1. 3 (+1)R concept In solving plastic waste disposal problem by Lee Jo May Universiti Sains Malaysia Sept 20, 2010

2. Discuss problems derived from irresponsible plastic waste disposal Explain and highlight the contribution of 3(+1)R concept in plastic waste management Focus on development of (+1)R – Introduction to biodegradable plastic 2 Overvie w

3. 1. Plastics low biodegradability 2. Limited landfills 3. Expanding population and industrialisation 3 PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE

4. PLASTIC EARTH

5. 3 (+1 ) R Concept Redevelop 3 R(+1) R Reduce Reuse Recycle 5 2 reasons 3R insufficient Introduce biodegradable plastic

6. Non-degradable Degradable Biodegradable material definition : a material capable of undergoing decomposition into carbon dioxide, water, methane, or biomass resulted from the enzymatic action of microorganisms, which can be measured by standardized tests, in a specified period of time reflecting available disposal condition. -ASTM- Redevelop 6

7. Eg. : Cellulose Eg. : Polyesters 7

8. Life cycle of GREEN biodegradable plastic material NATURAL RESOURCES HARVEST BIODEGRADABLE POLYMER CARBON DIOXIDE & WATER (CO 2 + H 2 O+ C residue ) DISPOSABLE PRODUCT 8

9. ……BIODEGRADATION…… Increasing Time 9

10. Conventional vs Biodegradable Composition Conventional plastics Biodegradable plastics Example Polyethylene, polypropylene Starch, Cellulose, polyesters BiodegradabilityBadExcellent PriceCommonly cheapMostly expensive ApplicationWide variety Limited applications Raw materialsUnrenewableRenewable 10

11. Conclusions 3R is insufficient to overcome problems of plastic waste accumulation. 3R & (+1)R [redeveloping plastic materials] should coexist. 11