The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Plastic waste management is a critical environmental issue. While plastics are versatile materials, their disposal methods significantly impact ecosystem health. Improper disposal, such as open burning, leads to the release of hazardous pollutants.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Burning plastics does not release beneficial nutrients. Instead, the combustion of synthetic polymers releases toxic substances such as dioxins, furans, mercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) into the atmosphere. These are persistent organic pollutants that degrade air quality.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Plastics, particularly thermoplastics, can be recycled. Through mechanical or chemical recycling processes, plastic waste is collected, sorted, and reprocessed into raw materials to manufacture new useful products, such as containers, clothing fibers, and construction materials.
- Statement 3 is Correct. The gases and particulate matter released during the burning of plastics are hazardous. Inhalation of these emissions can lead to severe health problems in humans, including respiratory ailments, skin irritation, hormonal imbalances, and an increased risk of cancer due to the carcinogenic nature of dioxins and furans.
Key Takeaway: Plastic waste should be managed through recycling or safe disposal; burning plastics releases toxic, carcinogenic gases that are detrimental to both the environment and human health.