Single-use Plastic Research Articles

Biodegradation of low-density polyethylene by the bacterial strains isolated from the dumping site community

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is the predominant single-use plastic and rarely decomposes after disposal. The primary objective of this study was to identify potential bacteria capable of degrading LDPE plastic and investigating the biochemical pathways of this process. Bacteria were isolated from soil samples collected from a local garbage dumping site in Thailand and tested on their capability to degrade LDPE plastic. Two of the bacteria isolated from the dumping site, Bacillus sp. AS3 and Sphingobacterium sp. AS8, demonstrated 3.06% and 2.01% (w/w) LDPE plastic weight loss over four weeks, respectively. Analysis by FTIR showed that both bacterial strains degraded the LDPE in the region of 3200–3400 cm−1, which represents the OH group in a commercial LDPE polymer. Bacillus sp. AS3 caused the formation of a new range in the carbonyl group (C=O stretch) and the alcohol, carboxylic acid, esters, and ethers group (–C–O stretch). GC–MS analysis revealed various depolymerized compounds, such as alkane, alcohol, and carboxylic compounds, during LDPE degradation by Bacillus sp. AS3. Bacillus sp. AS3 illustrated esterase activity as 0.608 ± 0.004 U/mL after incubation. The proposed schematic of the LDPE biodegrading pathway by Bacillus sp. AS3 relies on the identification of depolymerized molecules as evidence. This suggests that Bacillus sp. AS3 possesses extracellular enzymes that break down LDPE into smaller molecules through depolymerization. Moreover, the surface of LDPE degraded by Bacillus sp. AS3 and Spingobacterium sp. AS8 was marked by cavities and a rough texture when observed under SEM analysis. This study provides microbial applications to reduce plastic pollution by utilising microorganisms to assimilate plastic waste as a carbon source.

Prevalence of Microplastics in Coastal Area of Samae San, Thailand and Its Possible Source

This research explored the abundance, morphology, and polymer composition of microplastics (MPs) in various environmental samples within the Samae San subdistrict involving surface soil nearby the dumping site, road dust soil, beach sand and sediment in the area with distinct land- based activities. Dumping site soil exhibited the highest concentration in items per kg of dry weight at 93,734.3, followed by road dust soil (573.0 ± 583.7), beach sand (99.8 ± 75.3), and sediment (83.1 ± 50.4). Morphological traits revealed similarities between transparent fiber-shaped particles in beach sands and sediment, and those in nearby road dust soil, while green sheet-shaped particles dominated in dumping site soil. Predominant polymer types included PE, PET, and PP, associated with daily plastics, fishing gear, and fishing nets. In beach sand and sediment samples, transparent polyamide (nylon) fibers shaped like microplastics (MPs) were notably observed, as it is a common material used in fishing nets. Cluster analysis indicated a resemblance between MPs in beach sand, sediment, and nearby road dust soil, implying that plastic debris, comprising single-use plastics and fishing equipment, could be a potential source of MPs in coastal areas.

“I’d like to carry the world sustainably” – examining sustainable consumption behavior using reusable shopping bags

PurposeIn this study, the authors developed a conceptual model to investigate sustainable consumption behavior, specifically the intention to use reusable bags, and its relationship with two crucial factors influencing the use of single-use plastic bags: cost savings and convenience. This study also aims to explore the mediating roles of environmental concern, guilt and self-efficacy.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative study using online survey involving 421 respondents was conducted, and data analysis performed using structural equation modeling.FindingsThe results indicate that self-efficacy influenced environmental concern and sustainable consumption, while perceived savings did not. Perceived convenience significantly influenced sustainable consumption behavior. Environmental concern had indirect effects on the relationships between perceived savings, perceived convenience and sustainable consumption behavior, whereas guilt did not moderate the relationship between environmental concern and sustainable consumption behavior.Originality/valueThe main contribution lies in the insights for promoting the sustainable use of reusable shopping bags, benefiting both theoretical understanding and practical applications in efforts to encourage sustainable consumption behavior.

