Elimination of Polythene Pollution Challenges Through Recycling Approaches

Objective: Plastic waste management is now considered one of the most critical environmental concerns of the twenty-first century, with an estimated 12 billion tons of plastic waste expected to be in landfills by 2050. Only 19.5% of plastic is recycled as a result of current waste management procedures; the remaining 80.5% is either incinerated (25.5%) or landfilled (55%). The phrase “polythene pollution” refers to environmental contamination caused by polyethylene (PE) plastics and their byproducts, such as microplastics, which seriously harm the environment, disrupt the food chain, and necessitate comprehensive management strategies, including policy modifications, recycling, and biodegradation. Through their interactions with various soil characteristics, microplastics can affect agricultural output. Methods: The practice of dumping plastic debris into marine habitats puts large species at risk of extinction and can cause illnesses. Microplastics pose a threat to the human blood, liver, kidneys, lungs, and cardiovascular systems, directly impacting the growth and reproduction of both land and aquatic organisms. Due to the vast scope and complexity of the problem, traditional approaches to managing plastic waste—such as mechanical recycling and landfill disposal—are becoming increasingly less effective. The quality of plastic degrades after several recycling cycles, which is a significant limitation of conventional techniques. Result: To overcome these limitations, advanced recycling technologies are being developed. Chemical recycling, such as bioremediation, which transforms polluted polymers into monomers for future manufacturing, is a promising strategy aided by advanced sorting methods using AI and compatibilization procedures. The CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board)’s management of plastic trash under the Environment Protection Act of 1986 is marked by substantial transformational opportunities through the integration of the circular economy, regulatory strengthening, and technological innovation.