The life of polymers requires lots of e[?], labour and expense. The [?] is also being affected by the careless disposal of unwanted plastics. Sensible and effective disposal of plastics has been more successful in other countries in Europe than in the UK.

Most [?] polymers are made from crude oil. Crude oil consists of molecules of carbon and hydrogen called [?]. There are different [?] of these chains of atoms. Some of these hydrocarbons can be refined, and used as fuels and [?].

The first step is to pump the crude oil to a [?], where it is distilled. This separates the chains of molecules of different lengths . The molecules with five to nine [?] atoms are then broken down into smaller molecules. An example of this is a gas called ethene. Each carbon atom is attached to [?] other atoms. This makes ethene an [?] hydrocarbon which is reactive. It can react with other molecules to make [?] molecules. This is because each carbon atom is able to join up with another atom. This is not possible for in a [?] hydrocarbon such as ethane where each carbon atom is linked to [?] other atoms.

Polymers are used extensively in everyday life. Some polymers can be easily [?] into different products, and some can be made into long [?] for making fabrics for clothes. Making polymers needs energy during production. Energy is also used when the polymers are made into products. For example clothes will need to be washed and ironed during their lifetime. This has an effect on the [?]. Waste water, containing chemicals from washing can often will go int rivers and the [?], and harmful vapours can be released into the [?].

Energy is also need to dispose of unwanted polymers at the end of their useful life as a product. Many polymers end up in a [?], which is a large hole into the ground. Moving waste produces needs energy in transportation. This is becoming an increasingly inefficient way of disposing of unwanted products. It can can also affect the environment, since many polymers are not broken down naturally when disposed of in the ground.

A more energy efficient way of disposing of plastics is to burn them in an i[?]. The heat from the incinerator can then be used to boil [?]. The stream from the water can then be used to generate [?]. Modern incinerators use very high [?], so that harmful chemicals are destroyed and they are not released into the atmosphere.

Another way of disposing of plastic products is to [?] them. New products can be made from many types of polymers. However, there are a number is issues that need to be considered. The recycling process requires the use of energy in c[?], transportation, cleaning, and making the new products. The plastics also need to be sorted into different polymer groups. All this can be very expensive, and someone has to pay for all the energy, transportation and labour. Of course, it all depends on the cooperation of the public. Most of the rubbish in the UK is still placed straight into landfills. Local and national i[?] have succeeded to a certain extent. More Government legislation, local national and international, might force people to be more responsible is disposing of unwanted plastics. Collective responsibility from everyone is urgently required if we are to save our planet from pollution and making more [?] use of energy resources.