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Innovative processes and technologies for plastic waste valorization and implications for the green economy
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This review distinguishes between macroplastic valorization through recycling and the fundamentally different challenge posed by micro- and nanoplastics, which require capture, destruction, or permanent immobilization rather than reuse. Clarifying that microplastics cannot be recycled like bulk plastic is critical for developing policies that prevent the smallest and most hazardous plastic fragments from persisting in the environment.
Plastic waste accumulation poses a growing environmental challenge, with macroplastics contributing to resource inefficiency and micro- and nanoplastics emerging as persistent hazardous pollutants in aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric environments. This review critically examines contemporary plastic waste management and valorization technologies within a circular economy framework, with a clear distinction between macroplastic resource recovery and micro- and nanoplastic risk mitigation. While macroplastics can be sustainably valorized through mechanical recycling, chemical depolymerization, and thermochemical conversion, micro- and nanoplastics are internationally recognized as contaminants requiring prevention, capture, containment, and irreversible destruction or immobilization rather than reuse. Accordingly, the review evaluates capture technologies, terminal thermal and catalytic destruction, advanced oxidation and mineralization processes pathways for mitigating micro- and nanoplastic hazards. Emerging tools such as artificial intelligence and smart monitoring systems are also discussed in the context of improving plastic waste management efficiency and preventing secondary microplastic contamination. By clarifying the distinct treatment strategies required for different plastic size classes, this work provides a balanced and precautionary perspective to inform sustainable plastic management policies and future research directions.
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Challenges and opportunities in sustainable management of microplastics and nanoplastics in the environment
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This review examines the challenges and emerging strategies for sustainably managing micro- and nanoplastic pollution in the environment. Researchers assessed various approaches including advanced filtration, biodegradation, chemical recycling, and policy interventions aimed at reducing plastic waste. The study emphasizes that achieving meaningful progress will require combining technological solutions with stronger regulations and changes in how plastics are produced and consumed.
Recycling and Management of Microplastic Waste
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This review examines recycling and management strategies for plastic waste, describing the technical and economic challenges of reducing plastic pollution and the remediation approaches that have been attempted to address microplastic accumulation in the environment.
Micro- and Nano-Plastics Contaminants in the Environment: Sources, Fate, Toxicity, Detection, Remediation, and Sustainable Perspectives
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This review provides a broad overview of micro- and nanoplastic pollution, covering where these particles come from, how they spread through the environment, and the damage they cause to living things including humans. The authors also compare different methods for removing microplastics from the environment, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches. The paper calls for more research and global cooperation to develop better tools for measuring the health risks of plastic pollution.
A novel circular approach to analyze the challenges associated with micro-nano plastics and their sustainable remediation techniques.
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This review examines the environmental concerns raised by micro- and nanoplastics, including the surge in plastic waste generated during the COVID-19 pandemic, and evaluates sustainable remediation strategies. The authors propose a circular approach that considers the full lifecycle of plastics and integrates multiple treatment technologies to address the problem at scale.
A review of the pathways, limitations, and perspectives of plastic waste recycling
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This review compares conventional and emerging plastic recycling technologies—including mechanical recycling, pyrolysis, gasification, hydrocracking, and solvent-based methods—evaluating their technical performance, environmental impacts, and economic viability, while advocating for region-specific strategies and AI-assisted sorting to improve recycling outcomes globally.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.