Advantages and Disadvantages of Plastic

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 04:57 PM IST

Plastic is a synthetic or semi-synthetic polymer having unique properties. These materials are used in day-to-day life in a variety of applications. These plastics can be broadly categorized into 2 types, i.e., thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Polyethylene, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and PS (polystyrene) are some examples of plastics used for making plastic bottles, pipes, containers, etc. In this article, students will understand the various advantages and disadvantages of plastics.

Note: Plastic synonym is elastic.

Advantages of plastics

There are many advantages of plastics. Some of them include

Many plastics have a long, reusable lifespan
Plastics must not be considered a throwaway or a product for single use. Many varieties of this substance have a longer life period than or the same as other materials. A well-maintained PVC pipe has a service capacity for up to a century. The average life expectancy of the plastics used in building is 35 years. This is one of the main advantages of plastic.
The processes of plastic manufacture compare favourably with many others
Although the plastics production process can be energy-intensive using fossil fuels, it is nevertheless an environmentally friendly resource in comparison with other materials. Methods of recycling can sometimes change the comparison. The advantage remains that when frequent reuse occurs, plastics can contribute. This is another advantage of plastic.
Plastics are space-saving in facilities
Although it takes a significant length of time for plastic materials to crumble into a site, the quantity of space plastics occupy in these areas of trash disposal is modest compared with other products. The volume of paper products is seven times higher. This includes another advantage of plastic.
Due to decomposition, methane does not build-up
Organic compounds release greenhouse gases when they are decomposed. This approach often focuses on carbon dioxide but is extremely hazardous to methane emitted. As a reflecting atmospheric component, methane is up to 20 times more effective than CO2. When the gas breaks down, plastics do not release it, therefore the entire life-path impact of the consequence is easier to calculate. This constitutes another main advantage of plastics.
The safe mode of delivery of all required products is plastics
Since plastic keeps the product safe, it is best to use plastic for water-containing bottles and other drinks. People use the material to get vulnerable people around the world swiftly and economically. This is the main merit of plastics.
Plastics are an inexpensive material.
The plastics industry plays a key role in the world economy
The world's plastics business generates more than 1 trillion dollars every year.

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Disadvantages of plastics

There are many disadvantages to plastics

Typically, plastics are created from non-renewable resources While plastic initial materials originated from plant-based fibres, most of the products today produced are based on fossil fuels. It is usually petroleum, but natural gas can also be used to produce this product. About $4 \%$ of these fuels continue to manufacture new goods directly into the plastics sector. If you look at the amount of resources used during the process of refinement and the predicted increase in demand, the cost of plastics to fossil fuels might approach $20 %$ in the next decade. This is the main disadvantage of plastic.
The pollution in the world's waters is predominantly plastic Plastic comprises up to $80 \%$ of all marine waste. This problem is caused by marine and terrestrial sources, which often build up in broad open areas where tides come together. The problem concerns us finding rubbish on land, on beaches, and even in freshwater sources. Stirrers, bottles, cables, food wrappers, and plastic straws are some of the items that are most common. At a cost of 5 per kg, plastic pollution is removed from sea surface water, while the reutilization of this product is only $\$ 0.30$. This is why the efforts to clean up marine environments are spearheaded by non-profitable agencies. This is another disadvantage of plastic.
Multiple economic costs could result from plastic pollution
Pollution from plastic packaging itself causes the global economy an annual loss of over $\$ 80$ billion. It accounts for around $50 \%$ of all trash from this industry, and virtually any other industry does this in any form. Building and plastics contribute to $16 \%$ of plastic use, whereas textiles account for approximately $15 \%$. As many of the goods are not recycled, more of them are likely to alternately progress to waste streams.
Unable to infinitely recycle plastic products
Metals may be repeatedly recycled into a diversity of different items due to the qualities of the material. This is not the chance given by plastics. Only a handful of times can people retrieve or reuse it before it loses integrity and quality. This signifies that this product is more likely to be dumped or burned down in a landfill. Some plastic products cannot be recycled and hence the impact of this disadvantage might be further enhanced. More than 93 billion plastic objects are not affected annually, therefore they come into our waste stream. This is a demerit of plastic.

