Our lives now include a lot of plastic, and getting rid of it presents a big environmental challenge. If plastic garbage is not adequately managed, it might have catastrophic repercussions for species and ecosystems. Plastic waste frequently finds its way into landfills, where it can take hundreds of years to disintegrate. But even in landfills, plastic can release dangerous chemicals and tiny plastic particles that endanger the environment and human health by contaminating the soil and water supplies. In addition, a sizable amount of plastic trash ends up in the oceans. Approximately 8 million metric tonnes of plastic are thought to enter the oceans annually<source>. Marine life is harmed by this plastic pollution through ingestion, entanglement, and habitat damage. Microplastics, which are made of microscopic fragments of plastic that can be swallowed by smaller organisms and go up the food chain to damage larger animals like humans, are another way that plastic can degrade.
The activism and awareness around eliminating single-use plastics and locating sustainable substitutes have grown in recent years. Governments, businesses, and individuals are collaborating to create novel solutions, like compostable materials, biodegradable plastics, and a stronger focus on circular economy models.
Why its high time to say a big ‘NO’ to plastic
90% of the plastic that ends up in the ocean is thought to originate from just the most polluted rivers in the world. <source> Our main source of water comes from the ocean. The vast quantity of plastic waste that has entered the ocean has polluted the water and destroyed the marine ecology. For the creatures that rely on the river for their survival, the floating pieces of plastic trash frequently prove to be lethal. Through the seafood we splurged on, plastic and its poisons enter the food chain and naturally make their way to our dinner plates. A crucial action we can all take to safeguard the environment and preserve our world for future generations is to say “no” to plastic pollution.
There is essentially no way to avoid becoming a victim of plastic pollution because plastic has practically engulfed every aspect of our lives. Of course, the greatest threat we face stems from our own irresponsible behaviour towards the environment. But we can avert further crises if we work together. As someone has rightly said, charity begins at home, so we can refrain from using things like plastic bags, straws, water bottles, etc. Instead, we can choose reusable alternatives such as cutlery, glass or stainless-steel bottles, and cloth bags. The urgent need of the hour is to raise awareness of the harmful impacts of plastic pollution, educate people about the significance of reducing plastic consumption, and promote sustainable practices.
How Recycling can prove to be even more detrimental
Recent studies suggest that recycling plastic can be more toxic and is not something we consider a solution. As plastic is recycled, its toxicity actually rises, and it is obvious that the only effective way to stop plastic pollution is to drastically cut back on its manufacture. According to the study, recycled plastics frequently have higher concentrations of harmful flame retardants, benzene, and other carcinogens, as well as environmental toxins like brominated and chlorinated dioxins that can alter the body’s natural hormone levels.<source> So the best course of action is to search for goods with little or environmentally friendly packaging.
Additionally, support companies that make products from recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials. Businesses and organisations can be persuaded to implement plastic-free policies and support regional campaigns that advocate for alternatives to single-use plastics. As a community, we can stay informed about new technologies and innovations aimed at reducing plastic pollution.
Additionally, cleanup activities to remove plastic garbage from parks, beaches, and other natural areas might be planned in order to inform people about the significance of reducing their use of plastic.
Conclusion
Even if there is still more to be done, the problem of plastic pollution needs to be solved by a variety of stakeholders, including people, businesses, governments, and environmental groups. We can gradually lessen our reliance on plastic and reduce its negative effects on the environment by encouraging responsible consumption, trash reduction, and sustainable practices. It is especially energising when regular people pressure corporations and the government to take action against plastic. As long as we work together, we can reduce plastic pollution and safeguard the ecosystems of our planet. Just keep in mind that every little bit counts.
Shared By : Mr Raj Bajoria,
COO at Selfex
