Disposal Practices Research Articles

Prevalence of unused medications and determinants among the general public in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Accumulation, improper storage, and disposal of unused medications in the households have become a growing public health, environmental and economic concern. However, the magnitude, reasons, and disposal practices of the problems are not well studied in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and determinants of unused medications at household levels in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect data in Addis Ababa from April to May 2021. A total of 759 households in the Gulele and Lideta sub-cities were included in the survey using systematic random sampling techniques. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire and structured observation checklist. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with unused medications. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 21. Among the surveyed households, 463 (61%) had unused medications of which anti-pains (30%) and anti-microbials (29%) were found to be the most common classes. The main reasons for the presence of unused medications were saving for future use (35.8%) and 'relief' or disappearance of symptoms (23.8%). The majority of households (69.2%) used household garbage for the disposal of their unused medications. A multivariable logistic regression analysis identified households who earned higher incomes, namely 8,001-12,000 ETB (AOR = 2.6 (1.2-5.7)) and more than 12,000 ETB (AOR = 2.9 (1.2-7.0)) were more likely to have unused medications. There is a high prevalence of unused medications and unsafe disposal practice in households of Addis Ababa. Education about the rational use and safe disposal practice of prescribed medications should be given to the community. The government should come up with appropriate legal frameworks and device appropriate collection and disposal mechanism for unused medications emanating from households.

Culture-Independent Quantitative PCR Detected Mobilized Colistin Resistance Genes (mcr-1, mcr-2, mcr-3, mcr-4, and mcr-5) in Chicken Gut Contents in Bangladesh

Inappropriate antimicrobial use in food animal farming propels antimicrobial resistance (AMR) that affects all health domains. Colistin is a ‘Reserve’ antibiotic for human treatment to be conserved for multidrug-resistant pathogens; however, it is being used as an animal growth promoter in many developing countries. The evolution of mobilized colistin resistance (mcr) gene-mediated colistin resistance has been reported to be associated with rampant colistin use. This study investigated the current variants of the mcr gene in chicken gut contents in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional study was designed to assess the mcr-1 to mcr-5 genes in 80 fresh poultry droppings from commercial poultry farms and 40 poultry droppings from household farms. DNA was extracted from each poultry dropping using commercial kits (Qiagen GmbH, Hilden, Germany). Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was employed using the qTOWER3 thermal cycler (Analytik Jena GmbH, Jena, Germany) to analyze the mcr gene variants in the extracted DNA. This study observed that 47.5% (57/120) of the samples exhibited the presence of at least one mcr gene out of the five variants investigated. The individual detection rates of the mcr-1, mcr-2, mcr-3, mcr-4, and mcr-5 genes were 42.5% (51/120), 2.5% (3/120), 1.7% (2/120), 5% (6/120), and 9.2% (11/120), respectively. The co-carriage of two or more genes was found in over 10% (10/57) of the samples. The triple occurrence of mcr genes was identified in three samples with the combination of mcr-1+mcr-2+mcr-4, mcr-1+mcr-3+mcr-5, and mcr-1+mcr-4+mcr-5. Overall, a significantly higher number of mcr genes were identified in the commercial farm chicken droppings compared to the household chicken droppings (p = 0.007). The existence of mcr genes in poultry feces in Bangladesh emphasizes the importance of proper poultry waste disposal and good hygiene practices in poultry livestock and its value chain. The potential impact of environmental ARGs should be considered in national and global policy documents. An integrated and combined approach to the One Health concept should be applied in all domains to understand and control the environment’s role in the evolution and transmission of AMR.

Microbiological quality of drinking water from three flood-prone communities along the Odaw River in Accra, Ghana

ABSTRACT Access to safe drinking water is considered a fundamental human right, yet, in most developing countries, this is not the case, as microbial contamination of drinking water is commonly responsible for the transmission of many waterborne diseases, including cholera, typhoid fever, diarrhoea, and dysentery. The study aimed to assess the microbiological quality of drinking water from three communities along the Odaw River in Accra, known for their poor waste disposal practices and incidents of flooding. Water samples were collected from community tap water and locally manufactured sachet water from three flood-prone communities along the Odaw River, namely, Alajo, Avenor, and Agbogbloshie, and analyzed for the presence of indicator organisms: total coliforms, faecal coliforms, and Escherichia coli (E. coli). All brands of sachet water sampled from the three communities had no microbial contamination. Conversely, most community tap water showed contamination with indicator organisms that exceeded the international standard of 0 per 100 mL for potable water. The presence of faecal coliforms and E. coli in community shared tap water is an indication of poor water quality and may present a risk for waterborne disease outbreaks among households and communities.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of the healthcare staff and students about disposal of unwanted medications: a systematic review

