Plastics Intro | Earthrise

Introduction

The items we will discuss require manufacture of polymers from synthetically produced monomers. These are often derivatives of the petrochemical industry, and there is considerable concern that the world's crude oil resources may be exhausted within the foreseeable future. However, currently this petrochemical industry accounts for only 3-5% of the total global oil usage.

In order to increase the sustainability of this industry, it is important that the recycling of plastics becomes as efficient as possible. Current usage of thermoplastics - those that are able to be melted and reformed in new shapes - is particularly important to the recycling effort. It is therefore highly convenient that the majority of students' plastic needs are supplied through thermoplastics.

If students recognise the need to recycle their plastic goods, and the need to buy reliable, long-lasting instruments, they will be able to make a considerable difference to their collective ecological footprints.