From Atoms to Materials

Snapshot Snapshot non-woven fabric bag 不織布袋 A non-woven fabric bag Degradable plastics Non-degradable plastics remain in landfills for many years, and are difficult to be broken down into simpler substances. Scientists have invented degradable plastics, which can be broken down more quickly by natural means. Photodegradable plastics can be broken down gradually by sunlight. Biodegradable plastics can be broken down gradually by microorganisms. Totally degradable plastics can be broken down gradually by heat, by sunlight, or under the pressure of weight in landfills. Many environmental problems are caused by the extensive use of metals and plastics. We can apply the ‘4Rs’ principle to help ease these environmental problems. National Security Reducing wastes and recycling materials in different places The extensive use of metals and plastics causes environmental problems and poses a serious threat to ecological security. To safeguard ecological security, some measures are taken to reduce the impact of human activities on the environment. Examples of the measures are: ‘Zero-waste city pilot project’ in the Mainland and ‘Green@community’ recycling network in Hong Kong. These measures aim to reduce waste produced, recycle materials and ensure that waste released into the environment is harmless. Visit our website to learn more in detail. Non-woven fabric bags As a replacement for disposable plastic bags, non-woven fabric bags* have become popular in recent years. Recall your experience of getting and using these bags. How should we use them in an environment-friendly way? • How many of these bags have we collected? • Are they degradable? • How many times is each bag used before it is disposed of? 103 13 From Atoms to Materials © United Prime Educational Publishing (HK) Limited 2024 All rights reserved; no part of this publication may be reproduced, photocopied, recorded or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Sample