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Plastic Pollution

Challenges and Green Solutions

  • 2024
  • Buch
Herausgegeben von
Malti Goel
Neha G. Tripathi
Verlag
Springer Nature Singapore
Enthalten in
Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik"
Springer Professional "Technik"
insite
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Über dieses Buch

Dieses Buch bietet ein umfassendes Verständnis der Herausforderungen beim Umgang mit Plastikmüll und zeigt innovative Lösungen auf, die die negativen Auswirkungen der Plastikverschmutzung auf die Umwelt abmildern können. Dieses zeitgemäße Buch bringt eine multidisziplinäre Expertengruppe zusammen, um das Ausmaß und die Komplexität des Problems der Kunststoffverschmutzung zu skizzieren und gleichzeitig innovative und integrative Lösungen voranzutreiben. Das Buch umfasst Perspektiven aus Politik, Industrie, Interessenvertretung, Technologie und Wissenschaft und bietet ein umfassendes Verständnis der Quellen, Auswirkungen und Managementansätze von Plastikmüll. Entscheidungsträger aus Politik, Kommunen, Industrie, Unternehmern, Forschern, Studenten, Fürsprechern und informierten Bürgern, die versuchen, Fortschritte bei der nachhaltigen Bewirtschaftung von Kunststoffabfällen voranzutreiben, werden in diesem Buch entscheidende Erkenntnisse und inspirierende Modelle finden.
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Inhaltsverzeichnis

