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How can plastics impact the environment?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

The other day, I read this piece somewhere. It was all about how engineers are working to create new sorts of plastics that are much more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Some of these bioplastics are derived from renewable plant sources rather than fossil fuels. Others are meant to degrade after use rather than remain as pollutants indefinitely. It sounds quite groundbreaking to me. How much of an impact will advances in plastic engineering like this have on our environmental crises? Are we talking about a game changer that might significantly reduce waste? Or is it more of a small step in the right direction? When it comes to solutions that appear to be too good to be true, I tend to be skeptical. However, replacing traditional plastics with greener alternatives appears to have the potential to be massive if well executed.

Kindly suggest.

Answered by Dr. Sugandh Garg

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Answer:

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

One of the key benefits of bioplastics is their ability to degrade more simply and faster than conventional plastics. This could help limit the amount of plastic garbage that ends up in landfills and oceans. Some bioplastics are compostable, resulting in a lower carbon footprint.

They contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from plastic manufacture.

Many bioplastics are developed to avoid hazardous compounds like Bisphenol A.

Not all bioplastics are as strong, flexible, or durable as ordinary plastics, which can limit their application. Bioplastics may cost more to make than traditional plastics. Proper disposal is crucial for their eco-friendliness. Bioplastics alone cannot address the environmental challenge. They must be part of a multifaceted approach that involves lowering overall plastic consumption, improving waste management systems, and increasing recycling.

Best of luck.

Let me know if you have any other concerns.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sowmiya D
Published At July 1, 2024
Reviewed At July 1, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sowmiya is a dedicated Dentist with valuable clinical experience in providing quality oral healthcare. She has sound expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of dental conditions with precision and care. Her areas of expertise include preventive and restorative dentistry, cosmetic dental treatments, and oral hygiene management aimed at maintaining healthy teeth and a confident smile.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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