Reducing plastic waste in scientific protocols by 65%-practical steps for sustainable research.

Plastics are predominant in numerous sectors like packaging, agriculture, hardware, electronics, and many others. Annual plastic demand has been rapidly growing in the last few decades because of the increasing dependency on plastics. As a consequence, massive amounts of plastic waste are being generated every year. These plastic wastes are non-biodegradable, and hence their disposal poses a serious threat to the ecosystem and causes significant environmental problems such as endangering the safety of marine life, wildlife, air, water, and soil, etc. A large portion of plastic waste ends up in landfills, and only a small fraction is recycled. The continuous dependence on landfills as the main disposal method for plastic waste is costly and ineffective. Common solutions to plastic waste management are incineration and recycling; however, incineration emits harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases that contribute to ozone layer depletion and global warming; moreover, recycling is expensive and inefficient. As an alternative to recycling and incineration, the pyrolysis process can convert plastic wastes into more valuable fuel products. Pyrolysis is a thermal process that converts raw material into pyrolysis liquid, solid wax, and non-condensable gases in the absence of oxygen. This process is attractive because it is economical and energy-efficient, and it can be used to convert various types of plastic waste into valuable products. In recent years, there have been significant developments in pyrolysis applications in liquid fuel production from plastic wastes. This work reviews recent advances in and challenges for the pyrolysis process for converting plastic wastes into a valuable alternative fuel, focusing on studies of advanced pyrolysis processes published over the last five years. The paper also highlights the numerical modeling of pyrolysis of plastic wastes and the potential impact of pyrolysis on the future of sustainable waste-management practices of plastics.

Research methodology Information from secondary sources was used to develop this case study. The sources of the data included the organization’s website, yearly reports, news releases, reports that have been published and documents that are accessible online. Case overview/synopsis As of 2023, Kenya generated around 0.5–1.3 million tons of plastic waste per year, of which only 8% was recycled. The remaining waste was either dumped into landfills, burned or released back into the environment. In addition to the plastic problem, a deforestation crisis was looming large in the country. Despite the country’s efforts to improve recycling, banning the use of single-use plastic to reduce plastic pollution, plastic waste continued to be a major issue. Growing up in the Kaptembwa slums of rural Kenya, Lorna saw the adverse impact that plastic waste had on the local ecosystem. Also, she was perturbed by the widespread cutting down of trees for construction of buildings, etc., which had resulted in deforestation. Lorna’s concern for the environment and her desire to address these issues motivated her to found EcoPost, a business that promoted a circular economy by gathering and recycling plastic waste. With the common goal of enhancing circularity, EcoPost and Austria-based chemical company Borealis collaborated to stop waste from seeping into the environment and to make a positive socioeconomic and environmental impact. The funding from Borealis would help EcoPost in increasing its capabilities, providing training and recruiting more waste collectors. The funds were also supposed to help formalize the work of the waste pickers (mostly youth and women from marginalized communities) by financing the entrepreneurial start-up kits. Lorna aimed to create a business model that would not only solve the plastic waste problem but would also contribute to the social and economic development of local communities. Amidst these gigantic problems of plastic waste and deforestation that Kenya was facing, how will Lorna achieve her ambitious goal of reducing plastic waste and save trees? How will EcoPost pave the way to a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future? Complexity academic level This case is intended for use in MBA, post-graduate/executive level programs as part of entrepreneurship and sustainability courses.

