Plastic pollution is the pollution caused during manufacturing, processing, and using things made of plastic materials. Any form of pollution, if primary source of such pollution is plastic, is called plastic pollution.
Plastic is a widely used material and contributed much in the advancement of the global economy.
The decision to use plastic and plastic products was not a bad decision. In fact, products made of plastic are light-weighted and durable. Further to this, they need low maintenance. In many cases, because of their strength and durability, they help in conserving other natural resources.
However, Plastic pollution is a threat for the natural world and its inhabitants. The real threat is the abusive use of plastic products and human carelessness while disposing the plastic waste.
Causes
Plastic is being abused in many ways. Plastic is being used even for things that have a better alternative. Instead of using a bag made of cloth or jute, people prefer to use plastic bag because it is both cheap and convenient.
Any mismanagement in the process of plastic waste disposal may have an adverse impact on the environment.
Disposable plastic bags, glasses, cups, e.t.c., are meant to be disposed off after using. These items are recyclable, but not are reusable. It is a common sight to see pet bottles lying on the pavements. Improper disposal of plastic wastes such as used pet bottles, food packaging, etc., causes plastic pollution.
During rainy season, the rainwater drains into the rivers and seas. The rainwater carries with it the plastic wastes to the water bodies. In this way, the water bodies suffer from plastic pollution.
Effects
Land becomes infertile due to the presence of tiny plastic particles. The plants do not grow properly. This may contribute to the problem of food crises. It is important that we keep the agriculture soil pure, so that its productivity is preserved.
The marine ecosystem is badly affected by plastic pollution. The water gets polluted. The marine inhabitants face difficulty in coping up with the polluted environment.
Further, the improper disposal of plastic and other wastes makes the environment dirty.
Control Measures
1. Government make stringent policies to save the environment from the ill effects of plastic pollution. The policies states the manner in which the plastic products are manufactured, and then manner of their disposal. The environment belongs to all. It is the responsibility of all to adhere to the governmental policies and make sure that the environment stay unharmed.
2. While disposing the wastes, we should segregate the plastic and non-plastic wastes separately. Separate disposal of plastic wastes would ensure that these wastes doesn’t harm the environment badly.
3. Plastic pollution can be controlled to a large extent if people avoid throwing plastic rubbish in open areas such as parks, roads, pavements, rivers, etc.
Conclusion
Plastic pollution is a threat for the environment. It affects human-beings and other living creatures. If the plastic waste disposal system is robust and the waste plastic is recycled in an environment friendly manner, then we can rid of the evil called plastic pollution.