Frontmatter

Plastic Pollution Challenge

Frontmatter
Understanding Plastic Pollution
Abstract
Plastic, which is a by-product of the fractional distillation of crude oil, is a polymeric material made of chemically interlinked ‘monomers’. Monomers are single molecules mainly composed of carbon and hydrogen. Other elements like oxygen, chlorine, fluorine, nitrogen, silicon, phosphorus, and sulfur are present depending on the plastic composition. Undoubtedly, plastics have emerged as versatile, moldable, durable, cost-effective, and lightweight materials. There is a saving in energy when plastic is used in place of metals, and the CO2 footprints become smaller. On the other hand, plastics have a long life of a few hundred years. The plastic waste has critical disposal issues, including collection in landfills, which causes methane emissions. Almost 99% of plastics are made from fossil fuels, and greenhouse gas emissions in the supply chain and during the incineration of waste have become significant threats to the environment. The plastic that gets dumped as marine debris is a major human health hazard. The world aquatic environment could have more than 80 MT of plastic debris by 2030 if no intervention is made (Borrelle et al. in Science 369:1515–1518, 2020). Efforts to mitigate plastic pollution include the recycling of waste, the management of waste on land and in the oceans, and the production of fossil fuel-free alternate sustainable materials. This chapter describes the discovery, development, and causes of plastic pollution, along with possible technological and planned remedies. Policy measures adopted in India are included.
Malti Goel
The Global Plastic Pollution Crisis—How Norway Deals with the Challenge
Abstract
Researchers all over the world are engaged in the global plastic crisis, and hundreds of reports have been written on topics like microplastics, chemicals in plastics, recycling, single-use plastics, extended producer responsibility, the informal sector, circular economy, etc. This chapter highlights a selection of recently published articles written by Norwegian researchers and Norway’s partner organisations in India. The publications show that there are ways to deal with the global plastic pollution crisis, but there is no time for procrastination. Norway has a history of taking initiatives to end plastic pollution. The Norwegian Government has strategies and policies that cover both plastics and circular economy. The strategies include local, regional and global challenges. Norway’s commitment in the global work against marine pollution and the cooperation with India on the same topic are important for the work towards an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, and for the follow-up after the agreement is concluded. Combating plastic pollution and marine litter is a key priority of both Norway and India. Since 2019, several projects have been started under the India–Norway Marine Pollution Initiative, focusing on enhancing the circular economy, waste management, co-processing of plastic waste in coastal areas, testing and monitoring of chemical and plastic wastes in rivers and encouraging voluntary citizen participation in beach clean-up.
Beate Kværnes Langset
Plastics and Human’s Health
Abstract
Plastics have transformed everyday human life and health. Their usage is increasing and annual production is exceeding about million tonnes every year. In this chapter, we discuss in detail about adverse effects of plastics on human health and environment. We explore plastic and its lifecycle and the numerous exposure routes through which human health is impacted at each stage by ingestion, inhalation, contact and toxic chemicals, additives and by-products. Plastics are linked with severe adverse health outcomes such as cancers, birth defects, impaired immunity, endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive effects, lung disease and gastrointestinal disorders. Plastic production has increased 20-fold since 1964. Globally, approximately 311 million tonnes of plastics were produced in 2014, expected to double in about 20years time period and possibly quadruple by 2050. Yearly approximately 500 billion plastic bags are used out of which an estimated 13 million tonnes end up in the ocean, killing approximately 1,00,000 marine lives. It is evident that there is an urgent need to adapt an approach, implement a global legal framework, and develop alternatives to plastic products to protect human health from the severe plastic pollution crisis.
Priyanka Chaudhary
Plastic Pollution and Health Impacts
Abstract
The global plastic production is estimated to be 390.7 million tonnes per year and that of India is 25 million tonnes a year, about 6% of the global plastic consumption (Rafey, A., & Siddiqui, F. Z. (2023). International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 103(16), 3971–3987). A global material balance study on plastics points to 57.6% of the total plastics produced in the world to date entering our environment as waste. Only 7.6% of the total plastic waste produced has been recycled, 10.8% incinerated, and 24.6% of plastics are still in use (UNEP, 2021). Per capita generation of plastic waste in some Indian states is 50 g while the Indian average is 8 g per capita per day (CSE. (2020). Plastic waste is India’s and the world’s most formidable environmental challenge today, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made matters worse: CS). In India, an increasing number of citizens are using single-use plastics with very little thought for the environment or health. Release of additive chemicals in plastics during manufacture, due to contamination and recycling, chemicals released during incineration are harmful to the health of workers and their families (Benjaminsen, C. (2024). Researchers surprised at levels of toxicity in standard plastic products). These bioaccumulate, cause cancers and endocrine disruption. Environmental degradation of plastics causes microplastic generation, land and marine pollution (Endocrine Society. (2020, December). Press release, plastics pose threat to human health). Therefore, governments need to recognize that plastic production must be reduced, and single-use plastics must be banned using penalties and incentives for behavioural change. Facilitating the use of reusables is the way forward.