Assessing threats, regulations, and strategies to abate plastic pollution in LAC beaches during COVID-19 pandemic

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of plastic waste accumulation in both terrestrial and aquatic environments in Can Tho city, Vietnam, a nation with high per capita plastic consumption and significant plastic waste discharge. Focusing on urban residential areas, riverside communities, suburbs, and rural regions, the research investigates the extent and impact of plastic waste in these diverse settings. Additionally, the study examines the accumulation of plastics at barriers, under bridges, and in the Hau River, identifying the predominance of single-use plastics and their environmental implications. The key findings indicate that the plastic waste leakage at land-based-source emission sites is substantial, with waste persisting for extended periods without effective clean-up. The study reveals a significant accumulation of plastics at barriers and bridge bases in aquatic environments, including along the river. The pollution level was observed to be more influenced by the quantity of waste rather than its mass per unit area, emphasizing the need for targeted waste reduction strategies. The study also identifies seven types of plastic, each associated with different sources of accumulation or settlement. This variety presents both challenges and opportunities for waste management and recycling. Significantly, the research underscores the potential of repurposing plastic waste into recycled products, aligning with the circular economy model. This approach not only extends the lifecycle of plastic products but also contributes to reducing plastic waste generation and minimizing the environmental impact. Overall, the findings highlight the urgent need for improved waste management practices in Vietnam, particularly in urban and riverside areas, and advocate for innovative recycling solutions to mitigate the environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution.

Reducing plastic waste is an urgent environmental issue and efforts are needed to educate students of SMA 1 Seram Barat about environmentally friendly waste management. This study aims to design an effective activity method to educate students of SMA 1 Seram Barat about the importance of reducing plastic waste. The proposed activity methods include counseling and presentations, group discussions, and field visits. Counseling and presentations will provide students with an initial understanding of plastic waste and its impact on the environment. Group discussions will provide an opportunity for students to share knowledge and ideas about plastic waste reduction. Field visits will provide first-hand experience about the process of processing plastic waste into Paving Blocks. The environmental awareness campaign will involve students in disseminating information about plastic waste reduction in schools and surrounding communities. Collaboration with external parties will provide broader insights into plastic waste reduction. The use of eco-friendly alternatives will encourage students to adopt lifestyle changes that reduce the use of single-use plastics. It is hoped that the implementation of this activity method will help students of SMA 1 Seram Barat to understand the importance of reducing plastic waste and have practical skills in environmentally friendly waste management. Through collaboration with external parties and involving the community, it is hoped that this plastic waste reduction effort can achieve a wider and sustainable impact.

The Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata / KKN) of Pandanaran University Semarang is a form of dedication to the community aimed at providing tangible contributions to solving environmental problems. One of the programs implemented was the utilization of single-use plastic gallon waste into decorative plant pots in Pakintelan Village, Gunungpati District, Semarang City. This initiative was driven by the increasing volume of inorganic plastic waste that is difficult to decompose naturally, thus requiring innovative recycling approaches. The program was conducted from February 11–18, 2024, involving both students and local residents. The implementation stages included site surveys, collection of single-use plastic gallons, cleaning, cutting, and painting as the final stage of pot-making. The results indicated strong community participation and the ability to transform plastic gallon waste into attractive, functional, and marketable plant pots. Beyond reducing environmental pollution, the activity also created opportunities for creative economy development based on waste utilization. This program is expected to serve as an inspiration and model for sustainable community empowerment in managing plastic waste effectively.

