Study finds plastic exposed to the sun emit greenhouse gases

Dr. Royer and her team studied the gas emissions of various plastics, including polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, and low density polyethylene, when exposed to sunlight. They found that sunlight breaks down plastics, increasing the surface area exposed and thus the gas emissions. Notably, low density polyethylene continued to emit gases even in the dark after sun exposure.

What gases are released when plastics are exposed to sunlight?

Which types of plastics did Dr. Royer and her team test?

How does the exposure of plastic to sunlight affect its breakdown?

What is the relationship between plastic breakdown and gas emissions?

What unique property was observed in low density polyethylene regarding gas emissions?