Current Developments in the Chemical Upcycling of Waste Plastics Using Alternative Energy Sources

The management of plastics waste is one the most urgent and significant global problems now. Historically, have been predominantly discarded, mechanically recycled, or incinerated for energy production. However, these approaches typically relied on thermal processes like conventional pyrolysis, which are energy-intensive unsustainable. In this Minireview, some latest advances future trends in chemical upcycling by photocatalytic, electrolytic, microwave-assisted pyrolysis discussed as more environmentally friendly alternatives to reactions. We highlight how transformation different types exploiting alternative sources can generate value-added products such fuels (H2 other carbon-containing small molecules), feedstocks, newly functionalized polymers, contribute a sustainable circular economy.