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Plastic Pollution

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NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry Chapter 14 Environmental Chemistry	NCERT Notes Class 11th Chemistry
NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Chemistry Solutions Chapter 14 Environmental Chemistry	NCERT Notes Class 12th Chemistry
NCERT notes Class 11 Chemistry Chapter 14 Environmental Chemistry	NCERT Notes For All Subjects

Some Solved Examples

Example 1: Making new containers from recycled materials like crushed glass helps to

1) Conserve materials
2) Save fuel
3) (correct) Both of these
4) None of these

Solution

Waste management -

Organic waste – composted or employed in a biogas plant.

Paper, plastic, and metals – recycled

Agricultural waste- manufacturing of paper, hardboard, animal feed, etc.

Hence, the answer is the option (3).

Example 2: Which of the following is not a source of water pollution?

1) Agricultural runoff
2) Industrial discharge
3) (correct) Use of environmentally friendly products
4) Plastic Overuse

Solution

The use of environmentally friendly products helps in preventing water pollution. Agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and domestic sewage are all major sources of water pollution.

Hence, the answer is the option (3).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the benefits of plastic?

The plastic's qualities are corrosion and chemical resistance. They have low thermal expansion coefficients and are strongly thermal and electrically insulated. Plastic advantages are particularly waterproof, and have good adhesive properties. The production of plastic is solid, good and low cost.

2. How are the adverse effects of plastics?

Toxic chemicals leach from plastic and are found in almost all blood and tissue. Tumors, birth abnormalities, impaired immunity, endocrine system malfunction and other conditions are associated with their exposure.

3. How hazardous is plastic to humans?

Human bodies absorb chemicals on plastics. Any of these compounds have been identified as altering hormones or other potential health impacts. Wildlife can be injured or killed by plastic, chemical contamination and devoured by marine animals.

4. What is plastic?

Plastics are high molecular mass manmade carbon polymers and other elements. Long monomer chains are polymers. Plastics can also be mixed and transformed into solid objects. It's utilized in boxes, packing, bags, switches, tools, power, wires, fireproof fabric etc.

5. What are the drawbacks of plastics?

Plastics are like a sponge, absorbing various hazardous substances and contaminants transported from the water. The disadvantages of plastic bags is that they contribute to a huge volume of solid waste. When we break down, we release these into the atmosphere as well as the chemicals needed to give them their properties, such as colour.

6. Is plastic biodegradable?

Most of the plastics break down into very tiny particles known as microplastics. These are not biodegradable.

7. What are green plastics?

These are plastics with a reduced or minimized environmental impact when they are produced, used, recycled, upcycled, disposed of, when they decompose, etc

8. Can we replace plastic?

Yes, the Government is taking steps towards replacing the plastic with biodegradable materials.

9. Plastic is made up of which polymers?

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE or PET), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), etc.

10. What are the main advantages of using plastic materials?

The main advantages of plastic include its durability, versatility, low cost, and lightweight nature. Plastics are resistant to corrosion, can be molded into various shapes, are inexpensive to produce, and are much lighter than alternative materials like metal or glass. These properties make plastics ideal for a wide range of applications, from packaging to construction.

11. How does the use of plastics contribute to energy conservation?

Plastics contribute to energy conservation in several ways. Their lightweight nature reduces fuel consumption in transportation. Plastic insulation in buildings improves energy efficiency. Additionally, the production of plastics often requires less energy compared to alternative materials like metal or glass, further conserving energy resources.

12. What role do plastics play in food preservation and safety?

Plastics play a crucial role in food preservation and safety. They provide airtight and waterproof packaging that extends the shelf life of food products, reducing spoilage and food waste. Plastic packaging also protects food from contamination during transportation and storage. Moreover, plastic containers are often lightweight and shatterproof, making them safer to handle compared to glass alternatives.

13. What are some alternatives to traditional plastics, and how effective are they?

Alternatives to traditional plastics include biodegradable plastics, bioplastics made from renewable resources, and natural materials like bamboo or paper. While these alternatives can reduce environmental impact, their effectiveness varies. Biodegradable plastics may not decompose in all environments, and bioplastics can still contribute to pollution if not disposed of properly. Natural alternatives may have limitations in durability or functionality compared to traditional plastics.

14. How does plastic recycling work, and what are its limitations?

Plastic recycling involves collecting, sorting, cleaning, and reprocessing plastic waste into new products. The process typically includes mechanical recycling, where plastics are melted and remolded, or chemical recycling, where plastics are broken down into their chemical components. Limitations include contamination of recycling streams, the degradation of plastic quality through repeated recycling, and the economic challenges of recycling compared to producing new plastic.

