Fact check: Plastic can be fully recycled

1. Summary of the results

The statement "Plastic can be fully recycled" is demonstrably inaccurate based on current global recycling capabilities and statistics. Multiple sources confirm that only 9% of plastics globally are actually recycled ^{[1] [1]}. The vast majority - 91% of plastics - meet alternative fates, with approximately 6,900 million metric tonnes having never been recycled at all ^[1].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several crucial pieces of context are missing from the original statement:

• Technical Limitations: Recycling faces multiple technical challenges, including:
• Complex plastic compositions
• Chemical additives
• Contamination issues
• Difficulty in sorting different plastic types
• Release of microplastics during the recycling process ^[1]
• Recycling Cycle Limitations: Even when plastics are recycled, they can typically only undergo a few recycling cycles, with just about 10% capable of undergoing multiple rounds of recycling ^{[1] [1]}
• Alternative Solutions: A more comprehensive approach is needed, including:
• Reducing plastic consumption
• Improving recycling technologies
• Supporting systemic waste management changes ^[2]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The statement presents a dangerously oversimplified view of plastic recycling that could benefit several stakeholders:

• Plastic Manufacturers: This narrative benefits plastic producers by suggesting their products are environmentally sustainable
• Consumer Goods Companies: The statement helps justify continued use of plastic packaging by implying it can be infinitely recycled
• Status Quo Defenders: The statement diverts attention from the need for systemic changes in plastic production and consumption ^[2]

The reality is that "plastic recycling is not working" as a complete solution ^[1], and presenting it as such undermines efforts to address plastic pollution through more comprehensive approaches.