• Bookmarks

    Bookmarks

  • Concepts

    Concepts

  • Activity

    Activity

  • Courses

    Courses


Polymer reprocessing involves the recovery and reuse of plastic materials through mechanical, chemical, or thermal methods, helping to reduce environmental impact and conserve resources. It is a critical component of the circular economy, aiming to extend the lifecycle of polymers and minimize waste.
A circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources through principles like reuse, repair, refurbishment, and recycling. It contrasts with a traditional linear economy, which follows a 'take, make, dispose' model, by promoting sustainable practices that extend the lifecycle of products and materials.
Mechanical recycling is a process that involves the physical reprocessing of plastic waste into new products without altering the polymer's chemical structure. It is a crucial component in reducing plastic pollution and conserving resources, though it faces challenges with material contamination and degradation in quality.
Chemical recycling is a process that breaks down plastic waste into its original monomers or other useful chemicals, allowing for the creation of new plastics or other products without degrading material quality. It offers a potential solution to the limitations of mechanical recycling by handling mixed or contaminated plastics that are otherwise difficult to recycle.
Thermal recycling is a waste management process that converts waste materials into usable heat, electricity, or fuel through combustion or other thermal processes. This method not only reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills but also recovers energy that can be utilized in various applications, thereby contributing to resource conservation and energy efficiency.
Sustainability is the practice of meeting current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs, emphasizing a balance between economic growth, environmental health, and social well-being. It involves adopting strategies and practices that promote resource efficiency, reduce waste, and support long-term ecological balance.
Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a systematic method for evaluating the environmental impacts associated with all stages of a product's life, from raw material extraction through to disposal. It provides a comprehensive framework to identify opportunities for environmental improvement and supports decision-making for sustainable development.
Material recovery is the process of extracting valuable materials from waste streams, aiming to minimize environmental impact and promote resource efficiency. It plays a crucial role in the circular economy by reducing the need for virgin materials and decreasing landfill usage.
Waste management involves the collection, transportation, processing, recycling, and disposal of waste materials to minimize their impact on the environment and human health. Effective Waste management strategies are crucial for sustainable development and require the integration of technology, policy, and community engagement.
Environmental impact refers to the effect that human activities and natural events have on the environment, encompassing changes to ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources. Understanding and mitigating these impacts is crucial for sustainable development and the preservation of ecological balance.
3