Promoting menstrual cups as a sustainable alternative: a comparative study using a labeled discrete choice experiment

Plastic pollution is a global issue that endangers both human health and the ecosystem. Although interest in sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics has grown, their adoption has been insufficient, and menstrual products are no exception. Disposable menstrual products, such as sanitary napkins, continue to dominate over sustainable options like menstrual cups (MCs). Although studies on women’s perceptions and attitudes toward menstrual hygiene management have abounded, there is a lack of research on the development of promotional strategies for sustainable menstrual products. This study aims to fill this research gap by investigating consumers’ decision-making process in the face of a real-life option regarding menstruation products. In this comparative study, we conducted a labeled discrete choice experiment on consumers in Japan (n = 1,929), Indonesia (n = 2,031), and France (n = 2,067) to reveal their preferences for sanitary napkins, tampons, and MCs. The respondents from each country were divided into three groups (one control group and two treatment groups with information provided). The results showed that in all countries, the information regarding the cost-effectiveness of MCs (i.e., per-use cost) was unequivocally significant, whereas information about their health and environmental benefits was not. Access to free MCs can contribute to their adoption and alleviation of period poverty in all countries, with a relatively moderate acceptance in Japan. The results also showed variations across countries in consumer characteristics (attitude toward menstruation, innovation-friendliness, and green consumption) and the use and perceptions of MCs. Hence, tailored promotional strategies should be considered for each market.

Physio-chemical degradation of single-use plastics in natural weather and marine environments

Plastic pollution has reached concerning levels globally, with single-use plastic products (SUPs) comprising at least 50% of plastic waste. This study investigates the physical and chemical degradation of frequently used SUPs, including petroleum-based and bio-based plastics, in natural Northern European coastal weather and marine environments over a three-year period from 2019 to 2022. Addressing a critical knowledge gap, this research was based on a hypothesis that real-world ageing studies on SUPs would produce more accurate time- and process-lines for their transformation from macro-to microplastics than are available today based on the modeling studies more frequently used. The study employs optical examination, mechanical testing, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine and relate physical and chemical changes with time. The results indicate that SUPs undergo significantly faster degradation in natural weather than predicted to date. Photooxidation emerges as the primary degradation pathway for all SUPs, emphasizing the role of light in plastic breakdown. Importantly, physical degradation to microplastics in natural environments is not always associated with significant chemical changes such as breaking chemical bonds. Black SUPs exhibit greater resistance to visible light and ultraviolet radiation than equivalent white and transparent examples. In marine environments, SUPs degrade measurably slower than in air, their degradation slowing with increasing distance from the water surface. Our findings indicate the urgent need for strategies that mitigate the impacts of photo-oxidation of SUPs. Such strategies may include a focus on the removal of post-use SUPs from pavements, roads, beaches, and water surfaces where photo-oxidation is faster than underwater and underground. Preferential use of black SUPs over white or transparent should also be considered.

Environmental Protection: Regulations to Reduce and Eliminate Single-use Plastic in Response to Climate Change

This article examines how the Philippines’ numerous legislations address the problem of single-use plastic pollution in accordance with the concepts of sustainable development. By examining scholarly and related literature on plastic manufacturing and use, plastic ban and restrictions, and other policies connected to plastic pollution, the study found that the national government agencies worked together to address a wide range of climate change solutions to significantly reduce plastic production as well as usage. Plastic usage regulations have been enacted in each of the 17 local government units that fall under Metro Manila’s authority. Individual cities and municipalities, however, may impose varying restrictions due to the fact that their legislation may permit the inclusion of a large variety of different types of plastic compounds. Given this complexity, the rationale behind gradually reducing the consumption of single-use plastic products becomes paramount. Local government agencies require reliable data and effective programs to prevent plastic pollution as global plastic production grows. Regardless of their economic situation, more Philippine cities and municipalities are participating in projects that show their ability to have a global impact on environmental preservation.

