A comprehensive review on Single-Use Plastics (SUPs): Challenges and sustainable solutions

Shashikant Kumar, Roshni Bajaj, Jiwan Singh

Department of Environmental Science, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow-226025, India

Cite this article: Kumar, S., Bajaj, R., Singh, J., 2024. A comprehensive review on Single-Use Plastics (SUP’s): Challenges and sustainable solutions. J. Appl. Sci. Innov. Technol. 3 (2), 60-70.

Highlights

  • Despite their widespread use, single-use plastics (SUP) are harmful for the environment.
  • Traditional SUP industrial management technicians have some drawbacks.
  • Chemical recycling and engineering industry enterprises have potential for new enrolments.

Abstract

This review compiles recent studies on single-use plastics (SUPs), including their widespread use, environmental impacts, and management techniques. Plastic, sometimes referred to as “the material with 1,000 uses,” is so versatile that SUPs are essential to modern life because of their low production cost, flexibility, durability, and light weight. However, SUPs contribute to pollution from plastic waste, which may harms ecosystems, wildlife, and increases greenhouse gas emissions during its burning, therefore SUP’s have emerged as a major global environmental problem. SUP waste management is difficult, and existing methods such as recycling and disposal have serious drawbacks. This paper critically evaluates conventional waste management strategies and identifies new, more sustainable alternatives such as chemical recycling and circular economy models. Plastic bags, recycling initiatives and promotion of biodegradable materials are important strategies to tackle SUP waste. To reduce the environmental impact of SUP, legislative changes and public awareness are considered crucial. Further studies are recommended to focus on developing recycling technology, strengthening international regulations and promoting sustainable consumer habits. This article provides an in-depth analysis of SUP waste management, emphasizing the need for creative approaches and concerted efforts to solve this persistent environmental issue.

Keywords: Waste management; Recycling; Circular economy; Environmental impact; SUP

Scope: Environmental Science

 

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