Usually on World Environment Day, we talk about water conservation, energy crises, oceans, plantation.....
Planet Talk
Usually on World Environment Day, we talk about water conservation, energy crises, oceans, plantation, climate change, global warming, acid rains, wildlife extinction, etc.
This year, the theme is Beat Plastic Pollution to show how plastic pollution is a big threat to Earth.
It seems impossible to escape plastic in our everyday lives, as it has become a basic necessity. The facts show that by 2050, there will be more plastic than fish in the oceans.
It takes 1000 years to biodegrade, yet 300 million tonnes of plastic (roughly the weight of the entire human population) is sold annually and almost 90 percent of it is thrown away. More than 14 million tonnes of plastic is dumped into oceans every year. 50 percent of the plastic thrown is used once only.
Five trillion pieces of plastic floating around in oceans go far beyond killing sea birds. One million sea birds and 100, 000 marine creatures are killed annually due to plastic pieces. Even human beings are at risk since they consume sea food as a major part of their diet.
Plastic pollution is a serious environmental issue that needs most attention in the current scenario. World Environment Day 2018 is dedicated to creating awareness to battle this difficult situation and bring a fundamental change in human behaviour and attitude towards planet Earth.
We have to admit that our plastic footprint does matter to this planet and we need to reduce it. This is a simple reminder for all of us that our single step towards plastic pollution free planet will lead to a sustainable community.
Efforts should be made at all levels: government, community and individual. We can be the change makers and the planet savers by following the four R’s: Reduce, Refuse, Reuse and Recycle, in our daily lives. It all starts with one less plastic bag, straw, disposal plates, spoons, cups, bottles, etc.
Tips for living with less plastic
1- Bring your own shopping bags
2- Carry a reusable water bottle
3- Bring your own cup
4- Pack your lunch in reusable containers
5- Say no to disposable straws and cutlery
6- Skip the plastic produce bags
7- Slow down and dine in
8- Store leftovers in glass jars
