Plastic pollution affects environment and ecosystems, especially oceans. Bakelite invention in 1907 revolutionized synthetic plastic materials. Plastics don't decompose, breaking into microplastics that can last centuries. Millions of animals, including endangered species, have been killed
Convention aims to control hazardous waste movements between nations. Entered force in 1992, currently has 191 parties. Haiti and US signed but did not ratify
Biomedical waste contains infectious materials from medical treatments and research. Includes sharps, discarded blood, body parts, and medical supplies. Generated by hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and medical offices
Turkey's population grew from 84.3 million in 2020 to 86.5 million in 2022. 1,387 municipalities collected 32.3 million tonnes of waste in 2020. Only 13.2% of waste was recovered, 69.4% went to landfill
Two distinct collections of marine plastic waste in North Pacific Ocean. Western Garbage Patch spans Hawaii to California, Eastern near Japan. Formed by rotating ocean currents called gyres. Estimated to cover 1.6 million square km area
Recycled polyester is made from plastic bottles and used in athletic and fashion clothing. Polyester is the most widely used fiber worldwide, with 55 million tons produced in 2018. Fashion brands use recycled polyester to appeal to eco-conscious consumers