Plastic pollution is a big problem for our planet. From tiny plastic bits to large, large pieces floating in the ocean, plastic waste is everywhere—and it’s causing a lot of harm to our health, wildlife, and ecosystems. The vast majority of plastic is made from fossil fuels—crude oil, coal, and natural gas.

What is Plastic Pollution?

Plastic pollution happens when people don’t throw away plastic items like bottles, bags, wrappers, and straws properly, and these items end up in the environment. Unlike organic materials, plastic doesn’t break down naturally. Instead, it breaks into smaller pieces, called microplastics, which remain in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years.

How Does Plastic Pollution Affect Animals?

Plastic pollution harms animals, especially those in the ocean. Many animals mistake plastic for food, which can cause choking, starvation, or even death. For example, sea turtles often eat plastic bags, confusing them with jellyfish, one of their favorite foods. The University of Queensland found that 52% of sea turtles have eaten plastic debris. Eating plastic can be deadly for turtles—it can block their gut, pierce the gut wall, and release toxic chemicals into their tissues, causing serious health issues.

Plastic also harms birds and fish when they eat it or get tangled in it.

How Does Plastic Pollution Affect People?

Plastic also harms birds and fish when they eat it or get tangled in it.

Recent studies show that people unknowingly eat and breathe in microplastics every day. These tiny particles come from many sources, including seafood like fish and shellfish, which often contain microplastics. But microplastics aren’t just in food; they’ve also been found in tap water, bottled water, and even common drinks like beer. According to one study, the average adult consumes about 2,000 microplastic particles each year just from sea salt.

What Can We Do to Help?

We need to work together to address plastic pollution. Here are some steps you can take:

Reduce Plastic Use: Avoid single-use plastic items like straws, bags, and bottles. Opt for reusable alternatives such as metal water bottles, cloth bags, and reusable straws.

Recycle Correctly: Make sure that you are recycling appropriately. Not all types of plastic can be recycled, so it’s important to know what materials your local recycling program accepts. Check with your local waste management services for their guidelines.

Participate in Clean-Up Efforts: Get involved in community clean-up events to help remove plastic waste from parks, beaches, and other natural areas.
Support Policy Changes: Speak up for laws and policies that reduce plastic use and promote sustainable alternatives. Support efforts to ban single-use plastics and push for industries to switch to biodegradable materials.

Protecting Our Futures

Plastic pollution is a serious global problem, but it’s one we can solve by taking action now. Everyday changes, combined with larger societal shifts, can greatly reduce the harmful effects of plastic on our planet and our health. It’s up to all of us to make sure future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier world.

Every time you choose to reduce, reuse, or recycle plastic, you’re making a positive impact. Together, we can create a more sustainable future.

Remember, by refusing, reusing, or recycling plastic, you’re helping protect the environment. Let’s join forces to make a difference!