Plastic Recycling and Microplastic Pollution
The potential for a plastic recycling facility to release microplastic pollution and possible filtration remediation effectiveness. 'Recycling processes creates microplastic particles in wash water' (Journal of Hazardous Materials Advances) >
Plastics can be Digested by Microbes at Low Temperatures
'Discovery of plastic-degrading microbial strains isolated from the alpine and Arctic terrestrial plastisphere' (Frontiers of Science) >
Plastics and Human Health
'The goals of this Minderoo-Monaco Commission on Plastics and Human Health are to comprehensively examine plastics’ impacts across their life cycle on: (1) human health and well-being; (2) the global environment, especially the ocean; (3) the economy; (4) vulnerable populations—the poor, minorities, and the world’s children. On the basis of this examination, the Commission offers science-based recommendations designed to support development of a Global Plastics Treaty, protect human health, and save lives.' (The Annals of Human health) >
Circular Economy and Plastic Life-Cycle Issues
'the Plastic Pollution Treaty should consider the value of explicit and implicit inclusion of circular economy provisions so as to address the potential for technological growth and change.' (IUCN Centre for Conservation Action, iucn.org) >
Abiotic Plastic Leaching
'Ocean acidification and plastic pollution are considered as potential planetary boundary threats for which crossing certain thresholds could be very harmful for the world’s societies and ecosystems well-being' (Science of the Total Environment journal) >
Commercialisation of Process for Recycling Plastics
Commercialisation of a proven process for recycling Plastics (hydrothermal liquefaction technology). 'By utilising the enormous amount of biomass residues and End-of-Life Plastic that go to landfill or incineration each year, we can create high-value, low-carbon products that reduce our reliance on fossil resources, and reduce emissions in the process.' (Licella, Sydney) >
Reusable Milk Kegs
The Udder Way - Reusable Milk Kegs. 'a milk keg system that slides into existing processes. It’s great for business and even better for the planet' (The Udder Way, Launceston, Tasmania) >
Shipping Plastic Waste Overseas
'Many countries ship plastic waste overseas. How much of the world’s waste is traded, and how big is its role in the pollution of our oceans?' (Our World in Data, UK) >
Plastics Treaty: Update After UNEA 5.2
Momentum Towards a Global Plastics Treaty: Update After UNEA 5.2 'Six years ago, a legally binding global treaty to end plastic pollution seemed impossible. But last month, the resumed fifth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA 5.2) concluded with the historic passage of a mandate to do just that.' (Center for International Environmental Law, Washington DC) >
Bacteria can Remove Plastic Pollution
Natural clean-up: Bacteria can remove plastic pollution from lakes. 'The bacteria break down the carbon compounds in plastic to use as food for their growth.' (Science Daily, USA) >