Thermo-chemical recycling of plastics as a sustainable approach to the plastic waste issue

Abstract Plastic waste has become a global environmental crisis due to its non-biodegradable nature and widespread accumulation in ecosystems. As the volume of plastic waste continues to increase, effective and sustainable methods for plastic waste management are critical. Traditional mechanical recycling methods are falling short of addressing the full spectrum of plastic pollution and in the framework of the circular economy zero landfill is required. Thermo-chemical recycling has emerged as a promising solution to overcome these limitations. Thermo-chemical recycling includes various processes that convert plastics into valuable products such as fuels, monomers, and chemicals. This paper explores the potential of thermo-chemical recycling as a sustainable solution to the plastic waste problem, examining its principles, types, benefits, challenges, and future prospects. Moreover, the targeted product is presented depending on the polymer recycled type. Specific focus is set on the research conducted in our laboratory and the results obtained. Furthermore, challenges remain in removing harmful additives; energy consumption, environmental impact, and recommended procedures are discussed. The advancements in this field present a viable approach to reducing plastic waste and creating a circular economy for plastics. Key challenges and future research directions for the redesign and manufacturing of polymeric materials with built-in recyclability are also outlined.