What's the Solution?: Plastic Fantastic - Episode 3

The solutions to the problem of plastic pollution and plastic
waste lie in many directions. A global plan to stop littering
will go a long way. But human behaviour change often needs some
economic intervention. One idea by the UK government and many
others around the world, is to give a little financial incentive
in the form of deposits on plastic bottles, or taxation on single
use plastic like coffee cups, food wrapping and plastic bags.
Mark Miodownik investigates some of the scientific solutions such
as alternatives to petrochemical plastic using microbes or plant
materials, clever waste sorting technologies to help make the
process easier, even using less plastic. And he hopefully
untangles some of the confusing messages about plastic and comes
up with ways to be plastic smart.


Producer: Fiona Roberts


First broadcast on Tuesday 29 May, 2018.