Shyamala K. Mani
Plastic Debris, Microplastics, and Marine Pollution
Abstract
Plastic debris has emerged as a significant contributor to marine pollution, posing substantial threats to marine ecosystems due to its persistence, ubiquity, and inherent toxicity. This issue has been exacerbated by the continuous introduction of microplastics into the oceans from the degradation of marine plastics or transportation from land sources. Microplastics are minute plastic particles indiscernible to the naked eye and disseminated across vast distances via rivers, lakes, streams, and floodwaters. Microplastics can be categorized based on their size or by sources of origin. They can either originate from primary sources where they are added intentionally (personal care products, plastic recycling, and cleaning agents) or secondary sources where they are released as a product of plastic degradation (fragmented plastics like fishing nets, tires, and single-use packaging). These microscopic pollutants serve as vectors for highly toxic chemicals in the ocean, some of which are persistent and endocrine-disrupting. Microorganisms mistake these particles for food, ingesting them with adsorbed chemicals, which later culminate in adverse effects on the ecosystem via bioaccumulation and contamination of the food chain. The regular detection of microplastics in the human body further underscores the severity of the issue. Recognized globally as a significant concern, efforts are currently underway to mitigate the adverse impacts of plastics and microplastics on the environment and human health.
Satish Sinha
Current status of marine litter and microplastic contamination across India’s coastal boundaries: Challenges and Management
Abstract
Marine litter, composed of a diverse array of materials ranging from plastics to metals, has emerged as a pervasive and escalating environmental concern. Within this broader issue, microplastics (MPs, size ≤5 mm), have garnered particular attention due to their ubiquity and potential ecological ramifications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding marine litter and microplastics in the Indian marine environment, emphasizing their sources, distribution, impacts, and potential mitigation strategies. Marine life can ingest these particles, leading to physical harm, blockage of digestive systems, and potential transfer of toxic substances up the food chain. Additionally, microplastics can act as vectors for transporting harmful pathogens and pollutants, exacerbating the ecological consequences. While the full extent of health risks is still being explored, preliminary studies suggest the need for a comprehensive understanding of the consequences of microplastic ingestion on human health. Accurately assessing the extent and impact of microplastics presents significant challenges. Detection and quantification methods vary, and the microscopic nature of these pollutants complicates monitoring efforts. Standardized protocols for sampling and analysis are crucial for generating reliable data and facilitating cross-comparisons between studies. Efforts to address marine litter and microplastics involve a combination of regulatory measures, technological innovations, and public awareness initiatives. Implementing effective waste management practices on land, reducing single-use plastic consumption, and promoting recycling are crucial steps. Advanced technologies for the detection and removal of marine litter, and the development of biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics, contribute to mitigation efforts.
Pravakar Mishra, K. Dhineka, T. Kaviarasan, M. Sambandam, Sunanda Sahu
Abundance of microplastics in the mangrove dominated Indian Sundarbans: A mini-review
Abstract
We monitored microplastics in ambient surface water and sediments in two different sectors of Indian Sundarbans during August 2023, which are significantly different in terms of salinity. The western sector of Indian Sundarbans is exposed to high anthropogenic influences compared to the central sector, which is adjacent to the Reserve Forest (RF) with almost negligible anthropogenic footprint. The western sector is dominated by fishing activities and industrial effluent drainage along with regular thoroughfare of tourists, making the estuarine waters a dumping ground for plastic waste and debris. Fishing nets and trawls also contribute to the waste load. The central sector, being nearer to the RF is less frequented by tourists, but tidal influx and frequent storms bring in the microplastics from other zones to accumulate here. Our first-order analysis reveals considerable plastic litter in the western sector, which can cause adverse impact on mangrove biodiversity. Nearly 78 tonnes of plastic wastes have been found in the delta complex due to unregulated tourism and fishing pressure. Transfer of microplastics through food-webs and their subsequent bioaccumulation can cause significant ecological damage to the biodiversity of Sundarbans. Although the Government of West Bengal, India, has been tackling the problem in their own capacity, more policy intervention is required to combat the danger arising from emerging contaminants like microplastics. In this context, continuous awareness programs are needed involving the major stakeholders like fishermen, tourists, and local island dwellers. This should be backed up with stringent regulatory measures to address the alarming situations keeping the goal of environment and biodiversity conservation in close alignment with the mission and vision of SDG 14.
Tapti Sengupta, Abhijit Mitra

