countries and in poor or minority communities in high-income nations. These people are at a higher risk for asthma, childhood leukemia, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer. These conditions disproportionately affect people of color and women.