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By Annonciata Byukusenge
You are likely well aware of the alarming amount of plastic straws being used and the effects they are having on the environment. Convenience is something to treasure in the quick-paced world of humanity. Even while it might not seem like much, using a plastic straw or ordering takeout after a hard day at work fast adds up. Single-use plastics may be practical now, but the human race will continue to pay a heavy price for its widespread addiction to plastic in the years to come.
Why are single-use plastics harmful to the environment? What are they?
Single-use plastics, as the name implies, are products designed to be thrown away after their original usage. Typical single-use plastics include:
• Cutlery and plates are plastic
• A plastic bag
• Plastic containers
• Smoking butts
• Plastic utensils
According to Brightmark.com, The problem with single-use plastics is that consumers are using them at an absurdly rapid rate. In a landfill, plastic takes 1,000 years to decay, and during that time it doesn’t actually decompose but instead fragments into tiny plastic pieces that contaminate the ecosystem. Because they can result in health problems—like perforated organs—when consumed by wildlife, micro-plastics can be exceedingly detrimental to the environment and especially to wildlife. Marine lives (Animals that live in the ocean) suffer from plastic strangulation, which is the most severe of the impacts. Reefs, which aid in regulating the health of our seas, can get contaminated by micro plastics.
What steps may people take to cut down on their use of single-use plastics?
Fortunately, there are a variety of methods that individuals may help reduce the usage of single-use plastics. The simplest action people can take is to be aware of how much single-use plastic they use. Starting with reusable alternatives to your plastic bottles, bags, and straws is a fantastic idea. It’s also a good idea to use equipments that are biodegradable and manufactured entirely of natural materials. Another great approach to lessen your consumption of plastic bags and cutlery is to cook more meals at home rather than going out to eat. You can advocate for the decrease of single-use plastic on a bigger scale and raise awareness by using your voice.
Last but not least, reducing the consumption of single-use plastics can be done by becoming informed and educated about the current situation, looking into different ways to lessen your impact on the environment, and adopting a zero-waste lifestyle. It’s also a good idea to inform everyone in your immediate vicinity about this problem. All of mankind can continue the struggle and lessen the quantity of waste that is disposed of in the environment by working together.
