Is it an evil necessity?
by JACQUELINE LUCERO
Earth Day happens every 22nd of April yearly and this year's theme "Planet vs Plastics" highlights a critical environmental issue. Google reveals that annually, a staggering 380 million tons of plastic are produced, with just nine percent being recycled.
Plastic has infiltrated nearly every aspect of our modern lives, from the gadgets we use, furniture, appliances, cosmetics, toys, and transportation, to the food we consume. Yet, its ubiquitous presence comes at a steep cost to our planet.
The biggest negative impact of plastic pollution? Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to terrestrial and marine ecosystems alike. And it does not end there.
1. Environmental degradation
Plastics take hundreds to thousands of years to break down, causing blockages in landfills and contaminating water bodies. Many of us have experienced floods during our lifetime, witnessing firsthand how trash ends up in our creeks. When heavy rain pours, our waterways rise due to the garbage overflow, persisting indefinitely since it doesn't dissolve when dumped in creeks and rivers. Yet, even now, some people thoughtlessly toss trash into these water sources. Is it truly "out of sight, out of mind"? Because when storms hit and rivers overflow, that trash comes right back to our doorsteps.
2. Wildlife endangerment
Marine animals frequently confuse plastic debris for food, resulting in ingestion and entanglement. This poses grave threats to various marine creatures, including seabirds, turtles, and fish. During our annual shore clean-ups, we're often astonished by the types of trash left behind by people. From sanitary napkins and condoms to clothing, blankets, slippers, cigarette butts, and an array of food packaging, the littering is extensive and diverse.
3. Microplastic contamination
Microplastic contamination occurs when larger plastic items degrade into tiny particles, known as microplastics. These minuscule particles infiltrate various ecosystems, including water bodies, soil, and even the air we breathe. As they disintegrate, microplastics become pervasive, spreading far and wide across the environment.
One of the most concerning consequences of microplastic contamination is its impact on the food chain. These tiny particles are ingested by marine organisms, such as fish and shellfish, which mistakenly perceive them as food. As a result, microplastics gradually accumulate within the tissues of these creatures.
When humans consume seafood contaminated with microplastics, they unwittingly introduce these particles into their own bodies. Microplastics have been detected in various other food sources, including salt, honey, and even beer. This raises serious concerns about the potential health risks associated with microplastic consumption.
Furthermore, microplastics can absorb and concentrate harmful pollutants present in the environment, such as heavy metals and chemical additives. As they make their way up the food chain, these contaminants become increasingly concentrated, posing significant health risks to both wildlife and humans.
4. Carbon footprint
Plastics play a significant role in our daily lives, but their production and disposal have far-reaching consequences. Not only do plastics contribute to pollution, but they also significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions. The process of manufacturing plastics releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Additionally, when plastics are disposed of improperly, such as through incineration, they release even more greenhouse gases, further exacerbating climate change.
Moreover, the lifecycle of plastics involves the extraction and processing of fossil fuels, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. From drilling for oil to refining it into the raw materials used in plastic production, each step in the process releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the air. This reliance on fossil fuels perpetuates our dependence on non-renewable resources and accelerates the pace of climate change.
Addressing the issue of plastics is not just about reducing waste; it's also about mitigating their impact on the environment and climate. By reducing our consumption of single-use plastics, promoting recycling and waste reduction initiatives, and investing in alternative materials and renewable energy sources, we can work towards a more sustainable future with a smaller carbon footprint.
While plastic's pervasiveness presents a formidable challenge, concerted efforts can help mitigate its impact:
1. Promote sustainable alternatives. Encourage the adoption of eco-friendly materials such as biodegradable plastics, paper, glass, bamboo, and metal.
2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink.
Embrace the mantra of reduce, reuse, recycle to minimize plastic consumption and waste generation. Adding "Rethink" emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating our consumption habits and considering alternative, more sustainable options. It encourages individuals and communities to question the status quo and seek innovative solutions to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact.
3. Legislative measures
Enact policies to limit single-use plastics, promote recycling initiatives, and incentivize businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices. Check with LGUs to see if they have solid policies that address environmental concerns. In Santa Rosa, Laguna, even the biggest store franchises have not been using plastic bags since 2008.
4. Consumer education
Raise awareness about the environmental consequences of plastic pollution and empower individuals to make informed choices. Make environmental education part of the curriculum and raise a generation of kids who love to nurture the earth.
5. Feasibility of the 60 percent reduction goal
The pledge made at the Earth Summit to reduce plastic use to 60 percent by 2040 is ambitious but achievable with concerted global action. Success will hinge on the collaboration of governments, businesses, and individuals to implement effective strategies and technologies. While challenges lie ahead, the urgency of the plastic crisis demands bold and decisive action.
Tackling plastic pollution is imperative for safeguarding the health and integrity of our planet. By reducing our reliance on plastic and embracing sustainable alternatives, we can pave the way for a healthier, more resilient Earth for generations to come. As we commemorate Earth Day, let us recommit ourselves to the battle against plastic pollution and strive for a future where our planet thrives in harmony with nature.
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