15. What makes plastic a problematic material for the environment?

Plastic is problematic for the environment primarily due to its non-biodegradable nature. Most synthetic plastics can take hundreds to thousands of years to decompose, leading to long-term pollution. When discarded, plastics accumulate in landfills and oceans, harming wildlife and ecosystems. Additionally, the production of plastics relies on fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

16. How do microplastics form, and why are they a concern?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size. They form when larger plastic items break down due to environmental factors like sunlight, wind, and waves. Microplastics are a concern because they can easily enter food chains, being ingested by marine life and eventually humans. Their small size makes them difficult to remove from the environment, and they can absorb and concentrate toxic chemicals.

17. How does plastic pollution affect marine ecosystems?

Plastic pollution severely impacts marine ecosystems by entangling marine animals, being ingested by sea creatures, and destroying habitats. When marine animals ingest plastic, it can lead to malnutrition, starvation, and death. Plastics also leach harmful chemicals into the water, affecting the overall health of marine ecosystems. Additionally, plastic debris can transport invasive species to new areas, disrupting local ecosystems.

18. How does the production of plastics impact climate change?

The production of plastics contributes to climate change in several ways. Most plastics are derived from fossil fuels, and their production releases greenhouse gases. The extraction and transportation of raw materials for plastic production also contribute to carbon emissions. Additionally, when plastics are incinerated at the end of their life cycle, they release more greenhouse gases, further exacerbating climate change.

19. What is the difference between biodegradable and non-biodegradable plastics?

Biodegradable plastics can be broken down by microorganisms into natural substances like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass within a reasonable timeframe. Non-biodegradable plastics, which make up most conventional plastics, do not break down easily and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. The key difference lies in their chemical structure and the ability of microorganisms to decompose them.

20. How does plastic waste management differ between developed and developing countries?

Plastic waste management varies significantly between developed and developing countries. Developed countries often have more advanced recycling infrastructure and stricter regulations on waste disposal. In contrast, many developing countries lack adequate waste management systems, leading to higher rates of plastic pollution in the environment. Additionally, some developed countries export their plastic waste to developing nations, further complicating the issue.

21. What is the concept of "extended producer responsibility" in relation to plastic waste?

Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach that makes manufacturers responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, including disposal and recycling. In relation to plastic waste, EPR encourages companies to design products with easier recycling in mind, use more recycled content, and invest in recycling infrastructure. This approach aims to shift the burden of waste management from consumers and governments to the producers themselves.

22. What are some innovative technologies being developed to address plastic pollution?

Innovative technologies to address plastic pollution include advanced recycling methods like chemical recycling, which breaks plastics down to their chemical components for reuse. Plastic-eating bacteria and enzymes are being researched for their potential to biodegrade plastics. Ocean cleanup technologies, such as floating barriers and autonomous collection systems, are being developed to remove plastic from marine environments. Additionally, new materials are being created as alternatives to traditional plastics, such as algae-based plastics and edible packaging materials.

23. What are the challenges in accurately measuring and tracking global plastic pollution?

Accurately measuring and tracking global plastic pollution presents several challenges. The widespread distribution of plastic waste across various environments (oceans, rivers, land) makes comprehensive data collection difficult. Microplastics are particularly challenging to quantify due to their small size. Different methodologies used across studies can lead to inconsistent data. Additionally, the

24. What is the "Great Pacific Garbage Patch," and how does it relate to plastic pollution?

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a large area in the North Pacific Ocean where marine debris, primarily plastic, has accumulated due to ocean currents. It's not a solid mass but a region with a higher concentration of plastic particles. This phenomenon illustrates the global scale of plastic pollution and its tendency to concentrate in certain ocean areas, impacting marine life and ecosystems far from the pollution sources.

25. How do plastics affect human health?

Plastics can affect human health in various ways. Some plastic additives, like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormonal systems. Microplastics ingested through food or water may carry harmful chemicals or pathogens. The production of plastics also releases toxic substances that can impact air and water quality, potentially leading to respiratory issues and other health problems in nearby communities.

26. What is the concept of "plastic footprint," and why is it important?

The "plastic footprint" refers to the amount of plastic waste an individual, organization, or country generates. It's an important concept because it helps quantify the impact of plastic consumption on the environment. Understanding one's plastic footprint can lead to more conscious consumption habits and encourage the adoption of sustainable alternatives, ultimately reducing plastic pollution.

