T.S. Athulya and J.K. Reshma
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a global crisis, affecting diverse ecosystems from deserts to oceans and posing ecological and health risks. The excessive production and use of non-sustainable plastics have resulted in the creation of massive quantities of plastic waste, including microplastics. These pollutants have infiltrated the environment and food chain, endangering human health. Different categories of plastic pollution, such as macroplastics, microplastics, and nanoplastics, have varying impacts and associated risks. Managing plastic waste is a pressing global concern, with low value plastics like Multi-Layered Plastic (MLP) and soft plastics often overlooked. Due to their complex composition and recycling challenges, these materials frequently pollute waterways and oceans. Auditing low-value plastics is crucial for understanding the extent of this issue, its environmental consequences, and the feasibility of recycling solutions. Such audits inform policy decisions, recycling strategies, and conservation efforts, vital for mitigating the impact of low value plastics on the environment. Plastic pollution demands immediate attention and sustainable management to safeguard our planetâs health.