Recycling of Waste PET Plastic on Asphalt, by Using Application of Response Surface Methodology: Effect of Production Process Parameters

Plastic, polymers of variable compositions have become object of common use and difficult to digest by micro-organisms, especially single-use plastic waste, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) water canisters. These polymers are source of environmental pollution. Therefore, it is important to manage theme in the good way to protect environment. In this study, different conditions of waste plastic PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) recycling on asphalt were optimized. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) using the Doehlert experimental design has been employed in the optimization. The independent variables considered were bitumen (5-8%), PET (0-12%), Mixing temperature (150-160°C) and Mixing time (20-30min). Four-second order polynomial models were generated. The responses obtained by the models were well described as: specific density (Y.<SUB>SD</SUB>), penetrability (Y.<SUB>P</SUB>), softening point (Y.<SUB>SP</SUB>), and flash point (Y.<SUB>FP</SUB>) of the process with satisfactory fits in terms of absolute average deviation, bias factor and accuracy factor. The optimum responses were 1,04 as specificity gravity (Y.<SUB>SG</SUB>), 60*(1/10mm) as penetrability at 25°C, 100g and 5sec (Y.<SUB>P</SUB>), 50°C as softening point (Y.<SUB>SP</SUB>), and 242°C as flash point (Y.<SUB>FP</SUB>). The statistical relation between the four independent variables and the process responses were well described.

Review of microplastics and chemical risk posed by plastic packaging on the marine environment to inform the Global Plastics Treaty

Plastic overproduction and the resulting increase in consumption has made plastic pollution ubiquitous in all ecosystems. Recognizing this, the United Nations (UN) has started negotiations to establish a global treaty to end plastic pollution, especially in the marine environment. The basis of the treaty has been formulated in terms of turning off the tap, signaling the will to prevent plastic pollution at its source. Based on the distribution of plastic production by sector, the plastic packaging sector consumes the most plastic. The volume and variety of chemicals used in plastic packaging, most of which is single-use, is a major concern. Single-use plastics including packaging is one of the most dominant sources of plastic pollution. Plastic waste causes pollution in water, air and soil by releasing harmful chemicals into the environment and can also lead to exposure through contamination of food with micro- and nano-plastic particles and chemicals through packaging. Marine life and humans alike face risks from plastic uptake through bioaccumulation and biomagnification. While the contribution of plastics ingested to chemical pollution is relatively minor in comparison to other pathways of exposure, the effect of plastic waste on marine life and human consumption of seafood is beyond question. To reduce the long-term impact of plastic, it is crucial to establish a global legally binding instrument to ensure the implementation of upstream rather than downstream solutions. This will help to mitigate the impact of both chemicals and microplastics, including from packaging, on the environment.

Bioplastics: No solution to healthcare's plastic pollution problem.

As Canadian policy-makers recognize the urgency for concerted actions to reduce plastics (e.g., Canada's involvement in the international plastics treaty negotiations, zero plastic waste strategy, and single-use plastics regulations), the healthcare sector must also consider a more sustainable plastics system. In this context, the potential for novel bioplastics to mitigate healthcare's substantial plastic waste problem must be carefully interrogated. Our analysis examines the complexities of bioplastics, highlighting the technical challenges of identifying legitimate sustainable alternatives, and the practical barriers for implementing bioplastics as substitutes for consumable plastics in healthcare. We focus on the Canadian healthcare sector and regulatory landscape with the insights gained being applicable to other sectors and countries. Given the limitations identified, the focus on reducing consumption should remain the priority.

Enhanced Crystallization of Sustainable Polylactic Acid Composites Incorporating Recycled Industrial Cement.