27. How do plastics contribute to the concept of "throwaway culture"?

Plastics have significantly contributed to the "throwaway culture" by enabling the production of cheap, disposable items. The durability and low cost of plastics have led to the prevalence of single-use items like packaging, utensils, and bags, which are used briefly and then discarded. This culture of disposability has increased waste generation and environmental pollution, as many of these items are not recycled or properly disposed of.

28. What are microbeads, and why have they been banned in many countries?

Microbeads are tiny plastic particles less than 1mm in size, often used in personal care products like exfoliants and toothpaste. They have been banned in many countries because they easily pass through water filtration systems and end up in waterways and oceans. Once in the environment, they can be ingested by marine life, entering the food chain and potentially causing harm to ecosystems and human health.

29. How do plastics impact urban flooding and drainage systems?

Plastics can significantly impact urban flooding and drainage systems by clogging sewers and storm drains. When plastic waste accumulates in these systems, it reduces their capacity to handle water flow, leading to increased flooding during heavy rains. This problem is particularly acute in areas with poor waste management practices. Additionally, plastics in drainage systems can break down into microplastics, further polluting water bodies.

30. What role does consumer behavior play in plastic pollution?

Consumer behavior plays a crucial role in plastic pollution. Choices in purchasing, using, and disposing of plastic products directly impact the amount of plastic waste generated. Consumers can influence the market by opting for products with less plastic packaging, using reusable items, and properly disposing of or recycling plastic waste. Increased awareness and changing consumer preferences can also drive businesses to adopt more sustainable practices.

31. How does plastic pollution affect terrestrial ecosystems?

While often associated with marine environments, plastic pollution also significantly impacts terrestrial ecosystems. Plastics in soil can alter soil structure, affect water retention, and impact plant growth. Animals may ingest or become entangled in plastic waste, leading to injury or death. Microplastics in soil can be taken up by plants and enter the food chain. Additionally, plastics in landfills can leach chemicals into the surrounding soil and groundwater.

32. What are bioplastics, and how do they compare to traditional plastics in terms of environmental impact?

Bioplastics are plastics made from renewable biomass sources, such as vegetable fats, corn starch, or agricultural byproducts. Compared to traditional plastics, bioplastics often have a lower carbon footprint during production and can be biodegradable. However, their environmental impact depends on factors like production methods, disposal conditions, and land use for growing raw materials. While potentially more eco-friendly, bioplastics still require proper waste management to avoid pollution.

33. How does plastic pollution contribute to the spread of invasive species?

Plastic pollution can contribute to the spread of invasive species by providing a means of transportation across bodies of water. Floating plastic debris can carry organisms, eggs, or seeds over long distances, introducing them to new ecosystems where they may become invasive. This "rafting" effect can disrupt local ecosystems and biodiversity, as the introduced species may outcompete native organisms or alter habitat conditions.

34. What is the relationship between plastic production and fossil fuel consumption?

There is a strong relationship between plastic production and fossil fuel consumption. Most plastics are derived from petrochemicals, which are byproducts of oil and gas production. The plastics industry is one of the largest consumers of fossil fuels outside of transportation and energy generation. As global plastic production increases, so does the demand for fossil fuels, contributing to resource depletion and greenhouse gas emissions.

35. How do plastics impact the aesthetics of natural environments, and why is this important?

Plastics can significantly impact the aesthetics of natural environments by littering landscapes, beaches, and waterways. This visual pollution degrades the beauty of natural areas, potentially affecting tourism and recreational activities. Beyond aesthetics, visible plastic waste can also influence people's perception of environmental health and their connection to nature. This impact on aesthetics is important as it can affect public awareness and motivation to address plastic pollution.

36. What are nurdles, and why are they an environmental concern?

Nurdles are small plastic pellets about the size of a lentil, used as raw material in the manufacturing of plastic products. They are an environmental concern because they often spill during transportation and production processes, ending up in waterways and oceans. Due to their small size, nurdles are easily ingested by marine life, causing physical harm and potentially transferring toxic chemicals. Their presence in the environment also contributes to microplastic pollution.

37. How does plastic waste impact waste management systems and landfills?

Plastic waste poses significant challenges to waste management systems and landfills. Its non-biodegradable nature means it occupies landfill space for extended periods. Plastics can also interfere with the decomposition of biodegradable materials in landfills. In waste management systems, plastics can contaminate recycling streams if not properly sorted, reducing the efficiency and effectiveness of recycling processes. Additionally, lightweight plastics can be blown away from landfills, contributing to environmental litter.

