While organizations fighting for environmental
presentation might not agree, plastic is one of the most important inventions
ever. Wikipedia defines it as “any of a wide range of synthetic or
semi-synthetic organic solids that are moulded . Plastics are typically organic
polymers of the molecular mass, but they often contain other substances. “The
origin of artificial plastics is not completely clear but polystyrene,
polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and rubber laid the foundation for its existence. Parkesine
Plastic |
and Bakelite are some of the early developments in the field while a number of
synthetically altered natural substances (chewing gum, for example) were coming
into use.
Plastic’s biggest advantage is its
non-biodegradability which made it a strong contender for us as wrappers and
containers. Various materials in the group with more strength and durability
found their use in other areas such as electric and heat insulation. Plastic is
extremely resistant to corrosion and can be easily moulded into any desirable
shape and hence qualifies for a cheap alternative to many household objects
such as plates, pipes, furniture etc.
Given its re usability and cheaper cost of
production. It’s easy to see why there’s so much of it around us. Since the
material is comparatively harder to decompose, the method of recycling it is
the key to a cleaner, greener plant. The improper ways by which plastic is
disposed has vilified it as an anti-nature product.