Globally, the demand for single-use plastics has increased due to the rising demand for food delivery and household goods. This has led to environmental challenges caused by indiscriminate dumping and disposal. To address this issue, non-degradable plastics are being replaced with biodegradable alternatives. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a type of biodegradable plastic that has excellent mechanical properties. However, its applications are limited due to its low crystallinity and brittleness. Studies have been conducted to combat these limitations using carbon or inorganic nucleating agents. In this study, waste cement and PLA were mixed to investigate the effect of the hybrid inorganic nucleating agent on the crystallinity and mechanical properties of PLA. Waste cement accelerated the lamellar growth of PLA and improved its crystallinity. The results indicate that the flexural and impact strengths increased by approximately 3.63% and 76.18%, respectively.

Pengelolaan Timbunan Sampah Untuk Menjaga Citra Industri Pariwisata Pada Daya Tarik Wisata Di Bali

Bali merupakan salah satu Pulau dengan potensi pariwisata yang telah berkembang pesat hingga saat ini. Kemasyuran pariwisata Pulau Bali sudah terkenal hingga ke seluruh penjuru dunia. Banyak kegiatan sehari-hari masyarakat menjadi suatu daya Tarik wisata bagi wisatawan baik domestic maupun mancanegara. Setiap kegiatan terutama yang menimbulkan daya Tarik wisata tersebut, menghasilkan sampah baik skala rumah tangga maupun skala industri. Sampah yang dihasilkan hampir ditemui disegala sektor kegiatan dengan salah satunya pada industry pariwisata yang saat ini bergerak sangat masih. Meningkatnya timbulan sampah membuat pemerintah bali lewat terbitnya Peraturan Gubernur Bali nomor 97 tahun 2018 tentang pembatasan timbulan sampah plastik sekali pakai yang menunjukkan semakin seriusnya permasalahan sampah. Timbulan sampah terutama pada daya Tarik wisata, berpotensi dapat merubah pandangan wisatawan terhadap citra pariwisata Bali. Penelitian ini menggali gerakan masyarakat baik secara spontan maupun terorganisir seperti pada komunitas RecycleIndonesia maupun kegiatan masyarakat lain yang peduli pada tingginya timbulan sampah. Diharapkan didapatkan kegiatan alternative dalam membantu mengurangi timbulan sampah plastik yang mendukung dari penerapan Peraturan Gubernur Bali nomor 97 tahun 2018. Kegiatan dari komunitas diharapkan dapat menjaga serta memberikan peninggalan positif bagi generasi mendatang.

Synthetic polymers: A global threat to aquatic benthic environments

Finding time-efficient and cost-effective data collection methods is a challenge when addressing aquatic litter pollution on a global scale. In this study, we analysed data on aquatic benthic debris collected worldwide by volunteer scuba divers through the Dive Against Debris® citizen science initiative, examining its relationship with spatial and socio-economic factors. Plastic-dominated litter was found in both marine (64 %) and freshwater (48 %) environments, followed by metal and glass. Lower litter abundances have been recorded in high income countries such as in Europe, Central Asia and North America. Plastic fragments and fishing lines were the most abundant seafloor litter items, while takeaway containers (aluminium cans, glass bottles) were dominant in freshwater environments. Single-use plastics, including objects for food and beverage consumption, accounted for about 1/3 of the total benthic aquatic debris. Our findings highlight the need to prioritise the fishing industry and change our fast-paced modern lifestyle. Citizen science initiatives, once data cleanup is conducted to overcome any bias, can provide valuable tools for better understanding and quantifying marine litter pollution. The outcomes gained can be leveraged to improve consumer awareness and inform environmental policies aimed at addressing aquatic litter pollution more effectively.

Development of a Community-Driven Waste Reduction Education and Action Program

Mismanaged and excessive waste has adverse effects on natural environments, economies, and human health. To address these waste issues, the Sustainability with Awareness and Prevention Solutions Program was developed and implemented in communities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast (USA) with the aim to provide the knowledge and actions needed to reduce or eliminate mismanaged and excessive waste. The program uses four educational modules focused on (1) microplastics in the watershed, (2) food waste, (3) single-use plastics, and (4) involvement in community prevention and removal programs. The program curriculum was written to meet education standards in Mississippi for 5th grade gifted, 6–8th grades, and 9–12th grades, and can be easily adapted to other states’ curriculums. The program provides material incentives to participants so knowledge learned can immediately be translated to behavior change. The program is continually being developed to find the best methods to implement behavior change at multiple scales.

