Plastic Bag Pollution

How is plastic harmful to the environment?

Plastic is everywhere. It’s in our food, water bottles, clothing, toys, and even our homes. Plastic is often considered a necessary product, but many people don't realize how much damage it does to our planet. In fact, plastic pollution is becoming a serious problem worldwide.

we'll discuss the following questions:

-What types of plastics exist?

-What are some of the dangers of plastics?

-Are there any alternatives to plastics?

Plastic pollution

Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastics in our oceans and waterways. Over 80% of marine litter comes from land-based activities. Plastics are not biodegradable and take hundreds of years to break down. When they do eventually decompose, they release toxic chemicals that leach into the water supply. These toxins accumulate in the food chain and can have serious consequences for wildlife and humans.

Microplastics

Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic less than 5mm across. They enter the ocean via sewage treatment plants and drains, where they are released into rivers and streams. Once in the sea, microplastics can travel long distances away from their point of origin. They are ingested by fish and shellfish, which then pass them along to us at the dinner table.

Ocean acidification

Ocean acidification occurs when carbon dioxide dissolves into seawater, lowering its pH (acidity). As CO2 levels continue to rise, ocean waters become more acidic. Studies show that coral reefs around the world are experiencing mass bleaching events. Corals need a certain amount of alkalinity to survive, and when the water becomes too acidic, these beautiful organisms start to expel the algae that live inside them. If left untreated, many corals may die.

Debris

Debris is anything that floats in the ocean. Most debris does not sink, but instead drifts with currents until it reaches some sort of shoreline. There, it accumulates and causes damage to beaches and coastal ecosystems. In addition to being unsightly, debris can clog storm drains and prevent proper drainage of rainwater from streets and parking lots.

Marine animals

Marine animals ingest plastic particles through entanglement and ingestion. Entanglement happens when an animal gets caught in something and cannot free itself. Entangled animals often starve to death. Ingestion happens when marine animals eat plastic pellets, bits of fishing line, or any other type of plastic. Many marine animals mistake plastic for food and consume it. The plastic enters their digestive systems and can block their intestines, causing starvation.

Human health

Exposure to microplastics and other forms of plastic pollution can cause gastrointestinal problems, reproductive issues, and even cancer. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of plastic pollution. Their bodies are still developing and they put everything they encounter into their mouths.

Climate change

Climate change is caused by greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gases trap heat near Earth's surface, resulting in rising temperatures. Rising temperatures lead to increased evaporation rates, which contribute to sea level rise. Sea level rise threatens low-lying countries, including Bangladesh, Vietnam, and parts of Africa.

What types of plastics exist?

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), commonly known as PETE, is a type of plastic that is widely used in packaging materials. It is often referred to as “polyester” due to its chemical structure. PETE is a clear, hard, flexible material that is resistant to chemicals and heat. It is commonly used in food containers, water bottles, and other consumer products.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE)

High-density polyethylene is a type of plastic used in manufacturing pipes, drums, and other industrial applications. HDPE is a semi-transparent, rigid plastic that is stronger than PE and is resistant to chemicals and high temperatures.

Low-density polyethylene

Low-density polyethylene, or LDPE, is a type plastic that is commonly used in bags, wrappers, and other household goods. It is transparent, soft, and flexible, making it ideal for use in films, sheets, and other packaging materials.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a type of synthetic plastic that is durable and resistant to chemicals. It is commonly used to make piping, tubing, and other industrial applications, including plumbing fixtures. PVC is also used in some toys, clothing, and other household items.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene, or PP, is a type of thermoplastic polymer that is strong, lightweight, and highly versatile. It is commonly used for manufacturing pipes, film, and other industrial applications such as packaging.

Polystyrene

Polystyrene, or PS, is a type of thermoset plastic that is durable and lightweight. It is commonly used as insulation, packaging, and disposable cups.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate, or PC, is a type of engineering plastic that is durable, lightweight, and shatterproof. It is commonly used across many industries, including construction, transportation, and electronics.

What are some of the dangers of plastics?

Plastic is not biodegradable

Plastic is not biodegradible. When plastic breaks down, it releases toxic chemicals into the environment. These toxins have been linked to cancer, birth defects, and reproductive problems.

Plastic leaches dangerous chemicals

When plastic breaks down, it can release harmful chemicals into the ground and water. These chemicals include BPA, phthalates, and PVCs. These chemicals have been shown to cause cancer, decrease fertility rates, and harm fetal development.

Plastic doesn't decompose well

Most types of plastic don't break down easily at all. They can take thousands of years to decompose if they ever do!

Plastic isn't recyclable

Recycling only works for certain kinds of plastics. In order to recycle them, the plastic needs to be separated from other materials. However, many plastics cannot be recycled.

Plastic takes a long time to degrade

It can take hundreds of years for plastic to fully decompose.

Plastic causes microplastics

Microplastics are plastics that are less than five millimeters in size. Soil, air, and ocean currents carry these tiny plastics throughout nature. Microplastics are considered pollutants that end up in our food, water, and even human bodies.

Plastics aren't reusable

You can't use a plastic bag over and over again. Eventually, it will just get weaker and weaker and won't be able to hold its shape without bursting.

Are there any alternatives to plastics?

There are many different types of plastic products out there, and they're all pretty useful. But what if we could use something else? Well, there's actually a lot of options out there. Here are some of my favorites!

Wood

Wood is great for making things, especially if you have access to it. You can make anything from tables to toys to even tools. And since wood is biodegradable, it won't last forever. However, it does take a long time to decompose, so don't expect to find a pile of old furniture lying around anywhere.

Paper

Paper is great for writing notes, doing homework, and even playing games. It's lightweight, thin, and super portable. Plus, it doesn't break down over time like wood does.

Glass

Glass is great for lots of things. You can cook food in it, serve drinks in it, and even eat off of it. It's great for people who want to save money and not buy plates and cups constantly.

Ceramics

Ceramic pots are great for cooking food in them. They're heavy, though, so they're good for heating things up. Also, ceramic is really strong, so it can withstand high temperatures without breaking.

Clay

Clay is great for pottery projects. You can make vases, bowls, and just about anything else you'd like. It takes a while to fire clay, though, so keep that in mind before starting a project.

Metal

Metal is great for making jewelry, building stuff, and even holding keys. It's also durable enough to hold up to daily wear and tear.

Leather

Leather is a strong, flexible and durable material obtained from the tanning, or chemical treatment, of animal skins and hides to prevent decay.