Effective Waste Management Strategies and Circularity of Plastics

This chapter provides a examination of the circularity principles of plastics and their corresponding environmental impacts. It begins by exploring the importance of moisture control in plastic products and the negative effects that can arise from exposure to moisture. Additionally, it investigates the role of ash and carbon content in plastics and how they can be managed to minimize their impact on the environment. The chapter then proceeds to investigate the end-of-life options for plastics, such as landfill, incineration, and composting. Each option is evaluated in terms of its methodology and challenges. The chapter goes on to explore various waste recycling and upcycling technologies and their benefits. Additionally, the chapter covers emerging technologies such as microwave-assisted and plasma-assisted conversion, which offer new and innovative ways to recycle and upcycle plastics. The social and governance aspects of plastic waste are also examined, including the concept of extended producer responsibility (EPR) and its potential to motivate manufacturers to design more sustainable products that are easier to recycle. Relevant policies and schemes are also discussed, including the role of government regulation in promoting sustainable waste management practices.