Accumulation of plastic waste during COVID-19
Tanveer M. Adyel
Abstract
As lockdowns took effect to slow the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the global demand for petroleum collapsed. As a result, oil prices plummeted, making the manufacture of virgin plastics from fossil fuels less expensive than recycling (1). This cost incentive, along with lifestyle changes that increase plastic use, has complicated the challenge of overcoming plastic pollution.
Topics & Concepts
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Plastic pollution2019-20 coronavirus outbreakPlastic wasteIncentiveSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)Natural resource economicsWaste managementFossil fuelEnvironmental sciencePetroleumCoronavirusBusinessPollutionEconomicsEngineeringChemistryMedicineDiseaseInfectious disease (medical specialty)BiologyVirologyEcologyOrganic chemistryPathologyOutbreakMicroeconomicsHealthcare and Environmental Waste ManagementMunicipal Solid Waste ManagementMicroplastics and Plastic Pollution