The repurposing of single-use disposable plastic available in dermatology departments for genital dermatoscopy

The repurposing of single-use disposable plastic available in dermatology departments for genital dermatoscopy

Https://kiulj.kiu.ac.ug/assets/articles/1722434095_legal-frameworks-for-single-use-plastic-management-environmental-challenges-and-solutions.pdf

The use of polyethylene bags has been found to have more cons than pros. While it is a suitable choice of packaging for many, it contributes a lot to environmental pollution. Plastic bags contain harmful chemicals that when dumped, poisons the soil, water and everything in them. When incinerated, it is hazardous to the environment. Notwithstanding the hazard of plastic bags, it still remains the favorite choice of many, especially women in markets. This paper reviews the reasons for plastic bags being the women's favorite choice; which is largely connected to the economic living standard and long-term lifestyle of a large section of Nigerian women. The paper adopts the doctrinal methodology to consider the impact of plastic bags on the environment as well as human and animal life. Furthermore, the paper considers the role played by the environmental agencies and the existing laws and policies. It concludes by identifying a lack of awareness and proper education as a leading cause of the continued preference of plastic bags despite its multiple hazards. Finally, the paper recommends that a solution to the menace of plastic bags is to impose a ban on single-use plastic bags among others.

Effect of Plastic Ocean Pollution on Marine Life and Human Health in Brazil

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine effect of plastic ocean pollution on marine life and human health in Brazil. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study found that pervasive presence of plastic debris in Brazil's coastal waters threatens marine ecosystems, leading to entanglement, ingestion, and suffocation of marine species such as seabirds, turtles, and marine mammals. Furthermore, microplastics, resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items, pose insidious risks to marine life as they are ingested by plankton and subsequently enter the food chain, potentially accumulating in higher trophic levels, including fish consumed by humans. This not only disrupts marine biodiversity but also raises concerns about the safety and quality of seafood, impacting human health and food security in coastal communities. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Ecological theory, health impact assessment (HIA) theory & environmental justice theory may be used to anchor future studies on Effect of Plastic Ocean Pollution on Marine Life and Human Health in Brazil. Develop and deploy technologies that efficiently remove microplastics and larger debris from marine environments. This includes advancements in filtration systems for water treatment facilities and specialized equipment for collecting debris from ocean surfaces and shorelines. Enforce regulations limiting the production of non-essential single-use plastics, promoting the use of sustainable materials. Policy-makers should consider lifecycle assessments in the approval process of new plastic products.

The Lifestyle Patterns of the Rumahtiga Community Regarding Environmental Cleanliness of Rumahtiga Beach in Rumahtiga Village, Teluk Ambon Subdistrict

This study aims to describe the lifestyle patterns of the community related to beach cleanliness in Negeri Rumahtiga, Ambon City. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, questionnaires, and documentation. The study population includes all residents of Negeri Rumahtiga, with a sample of 20 individuals selected using purposive sampling techniques. The results show that community awareness of beach cleanliness is quite high, with the majority of respondents strongly agreeing (50%) and agreeing (50%) on the need to maintain cleanliness. The beach cleanliness initiative programs involving active community participation, support from local government, and educational campaigns on reducing single-use plastic have shown positive yet not optimal results. This study recommends enhancing waste management infrastructure, continuous education, and strengthening environmental care communities as strategic steps in maintaining beach cleanliness

Advancement of an Environmentally Friendly and Innovative Sustainable Rubber Wrap Film with Superior Sealing Properties.