<p>This study reports on the amount of plastic wastes in five river mouths discharging to Manila Bay, a natural harbor which drains approximately 17,000 km<sup>3</sup> of watershed area. Of the 17 rivers discharging to the Bay, five rivers which run through the densely populated and highly urbanized Metropolitan Manila are included in the study namely, Pasig, Cañas, Tullahan, Meycauyan and Parañaque. A Waste Analysis and Characterization Study (WACS) was conducted to investigate the composition of the wastes that were on the river banks. Samples were taken from the wastes that were found lying on the banks. The wastes collected in each study site varied from each other, although plastic wastes and yard wastes were gathered from all areas. Based on their % wet weight, plastics alone comprised 28% of wastes in Cañas, 46% of wastes in Meycauayan, 42% of wastes in Parañaque, 37% of wastes in Pasig and 27% of wastes in Tullahan. The disposed plastics collected were also characterized and categorized into different types: hard plastic (PP, HDPE), film plastic (PP, PE), foam (PS, PUR) and other type (PVC, PET). In Cañas River, film plastics (79%) were the most ubiquitous type of plastic waste which primarily consist of different sachets of household products and single-use plastic bags. Few hard plastics and other types of plastic such as PVC and PET were collected. Meycauayan River and Parañaque River had almost the same plastic type distribution wherein the most dominant plastic type were hard plastics. These hard plastics collected were mostly composed of bottles of detergents and toiletries. Meycauayan River has relatively fewer establishments near its river mouth, indicating that the sources of the accumulated plastic wastes came from the mid and upstream of the river where the urbanized and industrialized areas were located. Furthermore, even though hard plastics represented 38% of wastes in Paranaque, numerous plastic straw ropes were collected as fishermen use these straws to tie up their boats to the docking area. Significant amount of foams  and PET bottles were also amassed in these rivers. Plastic wastes from the Pasig River were mostly comprised of both film plastics (39%) and hard plastics (30%). The plastic wastes taken were all household products directly dumped by the those residing by the Pasig River mouth. Notable quantity of foams and other types of plastic were fetched from the sampling area. Tullahan River has abundant amount of film plastics (35%) and foams (33%) in its river mouth. Some of these plastic wastes are stuck to the rafts tied up along the bank of the river. Sachets of household products were dominantly present. Few hard plastics and other type of plastic were extracted from the site. Substantial amount of plastic wastes in each of the river mouths signifies poor waste management infrastructure, lack of materials recovery facilities, and lack of discipline of people as these plastics are found to be directly dumped into the water bodies.  </p>

Sustainable Forest Management refers to the management and utilization of forests and their biodiversity, productivity, reproducibility potential and prospective in the relevant environment, both now and in the future in a manner that does not harm economic and social outputs at different levels, which creates socially equitable, environmentally sound and economically viable outcomes. Proper and sustainable plastic waste management is now seen as a necessity for sustainable forest use, leading to the setting of ambitious targets for recyclability as well as incorporating recycled plastics into products. For the scientific and forest management community, the challenges hindering efforts to mitigate plastic pollution are identified to inform the recommendations presented and emphasize the urgency of finding sustainable solutions to plastic pollution that do not only address the existing issues faced by forests and environments but also future threats presented by plastic pollution. Another way that plastic impact wildlife and forests is by releasing additives such as phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA) into food chains which disrupts hormone system of vertebrates and invertebrates because they release substances that generate hormone imbalances. Plastic wastes manage to enter into and harm numerous biological functions of animals. In this article concept of sustainable forest practices and addressing the impact of plastic waste on the forests and environment before and during the COVID-19 epidemic are highlighted along with current sources of plastic wastes which manage to enter the environment. With sustainable forestry practices, plastic waste can be reduced, which has a positive impact on the ecosystem.

Plastic waste has emerged as a formidable environmental challenge globally, prompting nations to reassess and enhance their waste management strategies. This study encapsulates a comprehensive review focusing on the effectiveness of plastic waste management in the United States. The review explores the multifaceted dimensions of plastic waste management, encompassing legislative frameworks, recycling initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and the impact of technological advancements. It delves into the intricate web of challenges posed by plastic pollution and evaluates the strategies employed by the USA to mitigate these environmental threats. Key facets of the review include an analysis of federal and state-level regulations governing plastic waste, with a keen eye on the evolution of policies over time. The effectiveness of recycling programs and infrastructure, their scope, and the challenges hindering optimal performance are scrutinized. Additionally, the review assesses the role of extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs and the integration of innovative technologies in enhancing plastic waste management practices. Beyond regulatory measures, the review delves into the public's role in plastic waste management, considering the efficacy of awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives. The societal shift toward sustainable practices and the influence of consumer behavior on plastic consumption and disposal are also examined. Furthermore, the review scrutinizes the challenges associated with plastic waste exports and the potential global implications of the USA's plastic waste management practices. It considers the broader environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution, emphasizing the need for holistic and sustainable solutions. In synthesizing these diverse aspects, the review aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in the USA's approach to plastic waste management. By identifying areas of improvement and acknowledging successful interventions, the review contributes valuable insights to the ongoing global discourse on mitigating the environmental impact of plastic waste.

