Environmental pollution caused by plastic
Humans produce excessive amounts of plastics while insufficiently recycling or repurposing their use. Humans have produced several billion metric tons of plastic waste since plastics were invented (Townsend 58). Mass production of plastics for disposable products has accelerated so rapidly, yet most of it ends up as trash. Parker estimates that 8.3 billion metric tons of plastics have been produced since the 1950s. Moreover, Parker observes that only ten percent of plastics are recycled. The low rate of recycling of plastics is a concern for the environment because plastic takes more than three centuries to decay (Verhaeghe). Furthermore, Parker posits that world governments and other relevant stakeholders do not adequately measure the production or disposal of plastics. Consequently, it becomes a challenge to manage a problem that is not measured. Undeniably, humans produce excessive amounts of disposable plastic while only recycling ten percent of the reusable plastic.
Environmental pollution caused by plastic has adverse effects on the environment, including the disruption of natural systems and global warming. Most plastics produced are disposed in landfills but end up in the ocean, which causes irreparable damage to birds, fish, and other marine wildlife (Gottschau). (cite 30) observes that climate-driven droughts resulting from changes in the ocean currents will lead to droughts in the near future. Plastics are also disposed of through incineration. However, the combustion of plastics results in the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which destroys the ozone layer (Gottschau). CFCs are greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming, which leads to climate change.
Several initiatives are trying to reduce the reliance and production of plastics. One approach is replacing banning the use of single-use plastics such as plastic straws. Another approach involves identifying alternatives to plastics, such as paper bags and cartons (Gottschau). As some initiatives seek to reduce the current use of plastics, others focus on waste management of plastics. Managing plastic waste is now a global initiative from various stakeholders that includes the rethinking of synthetic composition, chemistry, product design, and recycling tactics (Gottschau). Finally, there are micro-level efforts among individuals, such as using reusing plastics for decorative purposes.
Mass production of plastics coupled with insufficient recycling of plastic leads to environmental pollution by plastics. Environmental pollution by plastics has detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Accordingly, manufactures should eliminate the use of the single-use plastics and increase recycling efforts of plastics. Moreover, scientists should develop biodegradable alternatives for plastics. Finally, consumers should contribute to reducing the effects of plastics on the environment by recycling the plastics they buy