In 1970, Leo Baekeland invented the Bakelite- the first plastic. Since then plastics have been widely adopted in various industries. Furthermore, plastic was seen as a viable alternative to many other uses of that era. It was cheap to produce, strong enough and resistant to corrosion.
However, the fact that plastic does not decompose is the main concern. It can take 400-500 years for a plastic bottle to completely decompose. A plastic bag found in a grocery store can take up to 1000 years to completely decompose.
The effects of plastic on animals are very clear. When animals consume plastic, their digestive systems can’t break it down. In the marine environment, plastic can cause damage to fish and other aquatic organisms.
In humans, plastics can actually enter tissues through the food chain. Large pieces of plastic eventually break down into smaller particles called microplastics. Scientists have found that these plastic particles are carcinogenic, which means they increase the risk of cancer in humans.
Plastic has been introduced into our environment and there is no changing that fact. However, we can contribute to reducing its footprint by recycling and using eco-friendly alternatives. Also, we have to be responsible in disposing of plastic, doing so will create a safer and cleaner environment for all life on earth.
Shared By : Prof. Pramod K. Singh
Author’s Bio:
Prof. Pramod K. Singh is the Head of the Department of Department of Environmental Sciences Sharda University, Greater Noida
