Effective option to deal with plastic hazards

Plastic waste has become a serious problem of the environment today, which is not only affecting the earth, oceans and rivers, but also getting into our food and water. Traditional plastics are manufactured from petroleum products, which increase pollution and do not destroy for hundreds of years. Scientists are looking towards rice-based bioplastic to find a solution to this problem, which can be a durable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic. Rice is the most grown and eaten grain worldwide. Large amounts of agricultural residues, such as paddy husk and parali, emerge during its processing. Usually there is no special use of these and at times farmers are forced to burn them, which increases air pollution. Air pollution reaches dangerous levels in Delhi and its surrounding areas in the months of December-January. Scientists have learned to use this agricultural waste in making biodegradable plastic, not only recycling agricultural waste, which is beneficial for the environment, but it can also increase farmers’ income and generate a new beneficial opportunity for industries. The problem of traditional plastic waste is that it does not destroy easily in the environment and gradually break into small particles and turn into microplastic. The same microplastics have been found in our water, food and even air, which can be a serious threat to health. Research suggests that millions of tonnes of plastic reaches the oceans every year, causing huge damage to marine creatures. Moreover, the plastic making process emits greenhouse gases, making the problem of climate change more severe. Recycling of traditional plastic is also not completely effective, as most plastics either move to landfills or generate harmful gases when burned. Bioplastics can naturally decompose and do not harm the environment. These are made from biological sources, such as maize, sugarcane and now rice. The bioplastic made of rice mainly uses starch and cellulose. A flexible and durable plastic is prepared by mixing rice starch with certain natural substances, such as glycerol, In addition, cellulose is extracted from rice bran, which can be made strong bioplastic by preparing it in further process. Scientists have developed the technique of creating a biological polymer called polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) from rice residue, which is completely biodegradable. It is as strong as traditional plastic but disintegrates naturally in just a few months. Rice-based bioplastic can be used in many industries, making it a practical alternative to traditional plastics. In food packaging, containers and wrapping materials made of bioplastic maintain the freshness of food products and reduce plastic waste. In the agriculture sector, biodegradable mulching film is helpful in maintaining soil moisture and weed control. In medical devices, surgical needles, self-melting stitches, and its use in drug delivery systems is increasing. In consumer products, bioplastic use is also increasing in the manufacture of biodegradable cutlery, disposable cups and toys. Similarly, in the textile and fashion industry, organic fabrics made from biopolymers can help reduce environmental impact. In Threedy printing, bioplastic is becoming a sustainable choice in additive manufacturing. However, rice-based bioplastics have many advantages, but there are also some obstacles in adopting it extensively. At the moment its production cost is costlier than traditional plastic. Some bioplastics are not as strong as conventional plastic. These need perfect conditions to be completely decomposed. If the use of food-based raw materials for bioplastic production increases, it may also affect food safety. Despite this, bioplastic progress has immense potential, with its global market growing rapidly. European countries have played a leading role in adopting this technique. In India too, steps are being taken towards banning single-use plastic, which can lead to a great opportunity for bioplastic. If rice-based bioplastic production is promoted and research is encouraged, it can become an important solution to deal with plastic pollution. If, rice-based bioplastic is extensively adopted, it can become a better alternative to traditional plastic. If this technology is encouraged and invested in its growth is boomed, it will certainly prove helpful in realizing our dream of a green and clean future.
Vijay Garg
Retired Principal Educational Columnist Gali Kaur Chand MHR
MALOUT Punjab