This study aims to design a community-based plastic waste management model specifically for Bangun Village, Mojokerto. Using a qualitative approach through a detailed case study, we gathered rich data from observations, interviews, and document reviews. Our findings reveal that the plastic waste management situation in Bangun Village is fraught with significant social, economic, and environmental challenges. These include inadequate waste segregation, limited recycling facilities, and a general lack of community awareness and participation. The proposed model seeks to address these issues by implementing several key components: community-based plastic waste collection and processing, educational programs to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices, partnerships with external stakeholders such as local government bodies, NGOs, and private sector entities, and institutional restructuring to support and sustain these initiatives. Central to this model is the belief that community education and awareness are crucial foundations for fostering sustainable behavior. By actively involving the community in the waste management process, the model not only aims to mitigate the plastic waste problem but also seeks to provide economic and social benefits to the residents of Bangun Village. This includes creating job opportunities, improving public health, and enhancing the overall quality of life. The strength of this model lies in its ability to integrate community participation, policy support, and external partnerships, making it a robust and effective solution for sustainable plastic waste management. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive approach, the model aims to create a sustainable and resilient community that can effectively tackle the plastic waste challenge while reaping economic and social benefits. In conclusion, the community-based plastic waste management model proposed for Bangun Village has the potential to bring about significant positive changes in the way plastic waste is managed. Through this model, we hope to empower the community to contribute to solving the plastic waste problem while also benefiting economically and socially.

Chapter 19 - Reducing, recycling, and fundamentally rethinking microplastics

Ambon has problems with plastic pollution, both in the rivers and the bay. Due to faults in the waste system, 60 tons of waste is not collected in Kota Ambon. This waste ends up in illegal landfills, the waste is burned or thrown in the water. The plastic pollution in the bay contributes to the global problem of plastic soup. Research was conducted based on question; which recommendations can be given to collect the floating plastics in the rivers around Ambon Market by using the litter traps. To answer the main question, sub-questions are drafted covering the sources of pollution, possible locations, and the possibilities for a trap. The research is conducted using different methods that is interview to local experts, observation, literature research and talks to residents. Most of the plastic found are single-use plastics, like water and food packaging materials. The most feasible location for a litter trap is the end of Batu Merah River due to the abundance of plastic, the depth, and the nearby presence of Speed Sampah. The concept litter trap showed that this device could be effective at Batu Merah River. Further research is needed to create a more definitive solution for plastic pollution. Several aspects must be taken into account, such as the circumstances like the rainy season, sedimentation, current, and tide can impact the working of the litter trap and should be considered during the designing process.

<p><b>Plastic pollution is and continues to be a growing problem in today’s world. The consequences of its abundance and combination of take, make, and waste practices linger within our environment and landfills, resulting in negative social, economic, and environmental impacts. Due to China’s new waste ban, New Zealand (NZ) is no longer able to export plastic waste overseas. With the current inadequate waste management infrastructure and without recycling restrictions on different types of plastics, this waste stream becomes complex and problematic.</b></p> <p>A significant amount of this waste originates from single-use and non-recyclable plastics, which has only increased over time with the emergence of consumer convenience packaging. Thus, in addition to new infrastructure and systems, a cultural shift and greater awareness is needed to address the plastic waste issue.</p> <p>There are existing industry leaders who have successfully closed the loop for recycling certain plastic waste streams in NZ. However, field research has revealed that even within such closed looped systems, some residual non-recyclable waste still remains. This research proposes to add new value to this low value and problematic waste in the form of highly crafted artefacts.</p> <p>This opportunity is explored with a ‘Research through Design’ methodology focusing on 3D printing and digital craft. This includes a practice-based research approach that includes material experimentation and reflective practice to inform the creation of design outputs. The investigation explores the upcycling of bottle caps and sticker labels as difficult and low value waste streams. Outputs include 3D printed artefacts for a variety of applications, including lighting, furniture and craft objects. These design outputs aim to demonstrate how undervalued and neglected materials can be reincarnated in a more durable form, to raise awareness and elicit responses regarding throwaway culture and the global waste problem.</p>

