Written By Iqra Mehboob
Article: Unraveling the harmful consequences of polyethylene pollution. Polyethene bags ar e also known as single use Plastic bags.Plastic bags have widespread use in our
everyday life. They are seemingly convenient, cheap, and offer a readily available transportation
solution for purchased goods. But, these single-use products have a tremendous and growing
environmental cost that we are beginning to recognize. Their use is increasing so much that they are
outpacing our ability to deal with them. The challenge of waste from plastic bags is a global one but
disproportionately impacts developing countries of Asia and Africa. While other countries with weak
recycling systems also have trouble dealing with this issue.
BACKGROUND OF PLASTIC BAGS: Plastic bags are produced from fossil fuels and, through the
manufacturing process, end up as non-biodegradable waste choking the landfills. Our addiction to
single-use plastic bags has caused them to now be found polluting our waterways, filling the stomachs
of marine wildlife, cluttering landscapes, and more.According to research by the EPA, globally, we use
approximately one trillion disposable bags every year. This figure also means that every minute we use
one million bags worldwide. The U.S. alone uses an estimated 380 million plastic bags and wraps a year,
requiring over 12 million barrels of oil to produce.plastic bags, harm our universe in numerous ways.
Pollution: They litter our environment, including oceans, rivers, and land, harming marine life and
wildlife.
Plastic waste: They contribute to the staggering 8 million tons of plastic waste that enter our oceans
every year.Microplastics: They break down into microplastics, which are ingested by animals and
contaminate the food chain.Greenhouse gas emissions: The pp and transportation of
polyethylene bags contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.
Water pollution: They can enter waterways, harming aquatic life and contaminating water sources.
Soil pollution: They can take hundreds of years to decompose, harming soil quality and affecting
plant growth.
Animal entanglement: Animals can become entangled in or ingest plastic bags, leading to injury or
death.
Clogged drains: They can clog storm drains, leading to flooding and infrastructure damage.
Litter: They contribute to unsightly litter, degrading our environment and communities.
Waste management issues: They are not biodegradable, making waste management and disposal
challenging.
To mitigate the harmful effects of plastic bags, we can:
Use reusable bags: Made of durable materials like cotton, jute, or canvas, these bags can be used
multiple times, reducing the need for single-use plastic bags.
Recycle plastic bags: Many grocery stores and communities offer plastic bag recycling programs.
Make sure to recycle your plastic bags properly.
Implement bag bans or fees: Many cities and countries have implemented bans or fees on singleuse plastic bags, encouraging the use of reusable bags.
Promote sustainable practices: Educate yourself and others about the harmful effects of plastic
bags and the importance of sustainable practices.
Support plastic pollution reduction initiatives: Organizations and initiatives working to reduce
plastic pollution often need support and funding.
Use biodegradable bags: Made from natural materials like cornstarch or sugarcane, these bags are
compostable and can replace traditional plastic bags.
Reduce plastic bag usage: Refuse plastic bags for small purchases or when shopping online.
Encourage businesses to switch to eco-friendly alternatives: Support businesses that use
reusable or biodegradable bags and encourage others to follow suit.
Participate in beach cleanups and community events: Join local events and initiatives to
clean up plastic waste and raise awareness.
Read More: Nutrient Pollution, A Major Cause of Eutrophication
Advocate for policy changes: Support legislation and policy changes that aim to reduce plastic
pollution and promote sustainable practices.
Remember, every small action counts, and collective efforts can significantly impact our universe’s
well-being!
Let’s work together to reduce plastic bag waste and create a more sustainable future!l
Unraveling the harmful consequences of polyethylene pollution
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