Unraveling the Mysteries of Plastic Recycling: A Call for Change
In a world inundated with plastic waste, the sight of recycling symbols on bottles and containers may offer a glimmer of hope. However, beneath the surface of these familiar symbols lies a complex and often misleading system. This video delves into the challenges of plastic recycling, exploring the industry's perplexing code system and advocating for a more sustainable, informed approach to address our mounting plastic waste problem.
Key Vocabulary:
1. Dispose (verb)
- Definition: To discard or throw something away.
- Synonym: Discard, discard, toss.
2. Recycling (noun)
- Definition: The practice of converting waste materials into reusable resources.
- Synonym: Reusing, reclamation, repurposing.
3. Plastics (noun)
- Definition: Materials made from polymers, often used for various products.
- Synonym: Polymers, synthetic materials, plastics.
4. Incapable (adjective)
- Definition: Not having the ability or capacity to perform a specific action.
- Synonym: Unable, powerless, inept.
5. Recycled (adjective)
- Definition: Materials that have been treated and made ready for reuse.
- Synonym: Reused, reprocessed, repurposed.
6. Thermosetting (adjective)
- Definition: Materials that become permanently hard through curing.
- Synonym: Harden, solidify, set.
7. Curing (noun)
- Definition: The process of making a substance hard or solid.
- Synonym: Hardening, solidification, setting.
8. Molecular (adjective)
- Definition: Pertaining to the structure and properties of molecules.
- Synonym: Atomic, molecular, microscopic.
9. Crosslinking (noun)
- Definition: The process of creating chemical bonds between molecules.
- Synonym: Linking, bonding, connecting.
10. Rebuilt (verb)
- Definition: To construct something anew after it has been damaged or taken apart.
- Synonym: Reconstruct, restore, reassemble.
11. Recyclable (adjective)
- Definition: Able to be processed and used again.
- Synonym: Reusable, recoverable.
12. Resin (noun)
- Definition: A viscous material used in the production of various products, including plastics.
- Synonym: Polymer, compound, substance.
13. Materials (noun)
- Definition: Substances employed in the creation of objects or products.
- Synonym: Substances, elements, components.
14. Contaminants (noun)
- Definition: Impurities or substances that make another material impure or harmful.
- Synonym: Impurities, pollutants, adulterants.
15. Circular economy (noun phrase)
- Definition: An economic model that promotes the continuous use and recycling of resources.
- Synonym: Sustainable economy, closed-loop system, recycling-centric economy.
These words and phrases are essential for a B2 level learner to understand the text's main ideas and arguments about plastic recycling.
10 Engaging Conversation Questions:
Certainly! Here are 10 conversation questions for Cambridge English B2 level students based on the text:
1. What do you usually do with plastic bottles and containers after you use them?
2. Have you ever encountered difficulties with recycling plastics in your area? Can you describe your experience?
3. What percentage of plastic waste do you think is recycled in your country? Is it a significant amount?
4. Do you believe that the plastic industry has a responsibility to address the issue of plastic waste? Why or why not?
5. How important do you think it is for consumers to understand the resin code system on plastic products?
6. What are some challenges that recycling centers face when dealing with plastic waste, according to the video?
7. In your opinion, what role should government policies play in reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling?
8. Are there any efforts or initiatives in your area to encourage people to use fewer plastic products?
9. What steps can individuals take to reduce their plastic consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future?
10. Do you think the current resin code system should be replaced with simpler recycling labels? Why or why not?
These questions can serve as a basis for discussions and debates on the topic of plastic recycling and waste management.