What really happens to the plastic you throw away - Emma Bryce

Introduction

This tutorial explores the journey of plastic after it is thrown away, as presented by Emma Bryce in her TED-Ed lesson. Understanding what happens to plastic waste is crucial for making informed decisions about recycling and reducing plastic pollution. This guide will break down the life cycles of different plastic bottles, highlighting the environmental impacts and best practices for managing plastic waste.

Step 1: Recognizing the Types of Plastics

Before disposing of plastic, it's important to identify the different types. Plastics are categorized by their resin identification codes, which range from 1 to 7. Each type has different properties and recycling processes.

• Type 1 (PETE): Commonly used for soft drink and water bottles. It's recyclable.
• Type 2 (HDPE): Used for milk jugs and detergent bottles. It's also recyclable.
• Type 3 (PVC): Found in pipes and shower curtains. Not widely recycled.
• Type 4 (LDPE): Used for grocery bags. Rarely recycled.
• Type 5 (PP): Found in yogurt containers. Some recycling programs accept it.
• Type 6 (PS): Used for disposable coffee cups and food containers. Difficult to recycle.
• Type 7 (Other): Includes various other plastics. Recycling varies significantly.

Step 2: Understanding the Disposal Methods

When plastic is thrown away, it typically follows one of several paths:

1. Landfill: Most plastics end up in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose. This process releases harmful substances into the environment.
2. Incineration: Some plastics are burned to reduce volume. While this can generate energy, it also releases toxic emissions.
3. Recycling: If properly sorted, some plastics can be recycled into new products. However, the recycling rate is low, and not all plastics are accepted in recycling programs.

Practical Advice

• Always check local recycling guidelines to know what types of plastics are accepted.
• Reduce your use of single-use plastics to minimize waste.

Step 3: The Environmental Impact of Plastic Waste

Plastic waste has significant effects on the environment:

• Marine Pollution: Plastics often end up in oceans, harming marine life and ecosystems.
• Wildlife Risks: Animals can ingest plastic or become entangled, leading to injury or death.
• Microplastics: Over time, larger plastics break down into microplastics, which can enter the food chain and affect human health.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not assume all plastics are recyclable; verify local rules.
• Avoid littering, as littered plastic contributes to environmental pollution.

Step 4: Making Sustainable Choices

To mitigate the impact of plastic waste, consider these sustainable practices:

• Reduce: Limit your use of plastic products by opting for reusable items.
• Reuse: Find creative ways to repurpose plastic containers instead of discarding them.
• Recycle: Participate actively in recycling programs and educate others about the importance of recycling.

Real-World Applications

• Use reusable bags, bottles, and containers to minimize single-use plastic consumption.
• Support companies that prioritize sustainable packaging and practices.

Conclusion

Understanding the life cycle of plastic and its environmental impact is essential for making responsible choices. By recognizing the types of plastics, understanding disposal methods, and adopting sustainable practices, we can significantly reduce plastic waste and its harmful effects on our planet. Start by evaluating your plastic usage today and consider how you can make a positive change.