The single-use waste plastics is one of the major concerns globally to society as well as to the scientific community. It is even more so at the present-day due to the rapid production of plastic and polymeric materials to meet the societal demand. The consumers’ demand and dependency on plastic is huge due to its versatility, low production cost, light weight and numerous applications of it. With increasing the demand, waste plastic generation is also high that leads to creation of environmental and health problems like vomiting, anemia, headache, kidney, liver damage, cancer, shortened lifespan and chronic damage to nervous system. Therefore, new and modern techniques such as pyrolysis has been developed to reduce the environmental pollution and cutting of carbon tracers of plastic products by reducing the emissions of oxides of carbon like monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) as compared to other technologies. This review paper mainly focused on the plastic waste generation scenario in India and minimization technique to produce fuels. Additionally, other new technologies to handle waste plastic along with energy generation (in the form of oil and gas production) with the specific process parameters (reaction time, reactor type, catalyst type and reaction temperature) to obtain the maximum yield are also discussed. The technoeconomic analysis and energy participation of waste plastic oil has also been highlighted to enhance the utilization of pyrolysis products and their futuristic application as an automotive fuel. An attempt was also made to analyze the emissions reduction as well as promotion of circular economy.

Plastics production (i.e. 450 million tons per annum globally), use and disposal (i.e. 300 million tons per annum globally) are one of the top environmental concerns and global waste management impediments. Over the past decades, researchers’ voices have repeatedly been raised for acting and saving inland as well as aquatic ecosystems being harmed by the increasing plastic pollution. Micro plastics have also been reported to be in tap water, bottled drinks and in fish we eat. Consequently, conventions have been signed, laws and regulations enforced (banning, increased taxation, etc.) in various regions and countries across the globe for lessening plastics harm on the environment. In this struggle, Rwanda looks to be in front line compared to other regional and continental countries; hence resulted in calling its capital Kigali by many, “the African cleanest city”. In fact, more than a decade ago Rwanda has banned non- biodegradable plastic bags and this initiative was recently followed by the outlawing of single-use plastic items as one of long-term strategies of becoming a green and climateresilient nation. The ban aimed at minimizing dangers of plastic pollution to humans, farm animals, aquatic lives and the environment. Rwanda’s current strong institutional, political will, legal frameworks and active citizens in terms of eliminating plastic pollution foster socio-economic development and environmental protection; hence benefiting from ecosystem services. Active participation of citizens in community works (Umuganda in mother tongue; one of home-grown solutions of mutual collaboration to achieve specific goals), meticulous plastic related laws enforcement (strong political will) and public awareness campaigns (i.e. environmental clubs in schools, green education, etc.) are 3 pillars which are enabling Rwanda to the successful beating of plastic pollution. The national moto for sustainable environmental management is: “whatever cannot be recycled or reused must not be produced”. Thus, the present paper reviews the state of environmental impacts of plastics, approaches adopted for alleviating the harm from plastics in Rwanda and their implementation procedures which gave credits to the country on global environmental protection scene so that lessons from these practices can be benchmarked or become the starting point to other countries with similar ambitions and goals. The current solid waste management (i.e mainly plastics) and challenges are also discussed in order to be addressed by the authority in charge. Data and literature were retrieved from peer-reviewed journal articles, websites, books, reports, and dissertations, local and international online newspapers. Despite significant efforts made towards plastic pollution alleviation in Rwanda, to the best of our knowledge no scientific research has been so far conducted to prove how plastic wastes contributed over the past years to flooding, prevented crops from growing, to what extent plastic litters have restrained rainwater from penetrating various soil types and other forms of plastic pollution. Such studies are paramount for scientifically justify the ban initiatives in the country. This review resulted into encyclopedia that other researchers can build on, specifically to those wishing to learn from plastic banning procedures followed in Rwanda.