Addressing Plastic Pollution Through Circular Economy and Green Polymers
On 16 July 2025, Sunway University hosted an enlightening talk titled “Impact of Plastic Waste on the Health of Our Ecosystem,” delivered by Associate Professor Dr Valiyaveettil Suresh from the Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore. Organised by the Jeffrey Sachs Center on Sustainable Development (JSC) and chaired by Prof. Dato' Dr Agamuthu Pariatamby, the event highlighted the urgent environmental and health risks posed by plastic pollution.
Prof. Dr Valiyaveettil shared compelling insights into how micro and nanoplastics (tiny plastic) particles pervasive in our environment are entering food chains, accumulating in organs, and disrupting cellular metabolism. His research demonstrated that polymer particles such as PVC and PMMA can persist inside living organisms and cause species-specific toxic effects.
He also emphasised that the linear nature of current plastic production renders recycling largely ineffective. Instead, he advocated for circular economy approaches and the development of green polymers to mitigate future harm. The talk also explored how advanced research in sustainable materials is essential in addressing the growing microplastic crisis now a critical issue for both ecological and human health.
A special thanks to Sakkunthala Elil, Research Assistant in Microplastic Studies, for her support in organising this event.
