This key facts covers Environmental Impact of Polymers within Polymers for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Polymers in Organic Chemistry for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 14 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 9 of 15 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
🌍 Environmental Impact of Polymers
Non-biodegradable Waste
Most synthetic polymers are non-biodegradable — they don't break down naturally. Plastic waste accumulates in landfills and oceans, creating pollution that lasts for hundreds of years.
Solutions for Polymer Waste
- Reduce use: Use fewer disposable plastics, choose reusable alternatives
- Reuse: Use plastic items multiple times before disposal
- Recycle: Thermosoftening polymers can be melted and reformed
- Incineration: Burn plastics for energy (but releases CO₂ and toxins)
- Biodegradable polymers: Make polymers from plant materials that decompose naturally
Practice questions for Polymers
What type of monomers are needed for addition polymerisation?
Explain how addition polymerisation works. Include the role of the double bond.