This briefing document on the environmental impact of plastics helped me understand the many challenges caused by plastic waste and the potential solutions that could address them. While working on this topic, I learned a lot about the serious environmental issues that plastics cause, such as pollution, harm to wildlife, and microplastics contaminating the food chain. I also became aware of the impact plastic production has on climate change and the overflow of landfills because not all plastics can be recycled.

What stood out to me the most was the difficulty in eliminating plastics completely because they are so widely used in everyday products. The challenge isn’t just about banning plastics but finding sustainable alternatives that are just as practical, affordable, and safe. I also learned about different types of plastic, like PVC and LDPE, which are particularly harmful because they are hard to recycle or release toxins when burned.

The solutions we explored, such as turning plastic into fuel or energy, were interesting because they offer ways to manage waste instead of simply eliminating it. I also learned about the idea of a circular economy, where products are reused and recycled instead of thrown away, which could help reduce waste in the long run.

Overall, this project helped me see the complexity of the plastic problem and the need for long-term, sustainable solutions. It also reinforced the importance of balancing environmental protection with practical needs in our daily lives.