BI PLASTICS
Environmental
Technology
PLASTICS VS. BIOPLASTICS
Conventional plastics are made from chemically bonding oil and gas molecules to form what is known as Polyethylene Terephthalate monomers. They are then put together into polymer chains and then molded and manufactured into plastics using high temperatures.
There are many disadvantages that factor into our ecosystem, especially in bodies of water (see diagram below) when it comes to plastics. Conventional plastics are prone to end up in landfills where water can absorb any water soluble compounds and produce a toxin known as Leachate, a liquid that drains from a landfill. This toxin can end up in groundwater and soil, affecting wildlife. Plastics do not biodegrade meaning it can take up to 1,000 years just to decompose. Here, very small bits of plastics (micro plastics) are created which can be easily eaten by animals such as fishes which can be transferred into our bodies if a person ever consumes a fish who has been harmed with these micro plastics.
Bioplastics on the other hand are derived from raw materials such as sugar cane and corn making them very high on starches. They are then put into bio-refineries to produce chemical compounds to make plastics. Most of the bioplastics produced are biodegradable meaning it will take much faster to decompose compared to ordinary plastics. The production also contributes to the environment as it limits the use of toxic greenhouse gases and fossil fuels.
Some advantages of bioplastics include the reduction of carbon footprint and non-biodegradable waste, having 60% of the material waste being organic, cheaper alternative, and many more.
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