Consider the following: I. Cigarette butts II. Eyeglass lenses III. Car tyres How many of them contain plastic?

1. A. Only one
2. B. Only two
3. C. All the three
4. D. None

Answer: C

Explanation

All three items listed contain plastic. Cigarette butts (I) are a significant source of plastic pollution because their filters are made of cellulose acetate, a type of plastic that degrades very slowly and releases toxic chemicals. Eyeglass lenses (II) are commonly made from various plastics such as CR-39, polycarbonate, or Trivex, chosen for their lightweight and shatter-resistant properties compared to glass. Car tyres (III) are a major, often overlooked, source of microplastic pollution. They are composed of a complex mixture of synthetic rubbers (plastics), natural rubber, and other chemicals. As tyres wear down, they shed tiny plastic particles into the environment. The pervasive nature of plastic pollution and its environmental impact, including microplastics, is a critical issue for UPSC, often linked to sustainable development and environmental conservation.