Abstract Introduction Improper disposal of medications poses a significant environmental risk on the ecosystems and human beings1. When medicines are discarded by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the household trash, their active components may leak into the water supply2. Aim This systematic review seeks to compile studies that examine healthcare professionals' and students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding medication disposal. It also aims to explore recommendations and barriers related to appropriate medication disposal. Methods A systematic review was conducted by adhering to guidelines outlined in Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 and the Joanna Briggs Institute. The primary outcome is to measure the levels of the healthcare staff and students' knowledge, as well as their attitudes, and practices about disposal of unwanted medications. Authors included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method primary research studies. Participants included pharmacists, doctors, nurses, and both undergraduate and postgraduate medical, pharmacy, and nursing students due to their significant involvement with medication and its disposal in healthcare settings. Data extraction was conducted by four of the researchers independently. The study details were categorised into three main domains i.e., knowledge, attitude, and practice using the KAP model. Other relevant information was also extracted, thematically, such as challenges and recommendations. Ethical approval was not required as this systematic review used previously published data. Results 37 studies from 18 countries (21 from Asia, 7 from the US, 5 from Africa, and 2 each from the EU and South America) met the inclusion criteria. 86.5% (n=32) investigated participants' knowledge of medication disposal. Although there is a good level of awareness about the environmental impacts, there are significant gaps in knowledge regarding correct disposal methods, available services, guidelines, and training. 30 studies explored participants' attitudes toward medication disposal. The results indicate a generally positive attitude towards the need for environmentally safe disposal practices. 35 studies evaluated participants' practices in relation to medication disposal. Although there was generally a positive attitude and some understanding of appropriate disposal methods, majority of the participants do not follow the practice guidelines, especially outside healthcare settings. This inconsistency may be due to numerous factors such as inadequate practical training, limited resources, or unclear guidelines. Discussion/ Conclusion Overall, it was found that while healthcare staff and students have fair knowledge and positive attitudes toward medicine disposal, their actual practices are lacking. One significant challenge identified is the limited awareness about proper disposal methods coupled with a lack of established services or guidelines in many regions. Even in cases where take-back programs are available, they often face issues with accessibility. To tackle these challenges, it is suggested by the studies that governmental bodies should establish and enforce clear policies on medication disposal while also expanding educational initiatives to increase understanding among healthcare professionals and students about appropriate disposal methods. Furthermore, improving access to take-back programs is crucial for ensuring safe medication disposal and minimising potential environmental and health hazards.

Rapid Assessment Amid an Injection Drug Use-Driven HIV Outbreak in Massachusetts' Merrimack Valley: Highlights from a Case Study.

Illicitly manufactured fentanyl within the drug supply has substantially increased opioid-related overdose deaths and driven infectious disease outbreaks among people who use drugs (PWUD). Local jurisdictions often lack the data and tools necessary to detect and translate such moments into actionable and effective responses. Informed by a risk environment framework, this case study adopted a mixed-methods design spanning two rapid assessment studies with PWUD in Lowell (n = 90) and Lawrence (n = 40), Massachusetts, during an HIV outbreak (2017, Study 1) and following the outbreak (2019, Study 2). Survey responses (n = 130) were summarized by computing descriptive statistics, ethnographic field notes were reviewed, and qualitative interviews (n = 34) were thematically analyzed to contextualize quantitative findings. Study 1 participants reported constrained syringe access, high injecting frequency, syringe reuse, and unsafe syringe disposal practices, and uncovered entrenched social and structural factors exacerbating existing substance use and HIV risks: housing instability, limited harm reduction supplies and services (e.g., MOUD access), and tensions between law enforcement and PWUD. Following the outbreak and substantial local investments in harm reduction and treatment infrastructures, Study 2 participants indicated lower injection risk reporting fewer syringe reuse episodes, improved syringe disposal practices, high frequency of naloxone administration at recent overdoses, frequent testing for HIV and HCV, and greater engagement with syringe services programs. A rapid assessment approach to fentanyl's emergence and a concomitant HIV outbreak provided time-sensitive, critical insights and identified needed and local response strategies. However, unless social and structural risk factors are also addressed, community vulnerability to future HIV outbreaks remains.

