Everyone knows plastic is a huge problem, which causes much damage to the natural environment. In this article, we will discuss what plastic pollution is, the causes of plastic pollution and the solution to plastic pollution, especially tips for individuals to reduce plastics themselves.
What is plastic pollution?
Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment which negatively affects wildlife habitats, the natural environment, and humans.
What are the causes of plastic pollution?
There are many causes of plastic pollution. Having knowledge of them will help us become more conscious and informed and make better consumption decisions.
We are throwing away large amounts of waste, which is made of plastic.
The first cause is that plastic is cheap and always available. Since plastic is affordable, it can be used in every aspect of life, from bags to straws to cutlery and so on. Also, there are a lot of plastic items with a short lifespan, but we don’t use and value them long enough. After being used one or two times, they will quickly end up in landfills.
The second cause is that plastic takes over hundreds of years to decompose. The decomposition time of plastics ranges from 50 to 600 years. From year to year, plastic is thrown away into the environment, dumped in landfill, and exists for years. New plastic items are produced every day and the cycle repeats.
The last cause is from fishing industries. Plastic waste is often washed from ships and nets. The plastic not only pollutes the water but also the items make marine animals swallow.
How to reduce plastic pollution?
- Avoid single-use plastics such as drinking straws.
- If you go shopping, remember to take a cloth bag.
- Adopt reusable items such as water bottles, keep cups, and travel cutlery.
- Buy more bulk food and fewer packaged products.
- Make those around you aware of the importance of reducing the consumption of plastic.
- Pay attention and put your plastic waste in the correct recycling container.
