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The plastic pollution problem, definitions, scope and alternatives
Summary
This book chapter provides a broad overview of plastic pollution, explaining the types and sizes of plastic fragments (micro, nano, primary, secondary) and their presence across marine, terrestrial, and atmospheric environments. It reviews scientific evidence of plastic pollution's effects on ecosystems and human health, and critically evaluates proposed solutions such as improved waste management, recycling, and biodegradable plastics, arguing that none is sufficient on its own. The chapter is a useful introduction for general audiences and policymakers trying to understand the full scope of the plastic pollution crisis.
This chapter introduces and explains various terms and concepts associated with plastic and plastic pollution. It explains the basic process of making plastic, and lists some of the main types of plastic polymers that are used in our society today. One of the main aims of the chapter is to highlight the importance of defining the scope of problem of plastic pollution correctly. The chapter presents many dimensions of the plastic pollution, such as primary and secondary microplastics and nanoplastics, marine, terrestrial and atmospheric plastic pollution, illustrating the interconnected and multifaceted nature of the problem. It also summarises the recent research on the extent and the effects of the plastic pollution on our planet and on our health, highlighting the rapid advancement in our scientific understanding of the problem and the lag between the science and regulation. The chapter demonstrates that focusing on just one of the aspects/dimensions of the plastic problem will not be effective, unless we keep the whole picture in our mind and attempt to tackle the root of the problem, which is our unsustainable reliance and consumption of everything plastic. Moreover, the chapter highlights the most popular proposed solutions to the problem, such the improvements in solid waste management systems around the world, recycling and degradable plastics and analyses while none of them presents a perfect or effective solution on its own.
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