Evaluation of a Menstrual Hygiene Education Program for Adolescent Girls in Rural India

ObjectiveTo assess the impact of a pharmacist-mediated education program on menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in and around Balagangadaranatha (BG) Nagara, India. DesignPre- and postintervention study conducted over 6 months. Setting/Local ProblemAdolescent girls in India, especially in rural areas, may lack proper knowledge and a supportive atmosphere to deal with menstruation-related concerns. Many myths and taboos also make it difficult or impossible to find accurate information about menstruation and menstrual hygiene. ParticipantsThe sample included 585 female high school students who had begun menstruation and lived in and around BG Nagara, India. InterventionAn educational training session provided information about the menstrual cycle, sanitary products, proper disposal practices, and menstrual disorders. Information addressed the psychological and social dimensions of menstruation to mitigate stigma. Educational leaflets about personal menstruation hygiene practices were also provided. ResultsPre- and posttests were administered to assess participants’ knowledge of and practices regarding menstrual hygiene. Pretest scores indicated that 43.8% (n = 164) of participants had good knowledge of menstruation, 86% (n = 503) used sanitary pads, and 73.2% (n = 428) thought that increasing nutritious food was necessary during menstruation. Posttest scores indicated an increase in all areas (p < .001). ConclusionHealth education was associated with an improvement in female high school students’ knowledge of and practices related to menstrual hygiene. More menstrual health education strategies and awareness programs are needed to improve the knowledge and health of adolescent girls.

Assessment of egg quality, food safety, and hygiene practices among commercial and non-commercial farms of Barwala district of Panchkula, Haryana

ABSTRACT Background: The aim of the present study was to assess the egg quality, food safety, and hygiene practices in egg production among commercial and non-commercial farms. Methods: A total of six, each commercial and non-commercial farm, were randomly selected form Barwala district, Panchkula, Haryana, for this study in 2019. A detailed interview on hygiene practices of farm workers was conducted. Egg samples were procured for external (N = 60) and internal (N = 24) egg quality determination. The swap samples (N = 24) were also analysed for bacterial contamination. Descriptive statistics were used for reporting the results, and Chi-square test was conducted for determining significant differences between commercial and non-commercial farms. Results: The egg yolk percentage (34.49%) and egg shell percentage (12.76) were higher among non-commercial farms. However, no significant external (P = 0.890) or internal (P = 0.367) egg quality difference was found between commercial and non-commercial farms. The biosecurity and disinfection management, daily waste disposal practice, fly and rodent control practice, farm activity record, and flock health monitoring were relatively better among commercial farms. There were no significant differences found in any of these assessments. The colony forming units (cfu) for salmonella and coliform were acceptable in three and four procured samples from commercial farms, respectively, whereas none were within acceptable levels among non-commercial farms. Conclusion: The internal egg quality, food safety, and hygiene practices were relatively better among commercial farms as compared to non-commercial farms. This requires further validation through a large sample-sized study.

Disposal of Unused Antibiotics in Community Pharmacies in Saudi Arabia: A Mixed-Methods Study.

