Plastics are synthetic compounds, organic polymers (very large molecules). Mainly derived from petrochemicals; Cheap and easy to manufacture, versatile, stable and impervious to water; Very useful to people - used for most things, from plastic bags to spaceships; However, they break down very slowly in the environment; Their impact on the environment became a concern in the mid-20th century; Recycling of plastics was introduced (Namibia has a recycling plant in Okahandja); However, recycling on its own has not solved the problem; Other measures are also needed.