Waste plastic management: Recycling and the environmental health nexus

• Plastic collection and sorting exposes individuals to toxic chemicals and bacteria. • Plastic shredding and washing release microplastics and organic contaminants. • Plastic extrusion and pyrolysis generate contaminants and greenhouse emissions. • Efficient waste management through the use of Internet-of-things is encouraged. • Use of toxic chemical additives in plastic production is strongly discouraged. The increasing production of plastic materials and their subsequent disposal as waste have necessitated the development of effective waste management strategies. Among various approaches, the recycling of plastic waste has gained significant attention as an environmentally friendly alternative to landfilling and incineration. This manuscript explores the different methods of plastic recycling and their associated environmental and health impacts. Despite its economic advantages, mechanical recycling poses environmental and health risks, particularly due to the release of microplastics. These microplastics can contaminate the environment and enter the human body through inhalation and ingestion, leading to potential health hazards. Thus, strategies for mitigating microplastic pollution, including advanced sorting technologies and the implementation of IoT and RFID systems for efficient waste management were discussed. Furthermore, the environmental impacts of chemical recycling processes, especially concerning toxic chemical additives and greenhouse gas emissions, are examined. The findings highlight the need for improved waste management practices and the adoption of mitigation measures to reduce the environmental footprint of plastic waste recycling and promote public health.