Every day we hear news about pollution and it's impact of environment. We often hear water pollution, air pollution and the emerging plastic pollution. We always say that it's not our responsibility it's the government and authorities. But in my view its also our responsibility to protect the environment and take actions regarding that. This article primiarily focuses on plastic pollution. In this article we will discuss about cause of plastic pollution, it's impact on human being , animal and environment. What are solutions to tackle plastic pollution. What we can do as a individual to minimise it. What are initiatives of companies to tackle plastic pollution.
1.Introduction
Plastic is derieved from the Greek word Plastikos which means anything capable of molded easily. Plastic because of its properties can be easily changed into different shapes.
Properties of plastic:
1. Highly durable
2. Bad conductor of Electricity
We use plastic in our daily life because of its durability, low cost and convience. We were not known about its harmful effects because we have not any awareness regarding this particular subject. But soon after several studies and experience we came to know that plastic is very harmful. Plastic is non biodegrable that means it takes a lot of time to degrade and causes problem for all including mother earth. Still many people wants to use other alternative. But their cost is high. So we need to find the solution to it.
2.Causes of Plastic Pollution
i. Single use plastic- Every day we go to market to buy vegetables and fruits and forgot carry bag and ask for plastic. We go to malls to buys clothes and anything necesarry and take plastic. This results in accumulation of plastics in environment because we threw them after use.
ii. Companies-Many companies involved in production of consumers goods use plastic to save production cost
iii Food Delivery- Technology has made our life very easy we order food online and get delivered to our home they also use single plastic and plastic packaging which ultimately dumped into the environment and also affects our health.
3.Impacts of Plastic pollution
i. Human beings- As we know that plastic is non biodegrable it remains into the environment for many years. So by heat radiation, wind and currents in the water slowly breaks into very tiny pieces and can travel into water and pollute it. We use water for several purposes like drinking. Several studies have shown the results of cancer, lung problem due to consumption of tiny particles through water.
ii.Animals- We have always seen in the news that animals while searching food often consume plastic and ultimately dies. We as a rationle human being have to solve this problem.
iii. Environment- Due to the accumulation of plastic in area, water it adversly affect the ecological balance of that area. Because of the large volume of plastic in water it affects the animals and cause injury to them.
4.Steps to tackle Plastic pollution
I. Single use plastic- we have to recycle single use plastic and reuse it.
II. Companies- Companies need to find other alternative to plastic like paper for packaging which beneficial for all of us.
III. Waste management- Government with the help of ngo and authorities should make a proper plan for the plastic waste management technique and recycling.
IV. Awareness- Through articles, campaign we have to make people aware about tthe harmful effects of plastic. We should encourage people to stop using single use plastic .
V. Research- Government should encourage research on other alternatives to plastic.
5.Responsibility of individuals
I.We should stop using single use plastic. Whenever we go to the market to buy anything we should carry our own carry bags.
II. We should follow the guidelines of government regarding recycling of plastic waste.
III. We should always participate in clean drive in our locality.
IV. We should aware everyone about harmful effects of plastic and encourage everyone to stop using it.
6. Initiatives taken by companies to tackle Plastic Pollution
1.Coca cola- Coca cola is collaborating with technology companies to make bottles completely from plant based source.
2.Nestle- Nestle has committed to make all(100%) of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025.
3.Pepsico-Pepsico in 2019 annnounced that it planned to reduce plastic content by35% and in the process eliminate 2.5 million tones cumulate virgin plastic by 2025.
7.Conclusion
Plastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental challenge, impacting ecosystems, wildlife and human health.
The presence of plastic waste in oceans, rivers and landfills results in detrimental effects such as habitat destruction , ingestion by marine animals and the introduction of microplastics into the food chain. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach involving policy changes, corporate responsibility and individual action. Solution include i mproving waste management systems, increasing recycling rates, promoting the use of biodegrable alternatives and reducing plastic consumption through behavioral changes. Collective efforts from governments, businesses and individuals are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of plastic pollution and protect the environment for future generations.