Common kitchen wraps like plastic and aluminum foil create significant environmental burdens. Plastic wrap, typically made from non-renewable fossil fuels, often ends up in landfills for centuries, breaking down into harmful microplastics. Aluminum foil, while effective, requires a large amount of energy to produce, and recycling it at home can be impractical due to food residue. A promising new alternative, low-nitrosamine rubber wrap film, aims to reduce waste by offering a reusable option compared to traditional single-use plastic wrap. The film is environmentally friendly, durable, and effective in sealing containers and keeping food fresh or crispy. The raw materials used to make the product were studied, namely fresh and concentrated natural rubber latex. No nitrosamines were found in either the fresh or concentrated latex, which is important as nitrosamines are known to be carcinogenic. The absence of nitrosamines in the raw materials suggests that the universal rubber wrap film is safe for use. In this study, the rubber formulation and properties of rubber used to make rubber wrap film were studied. The content of additives affecting the rubber properties was varied to find the optimum rubber formulation for making rubber wrap films. The rubber formulation with the least amount of chemicals that met the following criteria was selected: tensile strength of at least 15 MPa, elongation at break of at least 600%, and nitrosamine content below 6 ppm. It was found experimentally that the optimum rubber formulation for making a translucent rubber film had 0.7 phr zinc oxide and 1.0 phr sulfur. Performance tests revealed the rubber wrap film's superior sealing capabilities. Its elasticity allows for a tighter fit on containers, effectively conforming to various shapes and creating an optimal seal compared to plastic wrap and aluminum foil. The results of this study provide valuable information for developing a universal rubber wrap film that is safe with low nitrosamines.

Biodegradable, UV-blocking, and antioxidant films from alkali-digested lignocellulosic residue fibers of switchgrass

The development of bio-friendly materials to replace single-use plastics is urgently needed. In this regard, cellulosic material from plants is a promising alternative. However, due to the risk of forest depletion, agricultural biomass stands out as a favorable choice. Toward this end, switchgrass, an underutilized grass, presents itself as a viable source of lignocellulose that can be turned into a bio-friendly material. Herein, lignocellulosic residue from switchgrass has been extracted using two different concentrations of NaOH (20% and 50% w/v), solubilized in aqueous ZnCl2 solution, and crosslinked with CaCl2 (200, 300, 400, and 500 mM) to prepare biodegradable films. The color, thickness and moisture, water solubility, water absorption, water vapor permeability, tensile strength and elongation, biodegradation, UV transmittance, and antioxidant activity of films have been studied. The films possess a high tensile strength of 14.7 MPa and elongation of 4.7%. They block UVB-radiation and hold antioxidant properties. They display good water vapor permeability of 1.410–1.6 × 10−11 gm−1s−1Pa−1 and lose over 80% of their weight at 30% soil moisture within 40 days. An increase in the CaCl2 amount decreased the water vapor permeability, elongation, UV transmittance, and biodegradation but increased the transparency, tensile strength and antioxidant property. Overall, films of alkali-digested lignocellulosic residue of switchgrass showed excellent potential to be used against lightweight plastics and support the circular economy.

Gluten migration from biodegradable food contact materials poses a risk to celiac disease patients

Due to the ban of certain single-use plastics in the European Union, food contact materials (FCM) from biobased and/or biodegradable polymers are increasingly being used. Some FCM are made from wheat or rye and therefore contain gluten, which is a food allergen and known to cause celiac disease. Legislation currently does not require allergen labelling on FCM and there is only some first information that gluten from FCM can migrate into gluten-free foods. Our aim was to analyze the extent of gluten migration from six different FCM into a variety of liquid and solid foods to assess the risk of exposure for wheat allergy and celiac disease patients. We show that the extent of gluten migration depended on the properties of the material, the liquid or solid food it comes into contact with and contact time. There was no clear effect of temperature or pH value. Of the six FCM studied, wheat bran-based plates had the highest potential to release gluten with concentrations of up to 203.0 mg/L of gluten in deionized water after 30 min. To protect patients, it is important to raise awareness of the risk of gluten migration from such FCM and help patients identify and avoid gluten-containing FCM. Further, legislation needs to be adapted urgently to include mandatory labelling of allergens on these biodegradable FCM.