Question 30 from UPSC CSE 2022 - Environme nt

Question

With reference to Polyethylene Terephthalate, the use of which is so widespread in our daily lives, consider the following statements:
1. Its fibres can be blended with wool and cotton fibres to reinforce their properties.
2. Containers made of it can be used to store any alcoholic beverage.
3. Bottles made of it can be recycled into other products.
4. Articles made of it can be easily disposed of by incineration without causing greenhouse gas emissions.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. 1 and 3

Strategy: Focus on properties and common misconceptions about PET: Statement 1 requires knowledge of textile applications--blending PET with natural fibres is widely practiced. Statement 2 is a typical trap: PET containers are generally not approved for alcoholic beverages due to safety/health concerns. Statement 3 highlights PET recyclability, which is well-documented. Statement 4 is an extreme/incorrect assertion--burning plastics like PET does emit greenhouse gases. Therefore, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Key Info: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE) is a thermoplastic polymer of the polyester family, notable for its durability, chemical resistance, and clarity.

-   **Applications:**
    -   PET fibres are commonly spun into synthetic fabrics (e.g., polyester), which are often blended with cotton, wool, or rayon to improve strength, reduce shrinking, and enhance other desired textile qualities.
    -   In packaging, PET is used extensively to manufacture bottles for soft drinks, water, and other non-alcoholic beverages. Due to chemical leaching risks and regulatory restrictions, PET bottles are generally not permitted for alcoholic beverages in many countries, including India.

-   **Recycling:**
    -   PET is among the most recyclable plastics. It can be processed multiple times to produce new bottles, fibres for textiles (fleece, carpets), or materials for packaging, automotive parts, and more. Virgin and recycled PET are often blended to retain material quality.

-   **Environmental Impact:**
    -   Incineration of PET produces carbon dioxide and, if incomplete or improper, can release toxic compounds (e.g., acetaldehyde); thus, burning PET contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Large-scale plastic production and disposal, including PET, is a major source of anthropogenic CO2 and other greenhouse gases.

-   **Regulatory Aspect:**
    -   In India and many other countries, laws restrict the use of PET bottles for high-risk products, especially spirits/alcohol and oils due to migration of chemicals into the product under certain conditions.

-   **Relevant Institutions:** Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulate plastic packaging standards. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) oversees plastic waste management, including guidelines for PET recycling and disposal.

-   **Examples:** Common uses include synthetic fibres (for clothing, upholstery), food containers, non-alcoholic beverage bottles, and packaging films. PET is a cornerstone of modern, lightweight, rigid packaging and textile industries.

Answer

Option B: 2 and 4

Answer

Option C: 1 and 4

Answer

Option D: 2 and 3