In 1907, chemist Leo Baekeland was searching for a shellac substitute to insulate electrical wiring. While experimenting with phenol and formaldehyde, he accidentally cre

Bakelite became the first fully synthetic plastic, replacing scarce natural materials like ivory and tortoiseshell. It launched a revolution, leading to new plastics that shaped everything from phones and toys to furniture and packaging.

Plastic made life easier—but also left a mark. Today, the focus is on finding eco-friendlier versions to reduce its lasting impact.