How to Reduce Plastic Pollution
How to Reduce Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, with plastic waste littering our oceans and harming marine life, and microplastics found in our food and water supply. The problem is vast, but there are solutions that can make a significant impact.
One of the most effective ways to reduce plastic waste is to reduce our overall consumption of single-use plastics. This includes items such as plastic bags, straws, cutlery, and beverage cups. By using reusable alternatives, we can dramatically cut down on the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and the ocean. For example, a study published in the journal “Science Advances” found that single-use plastic bags alone contribute to the death of an estimated 100,000 marine animals and one million seabirds annually (Geyer, Jambeck & Law, 2017)
Another important step is to improve recycling and waste management infrastructure. This includes investing in more advanced recycling technologies, and making sure that people have access to recycling facilities and education on how to properly recycle. Additionally, Governments, NGO’s and corporations can also take a lead to ban non-recyclable plastics, establish product responsibility laws and make the production process more environmentally friendly. According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, improving recycling systems could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 4.5 billion metric tons by 2050 (The New Plastics Economy, 2016).
Additionally, reducing plastic packaging in products and encouraging product design that is easier to recycle or is made from biodegradable or compostable materials could also reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in the environment. The UNEP (2018) reported that by redesigning product packaging, it could be possible to reduce plastic usage by around one third.
Another solution is the implementation of deposit return schemes for drink containers. This would increase recycling rates and reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment. A study by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency found that deposit return systems for beverage containers increased recycling rates by as much as 96% (Denmark Ministry of Environment, 2002).
Innovation in bio-based plastics that can be sustainably produced, composted or degraded as well, can also help to reduce the environmental impact of plastic pollution. The Biodegradable Products Institute states that bioplastics made from plant-based materials can help to reduce the amount of fossil fuel-based plastics in the environment (Bioplastics, 2017)
It’s also essential to raise awareness about the issue of plastic pollution and the importance of reducing our plastic use. Through education and awareness-raising campaigns, individuals, communities, and companies can be inspired to take action to reduce their plastic footprint. A campaign by the Plastic Pollution Coalition called “The Last Plastic Straw” encourages businesses to stop offering plastic straws to customers, helping to reduce plastic waste (Plastic Pollution Coalition, 2017)
In conclusion, solving the problem of plastic pollution will require a combination of individual action and systemic change. By reducing our consumption of single-use plastics, improving recycling and waste management, and encouraging innovation in sustainable materials, we can make a real impact in the fight against plastic pollution.
Read our previous article on the Pros and Cons of Biogas as a Cooking Fuel.
References:
- Geyer, R., Jambeck, J.R., Law, K.L. (2017) Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made. Science Advances, 3(7), e1700782.
- The New Plastics Economy (2016). Rethinking the future of plastics. Ellen MacArthur Foundation
- The UNEP (2018) Single-Use Plastics: A roadmap for Sustainability
- Denmark Ministry of Environment (2002) – study on the effects of deposit return systems for beverage containers on recycling rates
- Biodegradable Products Institute (2017) – information on the potential of bioplastics made from plant-based materials to reduce the amount of fossil fuel-based plastics in the environment
- Plastic Pollution Coalition (2017) – information about the “The Last Plastic Straw” campaign, which encourages businesses to stop offering plastic straws to customers.
