As environmental performance becomes increasingly important, the development of man-made polymers and their associated benefits has been overshadowed by problems relating to their ultimate disposal. In the light of wider acceptance of polymers for use in high technology applications, this book aims to redress the balance. It reviews the properties and industrial applications of polymers and discusses their environmental benefits compared with traditional materials. The text also addresses the issues of polymer durability, recycling processes to aid waste minimization and biodegradable polymers. The book intends to introduce the non-specialist reader to the benefits and limitations of polymeric materials from an environmental viewpoint, and is aimed at both students and professionals.