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The proliferation of plastics
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This introductory book chapter traces the development of modern polymers and the growth of global plastics production during the 20th century, examining the social and industrial factors that shaped humanity's relationship with plastics. It establishes foundational definitions for microplastic size categories, morphologies, and pollution sources that inform the broader text.
In this first chapter, we will set out the key factors which underpin our existing understanding of the proliferation of microplastics and the dependent relationship between microplastic pollution and the wider plastics industry. We will begin by examining the development and characteristics of modern polymers and the changes in global production during the 20th century, emphasising the social factors which have shaped our relationship with plastics. Attention will be paid to the sources of plastic litter and the categorisation of size categories and morphologies, introducing the core definitions that will be used throughout the text.
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