Final answer:
The use of plastics raises environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradable nature and contribution to increased waste. Recycling is a necessary yet challenging response to environmental contamination by plastics. Mandating recycling is a policy option under consideration to address this pervasive issue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The benefits and problems outlined are connected to the widespread use of plastics. An inexpensive and versatile material, plastics have replaced many natural materials in products ranging from everyday items to advanced applications. Despite their strength and longevity, they contribute to the increase in trash volume and environmental pollution, as they do not degrade easily. Recycling programs have been established to mitigate this issue, but they face challenges due to inefficiency; only a small fraction of plastics are recycled.
The consideration of whether mandating recycling is a sound policy emerges from the urgent requirement to address environmental contamination caused by plastics and other materials. Although plastics account for a relatively small percentage of landfill mass, their non-biodegradable nature poses a significant management challenge. Given that the production of plastics consumes non-renewable resources, and considering their end-of-life impact, recycling is a crucial component of sustainable waste management.