38. What is the concept of "plastic leakage," and how does it relate to ocean pollution?

"Plastic leakage" refers to plastic waste that escapes from waste management systems and ends up in the environment, particularly in oceans. This leakage can occur at various points, from improper disposal by consumers to inadequate waste collection and management infrastructure. Understanding plastic leakage is crucial for addressing ocean pollution, as it helps identify key intervention points to prevent plastics from entering marine environments.

39. How do plastics interact with other pollutants in the environment?

Plastics can interact with other pollutants in complex ways. They can absorb and concentrate toxic chemicals present in water, such as pesticides and industrial pollutants. When marine organisms ingest these contaminated plastic particles, they are exposed to higher concentrations of these toxins. Additionally, as plastics break down, they can release additives and chemicals into the environment, potentially interacting with and exacerbating the effects of other pollutants.

40. What role do plastics play in the circular economy concept?

In the circular economy concept, plastics play a complex role. The ideal is to design plastic products for reuse, recycling, or biodegradation, minimizing waste and resource consumption. This involves improving recycling technologies, developing more sustainable plastic alternatives, and rethinking product design to facilitate easier recycling. However, the current prevalence of single-use plastics and challenges in recycling certain types of plastics present significant obstacles to achieving a truly circular plastic economy.

41. How does plastic pollution affect global food security?

Plastic pollution can affect global food security in several ways. In marine environments, plastic ingestion by fish and other seafood sources can reduce their populations and potentially introduce toxins into the human food chain. In agriculture, plastic pollution in soil can affect crop yields and soil health. Microplastics in water sources used for irrigation can also impact food production. Additionally, plastic packaging, while often beneficial for food preservation, contributes to waste if not properly managed.

42. How does the presence of plastics in the environment affect wildlife behavior?

The presence of plastics in the environment can significantly alter wildlife behavior. Marine animals may mistake plastic debris for food, leading to changes in feeding patterns and malnutrition. Plastics can also affect nesting behaviors, with some birds incorporating plastic into their nests, potentially harming chicks. In aquatic environments, the presence of microplastics can alter the behavior of small organisms, affecting their movement and feeding habits. These behavioral changes can have cascading effects throughout ecosystems.

43. What is the concept of "plastic credits," and how might they impact plastic pollution?

Plastic credits are similar to carbon credits but focus on plastic waste. They represent a quantity of plastic waste collected or recycled. Companies can purchase these credits to offset their plastic footprint. The concept aims to fund plastic waste reduction and recycling initiatives, particularly in areas lacking proper waste management infrastructure. While plastic credits could potentially drive investment in waste management and recycling, critics argue they might not address the root cause of plastic pollution and could be seen as a form of "greenwashing."

44. How do different types of plastics vary in their environmental impact?

Different types of plastics vary in their environmental impact based on factors like durability, recyclability, and the chemicals they contain or release. For example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is widely recycled, while expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) is rarely recycled and persists in the environment. Some plastics, like PVC, can release harmful chemicals when degrading. Biodegradable plastics may have less long-term impact but can still cause short-term pollution if not disposed of properly. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed decisions about plastic use and disposal.

45. What is the relationship between plastic pollution and environmental justice?

The relationship between plastic pollution and environmental justice is significant. Often, the negative impacts of plastic production, waste management, and pollution disproportionately affect low-income communities and communities of color. These communities are more likely to be located near plastic production facilities or waste disposal sites, exposing them to higher levels of pollutants. Additionally, developing countries often bear the brunt of plastic waste exported from wealthier nations. Addressing plastic pollution thus becomes an issue of social and environmental justice, requiring equitable solutions and policies.

46. How does plastic pollution impact the tourism industry?

Plastic pollution can significantly impact the tourism industry, particularly in coastal and marine destinations. Littered beaches and polluted waters can deter tourists, leading to economic losses for communities dependent on tourism. The presence of visible plastic waste can damage the reputation of tourist destinations, affecting their long-term viability. Additionally, efforts to clean up plastic pollution can incur substantial costs for local governments and businesses in tourist areas. The impact extends beyond aesthetics, as plastic pollution can also harm wildlife and ecosystems that are often key attractions for tourists.