Scientists at UNSW Sydney are pioneering microfactories — compact, modular units that recycle complex plastic waste from electronics into valuable materials like 3D printing filaments. While global plastic production reached 413.8 million metric tons in 2023, less than 10% is recycled. Plastic pollution harms ecosystems and human health, with studies showing accumulation in organs. Over 100 nations support a UN treaty to curb plastic production, seen as vital to addressing the crisis.