World Environment Day – Beat Plastic Pollution

This year’s theme for world environment day is “ Beat Plastic Pollution”

Plastic pollution, a growing global concern, refers to the accumulation of plastic debris in the environment, impacting wildlife, ecosystems, and potentially human health. This pollution stems from the widespread use of plastic products, many of which are designed for single use and are not readily biodegradable, leading to their persistence in the environment. 

Here’s a breakdown of the issue: 

• Causes:The primary cause is the excessive production and consumption of plastic, especially single-use plastics like bottles, bags, and packaging. Land-based sources like runoff, littering, and industrial activities also contribute to the problem. 
• Impacts:Plastic pollution harms wildlife by causing entanglement and ingestion, leading to injuries and deaths. It can also alter habitats and disrupt natural processes. Furthermore, plastic debris, especially microplastics, can contaminate food sources, potentially impacting human health. 
• Sources:Common sources include:
  • Single-use plastics: Bottles, bags, cups, straws, and packaging 
  • Industrial waste: Runoff from factories and manufacturing processes 
  • Littering: Discarded plastic waste in public areas 
  • Agricultural runoff: Plastic waste from agricultural activities 
• Solutions:Addressing plastic pollution requires a multi-pronged approach, including: Reuse, Recycle and Reduce approach.

Marine Pollution

Every day, the equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic are dumped into the world’s oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Plastic pollution is a global problem. Every year 19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into aquatic ecosystems, polluting lakes, rivers and seas.

Plastic pollution can alter habitats and natural processes, reducing ecosystems’ ability to adapt to climate change, directly affecting millions of people’s livelihoods, food production capabilities and social well-being. 

Say No to Plastic

My humble request to the readers, don’t use plastic bags. Carry your bag to grocery shop and bring the groceries in your cloth bags.

Be the Change you want to see