GC&E

docx

School

Centennial College *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

121

Subject

Chemistry

Date

Jan 9, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by ChiefRaven4006

Being introduced to the basics of Organic Chemistry and its applications in everyday life, focus specifically on plastic materials. Describe your personal and social responsibility in recycling of these materials and recommend some initiatives that will have an impact on the local, national and global level. Organic Chemistry serves as the cornerstone for understanding the composition and applications of various materials in our daily lives. One of the most prevalent and concerning applications is found in plastic materials. This essay explores the personal and social responsibilities associated with recycling plastic materials and proposes initiatives that can have a meaningful impact on local, national, and global levels. Plastics, omnipresent in modern life, are derived from organic compounds through intricate chemical processes (Childs, Hayes, & O’Dwyer, 2015). Understanding the basics of Organic Chemistry unveils the structure and composition of plastics, primarily comprising carbon and hydrogen. The polymerization reactions create the versatile materials that have become integral to our daily routines (Childs, Hayes, & O’Dwyer, 2015). As someone introduced to the fundamentals of Organic Chemistry, my personal responsibility in plastic recycling is paramount. Acknowledging the environmental impact of plastic waste, I commit to conscientious disposal practices. This involves separating recyclables, reducing single-use plastic consumption, and opting for eco-friendly alternatives. By aligning personal habits with sustainable choices, I contribute to a culture of responsible plastic usage. On a social scale, fostering awareness and initiating local programs are pivotal. Community- driven recycling initiatives can be established to educate residents about the significance of proper plastic disposal. Utilizing social media platforms or local events to share information on the environmental consequences of plastic pollution can instigate a sense of responsibility within the community. At the national level, advocating for comprehensive recycling policies is crucial. Governments should prioritize investments in recycling infrastructure and technology. Additionally, supporting research into sustainable alternatives and incentivizing businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of plastics (Wichai-utcha & Chavalparit, 2019). Recognizing the global nature of the plastic pollution challenge, international collaboration is essential. Nations should come together to set standardized recycling protocols and share best practices. Encouraging research and development on a global scale can lead to breakthroughs in plastic alternatives and recycling technologies.

In conclusion, understanding the organic chemistry behind plastics empowers individuals to take responsibility for their impact on the environment. By adopting sustainable practices on a personal level and actively participating in local, national, and global initiatives, we can collectively address the challenges posed by plastic materials. Through informed choices and collaborative efforts, we pave the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

References: Childs, P. E., Hayes, S. M., & O’Dwyer, A. (2015). "Chemistry and Everyday Life: Relating Secondary School Chemistry to the Current and Future Lives of Students". In Relevant Chemistry Education . Leiden, The Netherlands: Brill. from https://brill.com/view/book/edcoll/9789463001755/BP000004.xml Wichai-utcha, N., Chavalparit, O. 3Rs Policy and plastic waste management in Thailand. J Mater Cycles Waste Manag 21 , 10–22 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10163-018-0781-y

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version