Improper disposal of unused antibiotics poses a significant global challenge, drawing attention from various stakeholders. This discharge of antibiotics into the environment can occur through various means such as industrial production, consumption, and excretion by humans and animals, as well as improper disposal of unused or expired antibiotics. The aim of our study is to investigate the availability of proper disposal of antibiotics in community pharmacies and to explore obstacles and opportunities from pharmacist's point of view. This study used a mixed-methods approach that consisted of two study arms: quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative arm used a mystery-shopper method for assessing the disposal of antibiotics in community pharmacies. The qualitative study arm consisted of several in-depth semi-structured focus groups with a sample of pharmacists working in community pharmacies in Riyadh. The mystery shopper arm showed that 85% (n=88) refused to take the return of antibiotics. Interviews with pharmacists have indicated a lack of knowledge on safe disposal methods for antibiotics and medications. Additionally, pharmacists have cited several factors contributed to accumulation of the antibiotics such as nonadherence or policies mandating the sale of whole medication packs instead of the required amounts as a contributing factor to this issue. Furthermore, there is a lack of dedicated facilities for the population to safely dispose of their medications and/antibiotics. By acknowledging the factors contributing to improper disposal practices, recognizing the importance of proper antibiotic disposal, and advocating for multi-faceted initiatives, we can work towards mitigating this critical issue. Through collaborative efforts involving education, policy interventions, and community engagement, we can foster a culture of responsible medication disposal, ultimately safeguarding public health and environmental well-being.

Household Pharmaceutical Disposal Practices, Community Understanding, and Readiness for Medicines Take-Back in Asmara, Eritrea: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Household Pharmaceutical Disposal Practices, Community Understanding, and Readiness for Medicines Take-Back in Asmara, Eritrea: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Molecular Profiling of Rice Straw Degradability Discrepancy in Stropharia rugosoannulata Core Germplasm.

The rice-S. rugosoannulata pattern is a rapidly growing agricultural practice for straw disposal and mushroom production in China. However, different S. rugosoannulata strains show a large variation in rice straw degradability. Here, we constructed a core collection of S. rugosoannulata containing 14 strains with rich genetic diversity. The molecular profiling of the lignocellulose degradability discrepancy of S. rugosoannulata strains was then explored using enzyme activity assays and transcriptome analysis. The results indicated that mycelial growth rate, lignocellulolytic enzyme activities, and rice straw degradability differed widely among the S. rugosoannulata core strains. The genes encoding lignin modifying and degrading auxiliary enzymes, oxidases, glycoside hydrolases, and detoxification proteins were differentially expressed between two representative S. rugosoannulata strains, resulting in differences in their lignocellulolytic enzyme activities and further causing differences in lignocellulose degradability. This study is useful to improve the production efficiency of S. rugosoannulata and promote the recycling of rice straw.

BATERIAS DE CARROS ELÉTRICOS: MANUTENÇÕES E DESCARTES

The rapid growth in the adoption of electric vehicles brings to light challenges related to the maintenance and disposal of batteries, which are essential components for the operation of these vehicles. The central issue addressed is the sustainability of the battery life cycle, considering both the efficiency of their maintenance and the environmental impacts resulting from inadequate disposal. The context involves the transition to a greener economy and the demands for clean technologies, which makes it essential to discuss appropriate practices to extend the useful life of batteries and ensure their safe disposal. The main objective of this study is to analyze the maintenance practices of electric car batteries and disposal strategies, focusing on minimizing environmental impacts and optimizing the life cycle of components. The research seeks to identify effective methods to extend the useful life of batteries, in addition to evaluating existing recycling policies and processes. The methodology used includes a literature review of current battery maintenance and disposal practices, in addition to the analysis of case studies that exemplify different approaches and results in international contexts. The research also incorporates interviews with industry experts, aiming to obtain a comprehensive and updated view of best practices and challenges faced. This work contributes to the discussion on sustainability in the automotive sector and to the formulation of more efficient policies for the management of technological waste.

Practice Towards Storage of Unused and Disposal of Expired Medicines among Households in Dharan, Nepal

Introduction: Improper disposal of unused medications has been a public health problem, as unused drug adversely effects on health and environment. Objective: The main objective of this study was to assess the extent of unused medications disposal knowledge, attitude, and practice of among household in Dharan, Province 1, Nepal. Methods: A survey based descriptive study was used. Households were conveniently selected and interviewed using structured questionnaires. Attitudes and practices regarding medicine disposal and storage were asked. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 20.0 software and presented descriptively. Results: Among 380 household surveyed, majority of respondents (82%) reported storing unused medications in their home and only 5% reported returning medication to a pharmacy. Predominant reason for medication non-used was disease or symptoms felt improved (80 %). Less than half of respondents (45%) had check the expiry date of their medicine before purchasing. Most respondents (88%) thought that improper disposal of medicine may cause harmful effects to health and environment. Conclusion: Incorrect practices were found in Dharan families with regard to the storage and disposal of unused medications. Along with a comprehensive media campaign to inform consumers about safe medication disposal techniques, an efficient method for disposing of leftover medications should be offered. This system should be supported by local pharmacist.

Environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and hazards of chemicals in e-cigarette e-liquids: short-listing chemicals for risk assessments

Background/MethodsIncreased use and sales of e-cigarettes raises concerns about the potential environmental impacts throughout their life-cycle. However, few available research studies focus on the environmental impacts and ecotoxicity of e-cigarettes....

The insensitivity of ‘sensitive care’: the bureaucracy of pregnancy tissue disposal in England, UK

The practices surrounding pregnancy ends and pregnancy remains shift and change depending on the cultural and historical context. Based on ethnographic research in one group NHS Hospital organisation in England, the paper explores what practices around pregnancy remains reveal about the values afforded the material in different contexts by different actors and the moments when these intersect. It argues that framing miscarriage as bereavement helps to structure caregiving in clinical settings and that clinical practices produce foetal personhood in ways that may not be in keeping with women’s notions of their pregnancy material. It illustrates that hospital practices contain notions of value which become legitimated as the appropriate approach with consequences for normativity. This may lead to women feeling isolated and abnormal when their approach is at odds with that of the clinic. Through an exploration of how women encounter and negotiate disposal practices, the paper argues that current practice requires revision to flexibly respond to diversity but also shifting meaning and values attributed to these experiences and materials.

Insights into Drug Donation Practices and Public Perceptions in Saudi Arabia

Background: Effective medication management, disposal, and donation are vital for public health and environmental sustainability. Improper handling of medications can lead to drug misuse, accidental poisoning, and environmental damage. This study examines current practices and challenges in Saudi Arabia, identifying opportunities for improvement. Method: A cross-sectional survey conducted in October and November 2023 targeted the general population in Saudi Arabia. This study employed convenience sampling to explore medication usage, storage, disposal practices, and awareness of donation procedures. Data were analyzed through both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: This study involved 430 respondents. Of these, 73.0% held a university degree, yet 66.3% were unaware of drug donation programs, and 84.2% lacked knowledge about proper medication disposal. Despite this, 71.4% believed that drug donation programs positively impact healthcare, and 87.9% saw them as reducing drug waste and environmental pollution. However, 48.1% expressed concerns about the potential misuse of donated medicines. Awareness and knowledge were significantly higher among participants aged 30 and above. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for enhanced public awareness, clear medication disposal guidelines, and ethically governed donation practices in Saudi Arabia. These measures can improve healthcare outcomes, protect the environment, and support global health and sustainability goals.

Perceived social, economic, environmental and health effects of solid waste management practices in logia town, afar, ethiopia

Improper solid waste management in urban and semi-urban areas has led to adverse impacts on the environment, public health, and the economic well-being of communities. Therefore, this study analyzes the status of household solid waste management practices and their effects in Logia Town, Afar, Ethiopia. To achieve this objective, the study utilizes both descriptive and econometric models (binary logistic regression model). The descriptive results of the study revealed that there is general awareness of the importance of solid waste management (SWM) and its impact on the environment, economy, and human health among the respondents. Regarding respondents’ attitudes, the majority of households understand the responsibility of proper waste disposal and its impact. However, in terms of solid waste management practices, 80% of households do not properly segregate their waste, 59.3% do not separate solid waste (SW) before disposal, and 74% of households engage in improper disposal practices. About 95.9% of respondents were aware that improper waste management can lead to diseases such as diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera. Around 65% of the sampled households considered solid waste as a source of wealth, and, as a result, 56% of them reuse, recycle, and reduce waste. This indicates that solid waste has economic value for society. Regarding the environmental impact of SW, about 89% of respondents argued that SW adversely affects the environment by polluting rivers, lakes, wells, and air. This environmental impact negatively affects the well-being and economic status of the community. The binary logistic regression model found that having adequate solid waste landfills, access to door-to-door solid waste collection, knowledge of SWM rules and regulations, treating waste as a resource, and understanding the 3Rs (recycle, reuse, reduce) had positive and significant effects on the adoption of proper solid waste management practices in the study area. Therefore, to reduce undesirable effects and improve the value of SW, the relevant authorities should provide adequate solid waste landfills and door-to-door collection services, create awareness about SWM rules and regulations, and promote knowledge of the 3Rs.

