The Intervention (2019-2023)

Yes, in one form or the other, while most types can be handled by primary or secondary recycling methods, the bulk can be dealt only either by tertiary methods whereby the plastic is broken down to extract oil, or through quaternary recycling which involves co-processing plastic waste as fuel.

But recycling is not an end by itself, focus should be on the 4 ‘Rs’ which have a much lower carbon footprint – ‘Refuse – Reduce – Reuse – Repurpose.’

Mismanaged plastic waste is waste that is not recycled, incinerated, or kept in sealed landfills. It includes materials burned in open pits, dumped into seas or open waters, ordisposed of in unsanitary landfills and dumpsites.

Unlike other materials, plastic does not biodegrade. It can take up to 1,000 years to break down, so when it is discarded, it builds up in the environment until it reaches a crisis point. This pollution chokes marine wildlife, damages soil and poisons groundwater, and can cause serious health impacts.

While the plastic pollution crisis needs systemic reform, individual choices do make a difference. Such as shifting behaviour to avoid single-use plastic products whenever possible. If plastic products are unavoidable, they should be reused or repurposed until they can no longer be used – at which point they should be recycled or disposed of properly. Bring bags to the grocery store, and if possible, striving to purchase locally sourced and seasonal food options that require less plastic packaging and transport.