Green Solutions and Technologies

Frontmatter
Overview of Plastics, Usage, Pollution and Mitigation
Abstract
An overview of plastic industry, its exponential growth since 1950, its ubiquitous usage in wide variety of industries starting from packaging, transport, real estate, infrastructure, food, health, consumables, fixtures and furniture’s, household goods, etc., have been deliberated. Flexibility, low weight, strength, low costs, yet aesthetically appealing are some of the reasons why plastics are omnipresent in modern human lives. Most of the plastics used today are polymers and are synthetically produced from fossil fuel removing any natural restrictions to the supply of ingredients. This is why plastic production has kept pace with the rapid increase in plastic demand. The various types of plastics and their varied usages, and their chemistry have been discussed at length. Unfortunately, plastics are not biodegradable and this has created around six billion tons of plastic waste and plastic waste is found everywhere in this planet. Worse is that these plastics find their way to oceans. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays, water currents, and wind action breaks these plastics into microplastics. Fish and other sea animals eat these plastics creating havoc with the marine ecosystem. Like global warming plastic pollution is also threatening the existence of all the species including human beings. Ongoing scientific research to mitigate this menace of plastic pollution using bacteria, worms, and fungi which can ingest plastics by secreting enzymes has also been discussed. The challenge is to identify different combination of enzymes which could eat different types of plastics. Lifestyle changes and greater usage of bioplastics have been suggested to at least arrest the rapid growth of plastic waste.
Gautam Sen
Role of Digitization in Achieving Sustainable Waste Management of Plastic and Other Materials
Abstract
India generates 1,54,090 TPD(Tonnes Per Day) of municipal solid waste of which 76% gets processed. Increasing urbanization, population growth, and changing lifestyles with economic growth  clearly indicate that waste generation and associated challenges will keep on growing further. The problems in waste management are mostly linked with appropriate data and management strategies. There lies a strong role for digitalization in the waste sector to bring appropriate monitoring, review, and verification (MRVs) mechanisms in place, helping with enhanced efficiencies and transformation towards a circular economy. To understand the flow of dry waste from cities and the monitoring mechanism adopted by urban local bodies in the country, a baseline study was undertaken in 2021–2022. The need was felt to come up with a framework, which enables transparency, ease of replicability, and the ability to connect with markets. A digital waste exchange platform “Sansaadhan” was conceptualized, facilitating visualization of flow patterns and stocks from within city MRFs (Material Recovery Facilities) to the city administration as well as state-level administration. Data in a clustered and decluttered manner can be analysed via bar graphs, pie charts, and line graphs—demonstrating the performance of specific materials and sub-materials over each month. The portal enables transactions between recycling markets and MRFs by providing access and communication mechanisms. The trends and reports we get from the Sansaadhan Portal will open various fronts for discussion and peer learning among cities. Digital transformation can transform the way we see the waste management industry. Of course, this will demand more security for data and capacities in cities at all levels to manage digitalization at workspaces. This chapter presents the details about the created digital portal and mechanisms by which cities and states will benefit and secure better implementation of SBM 2.0.
Sourabh Manuja
Plastic Waste Crisis: How Smart Cities Can Lead the Change
Abstract
With rapid urbanisation and population growth on track for enhanced economic prosperity resulting in increased consumption, an exponential increase in municipal solid waste, including plastic waste is seen. In cities, plastic pollution often arises from the linear model of plastic consumption, where plastics are used once and discarded. This practice leads to litter in streets, water bodies, and natural ecosystems. Implementing circular economy principles involves designing systems that keep plastics in circulation for longer periods. This includes supporting initiatives such as recycling programmes, extended producer responsibility, and encouraging the use of reusable materials. Smart cities leverage technology and data to enhance urban living, sustainability, and efficiency. Consequently, in managing plastic pollution and transitioning to a circular economy, smart cities’ technological solutions can play a crucial role. These technologies empower both authorities and communities with real-time analytics to guide infrastructure, policies, and habits that curb plastic waste generation. By transitioning to a circular economy, cities can not only help reduce plastic pollution but also create economic opportunities and decrease their reliance on the production of new plastics. This chapter presents an insight into two smart cities in India, Indore and Panaji, that demonstrate proactive technology-based initiatives to manage waste, especially plastic pollution. These cities provide examples to inspire and create a more sustainable and resilient environment.
Neha G. Tripathi
Plastic Waste Management in Fertilizer Sector—A Case Study
Abstract
India is the second largest consumer of fertilizers in the world. There was consumption of about 64 million tonnes of fertilizer products in 2022–23. Most of the material is sold in HDPE or polypropylene bags in sizes of 50 and 45 kg. These bags are of high strength meeting the relevant BIS standard to withstand multiple handling, transport and storage in the distribution chain from the factory or port to the doorstep of farmers. According to one estimate, around 150 thousand tonnes of plastic packaging is used every year. The fertilizer companies are treated as brand owners and have to abide by the Guidelines on Extended Producers Responsibility for Plastic Packaging under Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 as amended from time to time. The used fertilizer bags find multiple applications in rural and semi-urban areas and hence play an important role in the rural economy. The chapter gives the life cycle of fertilizer bags and practices adopted by the fertilizer companies for compliance with Plastic Management Rules 2016 and guidelines issued under Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules 2022.
Manish Goswami, S. Nand
Plastics and the Sustainability Paradox
Abstract