Infrastructures of Surveillance and Control in the Invisible City of Waste

ABSTRACT This paper offers a situated analysis of infrastructures of surveillance and control in Rotterdam through Latour & Hermant’s concept of the oligopticon. Oligopticons are networked devices and their supporting infrastructures that render the city in extremely narrow but very clear representations, in this case as a city of waste hotspots. In Rotterdam, public management is designing data-hungry oligopticons that map, control and intervene in the illegal disposal of waste and litter. An analysis of two vignettes from the author’s ethnographic fieldwork finds that these oligopticons do more than simply make visible and control these practices of waste disposal: they instead engage in punitive politics that frames those who illegally dispose of waste as exceptions to a normalizing way of life, fighting not waste but difference. Through ethnographic comparison, this paper aims to evoke thought, imagination and reflection in readers regarding the consequences of infrastructures of surveillance and control and the intimate knowledge that may escape these infrastructures.

Disposal practices, knowledge and attitude of adult patients visiting outpatient pharmacy services towards unused medicines in Debre Tabor, Northwest Ethiopia: a descriptive cross-sectional study

ObjectiveAccumulation at home and improper disposal of unused medicines pose a major public health problem. Knowledge and attitude of patients may contribute to accumulation and disposal practice of unused medicines....

E-Waste Management Practices Through the Eyes of Responsible Departments at Malaysian Public Universities

Electronic and electrical waste (E-waste) has been identified as the fastest-growing waste stream in the world. In Malaysia, forecasts indicate that it will soon reach 24.5 million units of e-waste by the year 2025. Today, higher learning institutions also contribute to the rapidly growing threat of e-waste. Besides mobile phones, the usage of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment at universities keeps increasing and contributes to the increased quantity of e-waste, while the handling and disposal methods of e-waste still need to be improved. The purpose of this paper is to examine the current e-waste management system as well as to investigate the critical challenges constraining e-waste management at public universities in Malaysia. By using a qualitative approach, a number of interview sessions have been conducted with the responsible departments at six established public universities in Malaysia. It has been found that currently only e-waste generated from used electric and electronic equipment (EEE) which have been declared as university assets are being managed by the responsible departments at the six universities. All six universities are using the standard process of handling their e-waste since every single process needs to comply with the requirements of the Ministry of Finance (MOF). This remains the main constraint to flexibility or improvement of the current system. The universities are also facing some challenges, among others, lack of awareness and knowledge on how to properly handle e-waste among university citizens, no clear sustainable policy at the university, lack of facilities within the university compound to support the proper practice of e-waste disposal as well as lack of education and related training provided to the campus citizens. This paper also provides some recommendations for the improvement of e-waste management towards sustainability and offers an agenda for future research.

A convenient strategy for mitigating microplastics in wastewater treatment using natural light and ZnO nanoparticles as photocatalysts: A mechanistic study

Polypropylene microplastics (PPMPs) are one of the major emerging contaminants in the ecosystem due to their frequent usage and improper disposal practices. These PPMPs enter ecosystems via wastewater effluent plants and cause severe environmental health issues. In addition, quantifying PPMPs smaller than 50 μm in wastewater plant extraction is very difficult. Thus, the current study was designed to mitigate the PPMPs using zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) as a photocatalyst under sunlight. The photocatalytic reaction was examined using spectroscopic techniques and microscopic imaging. The findings indicated that the weight loss percentage of PPMPs increased, and a decrease in UV–Vis DRS peak intensities was observed. The spectroscopic results elucidated the formation of free radicals, which affect the PPMPs and lead to the formation of carbonyl, allylic, and unsaturated groups. Further, EDS reports clarified that there is increased oxygen content due to the photooxidation process and the disintegration of the polymer chain owing to decreased carbon levels. Overall, ZnO photocatalyst absorbs photons from the visible spectrum of sunlight and forms free radicals, which affect the PPMPs to initiate polymer deterioration. Also, the current study revealed the mechanistic pathway of PPMP degradation under the photocatalytic reaction as proposed in the results obtained above.