Plastic Wastes: Management, Control, Recycling and Disposal

Plastic wastes in the municipal solid waste (MSW) stream and in the industrial sector are discussed in this book. Quantities of plastic wastes generated, characterization of the wastes, their environmental impact, and management of the waste stream are described. Also covered are costs of recycling processes, technology, and energy considerations.

Part I. Wastes in the Municipal Solid Waste Stream
Introduction
Production, Use, and Disposal of Plastics and Plastic Products
Impacts of Plastic Debris on the Marine Environment
Impacts of Post-Consumer Plastics Waste on the Management of Municipal Solid Waste
Options to Reduce the Impacts of Post-Consumer Plastics Wastes
Objectives and Action Items
Appendix A: - Statutory and Regulatory Authorities Available to EPA and Other Federal Agencies
Appendix B: - State and Local Recycling Efforts
Appendix C: - Substitutes for Lead and Cadmium Additives for Plastics
Part II. Recycling in the Industrial Sector
Introduction
Plastic Waste Projections
The Energy Content of Plastic Wastes
The Cost of Recycling Versus Disposal
An Update of Recent Institutional Changes that May Promote Recycling
Recent Legislative and Regulatory Actions
The Potential for Divertable Plastic Waste
Plastics Recycling from the Current Industry's Perspective
Conclusions
Appendix: - Plastic Waste Projections: Methodology and Assumptions