Plastics are a family of new-generation materials synthesized mainly from hydrocarbon building blocks by using the knowledge of chemistry. While the first truly synthetic plastic, Phenol Formaldehyde (PF), was invented in 1907, major uses of plastics happened in the middle of the last century. Today, there are over 25 different types of plastic materials and nearly 8000 different grades used to produce innumerable plastic products. While this makes plastics highly versatile, it also makes post-consumer waste management highly challenging. Plastic products are ubiquitous in modern day living, offering unprecedented benefits. However, public perception of plastics, influenced by media coverage of visible pollution, is highly adversarial. Plastic products, paradoxically, in most cases have lower environmental footprints compared to alternatives. A major pathway to mitigating plastic pollution is to aggressively pursue the path of circular economy. This requires significant investment in waste management infrastructure, particularly in developing countries, and promoting changes in consumer behavior to eliminate indiscriminate littering. Since majority of plastics reach the consumers as accompanied products in the form of packaging, it is worthwhile pondering over the viability of reducing overall demand for such products and their waste burden. This is the basic tenet of sustainability.
Swapan Ray
Plastics in the Indian Ocean: Survey, Transport, and Removal
Abstract
Over the last thirty years, a significant rise in plastic production, driven by population growth and economic development, has led to a substantial increase in plastic in the oceans. The leading cause of plastic pollution in the ocean is the mishandling of plastic waste on land. Marine plastic pollution affects all nations, particularly developing countries, as marine plastic debris is challenging to locate and retrieve due to knowledge gaps in this area. This study aims to address the issues of marine plastic pollution, track its sources, and highlight the efforts made to reduce the impacts of marine plastic pollution, focusing on India. In India, various initiatives have been taken by the government and NGOs to address the issue of marine plastic pollution. For instance, the Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar campaign was a national-level beach cleanup initiative that enabled the removal of macroplastic debris from 60 beaches in India. Despite various efforts, this problem persists, as there is a knowledge gap in understanding the dynamics of marine plastic debris, especially microplastics. This study aims to be a starting point for initiating research into dynamics so that better waste management policies can be drafted, especially to retrieve marine plastic debris and prevent plastic from entering the ocean.
R. Venkatesan, R. Keerthivasan, Yazhini Sivaram, S. Ramasundaram
Microbial Biodegradation of Plastics and Microplastics: Recent Development
Abstract
The persistent and potentially harmful nature of plastic and microplastic pollution has given rise to significant ecological concerns, posing threats to both ecosystems and human health. Recognizing the pivotal role of biological processes in plastic degradation there is a growing focus on the feasibility of utilizing microorganisms for this purpose. This study initiates a preliminary discussion on the biodegradation mechanism, emphasizing the advantages and roles of distinct bacterial enzymes, such as PET hydrolase and PCL-cutinase. PET hydrolase targets PET, while PCL-cutinase is effective against PCL, showcasing their diverse applications in polymer degradation. The review provides insights into the modes of action and potential enzymatic mechanisms employed by these bacterial enzymes, summarizing studies on the biological degradation of plastics and microplastics. Mechanisms and influencing factors, along with the enzymes enhancing synthetic plastics’ degradation, are highlighted. Moreover, the adverse impacts of plastic additives and plasticizers on biodegradation are discussed, underlining their role in plastic pollution. Recognizing the need for enhanced degradation efficiency and reduced toxic plastic pollution, various pre-treatments are explored. These pre-treatments aim to optimize the efficiency of biodegradation, offering a promising avenue for mitigating the environmental impact of plastics. While existing research demonstrates the involvement of numerous microorganisms in plastic biodegradation, the specific mechanisms remain an area for further exploration. This knowledge gap presents a significant opportunity to harness various bacterial strains for efficient plastic degradation, contributing to improved human health and safety. Future endeavors should delve into unraveling the intricate mechanisms employed by these microorganisms for a more comprehensive understanding of their potential.
Ayesha Nazeer, Atiya Ahmad, Faisal Ahmad, Shamim Ahmad
Plastic Waste to Value: Desirable Technology Interventions
Abstract
Plastics were designed to be materials that did not biodegrade so that they could be in use, over a longer period without losing strength, etc. With time, plastics replaced conventional materials such as metals, wood, leather, paper, etc., for industrial and household applications. Plastics are the materials of choice and are called wonder materials. Replacing wood and paper saved forests and replacing metal brought down transport costs as well as improved performance per kg of materials used. However, disposal of single-use plastics created environmental issues forcing policymakers across the globe to ban plastics. Instead of putting the proper systems and infrastructure to manage the disposal of plastic waste, municipal authorities opt for an easy solution to this problem by banning single-use plastics. Plastic waste ending up in oceans through rivers is a matter of concern today as it is responsible for killing organisms and species. For a circular economy, creating value from waste plastics is essential. This chapter deals with various aspects of plastic waste, mainly to bring out the state-of-the-art technologies adopted to create value from plastic waste. It provides answers to key questions: Why plastics? What are plastics? How are they different from polymers? What are the properties of plastics? Why is plastic waste a cause of concern? How to convert plastic waste into valuable products? What technology interventions are required to create value from plastic waste? A path forward for managing plastic waste?
Pranshu Chhabra, Ruchi Gupta, K. Nidhi, Meenu Talwar, Rakesh K. Khandal
Titel
Plastic Pollution
Herausgegeben von
Malti Goel
Neha G. Tripathi
Copyright-Jahr
2024
Verlag
Springer Nature Singapore
Electronic ISBN
978-981-9755-28-8
Print ISBN
978-981-9755-27-1
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-5528-8

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