Remediation technology towards zero plastic pollution: Recent advance and perspectives

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Plastic pollution has escalated due to increased single-use plastics, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Plastic waste poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health through various toxicity pathways.
• Understanding plastic entry into the human body and its harmful effects is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and evaluate existing and advanced methods for plastic waste degradation.
• To explore the potential of plastic upcycling technologies and applications.
• To propose strategies for effective plastic waste management and sustainable recycling.

Main Methods:

• Review of physical, chemical, and biotic degradation techniques for plastic waste.
• Analysis of the roles of reactive oxygen species in chemical degradation and enzymes in biotic degradation.
• Assessment of innovative upcycling technologies, including solar-driven processes and carbon capture.

Main Results:

• Physical, chemical (utilizing reactive oxygen species), and biotic (enzyme-mediated) methods offer pathways for plastic degradation.
• Sunlight-driven upcycling technologies and novel applications in carbon capture present promising avenues for plastic recycling.
• Effective plastic sorting systems and engineering solutions are crucial for sustainable plastic management.

Conclusions:

• Plastic waste requires multifaceted solutions, including advanced degradation and innovative upcycling strategies.
• The integration of technologies like solar energy and carbon capture can enhance plastic recycling efficiency.
• Developing efficient waste management systems and engineering solutions is vital for mitigating plastic pollution.