Plastics And The Environment

key notes :

Plastic & the Environment

• Plastic is a non-biodegradable substance. If it is left or thrown, it takes many years to get decomposed or either does not get decomposed. 
• The non-biodegradable nature of plastic has made it a very major problem for the environment.

Problems

• Plastic has become very popular and is being used for many purposes. As a result, we are generating a large amount of plastic waste. Since plastic is non-biodegradable, so plastic waste is getting accumulated around us.
• The disposal of plastic waste is a major concern as it cannot be even burnt. Burning plastic can result in the release of many harmful gases into the atmosphere. This can lead to air pollution.

Preventive Measures

• We should avoid the use of plastics things as far as possible.
• Do not throw plastic bags in the water bodies or on the road.
• The biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes should be collected separately and disposed off separately. 

For dealing with plastic waste, we should follow the three Rs:

• Reduce: We should reduce the use of plastic.
  Examples: We should use cloth or jute bag for purchasing any things instead of using plastic bags.
• Reuse: We should reuse some plastic things and containers in our homes and offices.
  Example: Empty plastic bottles and containers should be used for keeping other items in the home and kitchen.
• Recycle: Thermoplastic can be recycled. So, items made of thermoplastic should be sent to the recycling industry.
  Example: Toys, buckets, mugs etc.

1. Introduction to Plastics:
   • Plastics are synthetic materials made from polymers, which are long chains of repeating molecules.
   • They are versatile, durable, and used in various everyday products like packaging, toys, electronics, and more.
2. Types of Plastics:
   • There are two main types of plastics: thermoplastics (can be melted and molded multiple times) and thermosetting plastics (set permanently after molding).
3. Environmental Impact:
   • Plastics are non-biodegradable, meaning they don’t naturally break down over time.
   • Improper disposal leads to plastic pollution, which harms ecosystems and wildlife.
4. Plastic Pollution:
   • Plastics end up in oceans, rivers, and landfills, causing harm to aquatic life and birds.
   • Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, are a major concern as they enter the food chain.
5. Effects on Wildlife:
   • Marine animals can ingest or get entangled in plastic debris, leading to injury or death.
   • Plastics can disrupt ecosystems and threaten biodiversity.
6. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
   • Reduce plastic waste by using alternatives (e.g., cloth bags instead of plastic bags).
   • Reuse plastics when possible (e.g., refill water bottles) to lessen consumption.
   • Recycle plastics to give them a new life and reduce the need for virgin plastic production.

Let’s practice!