ABSTRACT
Plastic waste increases due to widespread use. Disposed plastic turns into waste, worsening pollution. Plastic does not biodegrade easily; it can take over 500 years to decompose, leading to environmental accumulation and crisis. Ramifications of plastic waste are significant, causing extensive harm. Plastic waste is a pressing environmental concern, requiring efforts from all sectors. There are various causes, consequences, and solutions to reduce plastic waste. Potential solutions for plastic pollution include the R4 framework: Reuse, Reduce, Replace, and Recycle. Each product has its own end-of-life stage; certain components can be salvaged for reuse. Waste materials are recovered and repurposed through recycling. Plastic recycling aids in diminishing pollution and conserving resources. Recycling involves collecting and processing materials into new products. Enhancing recycling systems is crucial for effective waste management. Reusing plastic items reduces waste and environmental footprint. Curbing single-use plastics and advocating for alternatives can alleviate plastic waste. Utilizing bioplastics from renewable sources is a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. Collective action is necessary to address plastic waste. Strengthening waste management, embracing extended producer responsibility, and advocating for circular economy practices are pivotal measures. Encouraging reduced plastic content in products is essential. Global regulations aim to tackle plastic pollution and protect communities from its effects.
AUTHOR AFFILIATIONS
Department of Zoology and Environmental Sciences, Punjabi University, Patiala, India
CITATION
Bala M and Kaur M (2025) Reviewing Sustainable Solutions to Plastic Waste: Strategies for a Cleaner Planet. Environmental Science Archives 4(2): 639-649.
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