For many years plastic was regarded as white gold. It has been used in so many applications over the years ranging from doors and window frames, toys, packaging, clothing and even medical equipment.
This led to an explosion of plastic being used in literally everything we buy; and for the majority of the time this has been rather unnecessary.
However as the years go by we have found that every piece of plastic we touch has to go somewhere and it is nature, and our environment that has felt the brunt of this.
Plastic pollution has become one of the most troubling environmental issues over the past decade or so and the world is struggling to handle it. Plastic is becoming very visible in countries all over the world, including both developing countries and more advanced countries too.
Some Useful Plastic Statistics
- Every year, 8 million tons of plastic escapes into the ocean. This equates to five rubbish bags of plastic bags being released on every foot of coastline around the World!
- It is estimated that 448 million tons of plastic was produced in 2015, and this is expected to double by 2050.
- Plastics contain additives which make them last longer, but this means that it can take 400 years for them to break down.
The Impacts on Plastics and the Environment
The majority of plastics waste lies in the oceans which are carried around the Earth via rivers which act as conveyor belts. Once in the ocean, they can be caught in currents which could take them anywhere.
But it isn’t just larger chunks of plastic that is dangerous. Once plastics start to break down they quickly become microplastics which can be found in drinking water systems, the air, and even in our food chain.
All of this plastic waste can also be responsible for the killing of animals, and it is believed that millions are killed every year. The majority being killed by strangulation or entanglement but microplastics can also block up the systems of an animal.
All in all, you can see just how damaging one plastic box can be for nature and the environment.
How to Reduce Plastic Waste
Now we understand the negative impact plastic has on the environment, what can we do to reduce it.
Avoid Single Use Plastic
Single use plastics can at times make our lives easier, however do harm the environment and nature - try to opt for a more viable and eco-friendly option.
Dispose of Plastic Waste Accordingly
If you do have to use plastics, be sure to dispose of them in the right bin or right container; this should ensure that they will be disposed of in a safe and correct manner.
Use Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging
Biodegradable and compostable packaging are much better for the environment as they tend to be made from recycled products, but also break down much faster and therefore reduce the risk of harming the environment when disposed of.
