New Progress in Plastic Degradation and Conversion by Photocatalysis

Plastic, a versatile and affordable material, has become integral to modern society but poses significant environmental challenges due to its unsustainable lifecycle and improper disposal practices. Comprising various synthetic polymers, plastics are used in diverse applications from construction to packaging. However, the rapid increase in plastic production and inadequate waste management have resulted in widespread environmental pollution, contaminating soil, water, and air. The plastic pollution crisis is exacerbated by microplastics, which are pervasive in the environment and pose risks to ecosystems and human health. Addressing this crisis requires international cooperation and innovative approaches like recycling and upcycling. Recycling methods—primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary—each offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. Upcycling, focusing on converting plastic waste into valuable products, presents a promising solution. Photocatalysis, a novel method for plastic degradation and conversion, involves using light energy to generate reactive species that decompose plastics. By leveraging these advanced techniques, we can mitigate the environmental impact of plastics and move towards a more sustainable future. This chapter focuses on recent advancements in plastic degradation and conversion through photocatalysis.