The Challenge

The greatest challenge 

We use plastic in computers, clothes, cell phones, TVs, aircraft, packaging, building and construction, and even paint. There are currently no satisfactory replacements for plastic, because of its unique properties: it’s inexpensive, durable, easy to produce in bulk and easy to shape – properties that wood, metal and glass are unable to match. We depend on plastic and its amazing properties.

The greatest challenge is that the very same properties that make plastic great to use, also make it a huge threat to the environment. Plastic doesn’t decompose, and it’s rarely recycled or reused. Plastic waste comes in many forms (there are approximately 50 different types of plastic molecules), and the plastic types are often mixed after use. Because of this, we are only able to recycle around 10% worldwide.

The first problem is that used plastic is virtually worthless. We collect steel and other metals because they can easily be melted down and reused. Mixed plastic waste, however, has no reasonable recycling value today.

The second problem is that plastic doesn’t decompose. While food waste decomposes and disappears, plastic waste builds up. The third problem is that plastic is almost impossible to recover once it enters the natural cycle. Is there really no solution?