With the cost of metal as an input resource and associated immpact on the environment. Why dont we replace metal money with robust plastic?

The technology must exist to impregnate some sort of complicated unique identifier to deter forgery and to allow consumers to identify what is valid currency and what is not.

I am sure that with the right amount of creative thought that we can create a valid alternative to metal money. Think of the cost savings.

If the charateristics of the money can be agreed through specification it might also allow some artistic license to allow different companies to add flare or even provide coins as a new advertising surface, while at the same time setting the scene for global currency (i.e. based upon the same agreed specification).

Please let me know what you think.