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Iroegbu, et al.

scientific, industrial, and regulatory discourse. For Furthermore, this work challenges present
example, the interchangeable use of terms, such as perceptions and misconceptions surrounding plastic
“plastics,” “polymers,” and “macromolecules” has pollution, urging researchers and policymakers to
contributed to ambiguity in understanding the scope of adopt contextually appropriate definitions that reflect
plastic pollution, its classification, and the implications the material properties, environmental impacts, and
for policy formulation. This is critical because we live regulatory requirements. By refining the language used
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in a language-driven world where the usage of words in plastic pollution discourse, this study seeks to promote
and their symbolic representations shapes thoughts, a more accurate, informed, and unified approach to
influences interpretations, and ultimately defines addressing one of the most pressing environmental
approaches to conventional issues. Therefore, in issues of our time.
1,9
scientific discourse, precise definitions play a crucial role
in shaping policies, guiding societal perceptions, and 2. Methodology
determining responses to environmental challenges. It
1
is unarguable that establishing clear, accurate, and well- To systematically assess the inconsistencies in polymer-
founded definitions that authentically reflect the subject related terminology and propose a standardization
matter is essential for effective communication and framework, this study employed a structured literature
informed decision-making. review. The methodology was designed to ensure a
The advent of synthetic polymer production has rigorous, transparent, and reproducible analysis of the
ushered in a pervasive environmental challenge in the definitions and classifications of plastics, polymers, and
form of plastic pollution. 2,3,10-12 This issue has garnered macromolecules within scientific, industrial, and policy
increasing attention over the decades, as evidenced by contexts.
the vast literature that varies in scope, scientific rigor, A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature
and tone. 2,13-20 For example, a search in Google Scholar was conducted by searching databases, such as
using the term “plastic pollution” yields an enormous Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect, focusing
collection of literature on this subject. Given this on publications from 2020 to 2025 to capture recent
significant volume of reports, vital questions emerge. advancements and policy discussions. Selection criteria
For instance, “Why has the scientific discourse on prioritized studies that directly addressed terminological
plastic pollution persisted over the years?” “Are we inconsistencies, environmental implications of
addressing polymer or plastic pollution?” “Are there misclassification, and the role of standardized definitions
comprehensive solutions to address this challenge?” in regulatory frameworks. Key data points were extracted
This paper critically examines the persistent issue of to identify patterns of inconsistencies, assess their
terminological inconsistencies in plastic pollution impact on scientific discourse and policy, and evaluate
discourse. By systematically reviewing the literature existing classification models. The findings informed
from 2020 to 2025, we assess the extent to which the development of a standardization framework
terminology variations influence scientific research aligned with the IUPAC principles, ensuring scientific
and policy frameworks. Unlike previous reviews accuracy and practical applicability. A summary of the
that primarily discuss plastic pollution from an methodological approach is presented in Table 1.
environmental or technological perspective, this study
highlights the definitional challenges that hinder effective 3. Terminology ambiguity of plastic
communication and problem-solving in the field.
To address this challenge, we propose a standardization Macromolecules are fundamental to life and
framework aligned with the International Union of technology. From DNA and proteins to advanced
Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) principles. This synthetic materials, they underpin biological structures
framework provides clear distinctions between plastics, and industrial innovations alike. 5,21-28 The evolution
polymers, and macromolecules, thereby ensuring greater of polymer science has enabled the development of
precision in academic research, industrial applications, countless materials with tailored properties, propelling
and policy-making. The study advocates the integration progress across multiple domains. 5,29 Despite their
of standardized terminology into the scientific literature, centrality, the terms “macromolecule” and “polymer”
environmental policies, and industrial regulations are frequently used interchangeably in the literature,
to enhance clarity, improve data harmonization, and often without clarification, leading to scientific
support evidence-based decision-making. ambiguity. While common, this conflation deviates

Volume 22 Issue 3 (2025) 2 doi: 10.36922/AJWEP025200158