THE PLASTIC POLLUTION CRISIS
THE GLOBAL PLASTIC EPIDEMIC
Single-use plastics are primarily derived from fossil fuels, such as oil and natural gas. The extraction and production of these materials contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. By reducing single-use plastics, we can decrease our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental degradation.
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is one of the most well-known areas of plastic accumulation in the ocean. It is located in the North Pacific Gyre and is estimated to contain a significant concentration of the single-use plastic debris of we discard. However, it's important to note that ocean garbage patches are not limited to the North Pacific Gyre and can be found in the four other ocean gyres.
PROBLEMATIC IMPACT OF PLASTIC POLLUTION
Microplastics in Food and Water: Microplastics have been found in various food and water sources, including seafood, tap water, and even bottled water. When consumed, microplastics can accumulate in human tissues and organs, potentially causing inflammation, immune responses, and other health concerns.
The long-term impacts of microplastic ingestion are still being studied.
Ecosystem Disruption: Marine plant and animal life disruption occurs when plastic infiltrates marine environments, triggering a chain of negative effects. This infiltration can lead to habitat alteration, disturbance of nutrient cycles, and the introduction of harmful chemicals into the ecosystem as the plastic undergoes degradation.
Chemical Leaching: Many single-use plastics contain harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which leach into food, water, and beverages when exposed to heat or prolonged use. These chemicals have been linked to various health issues, including hormonal problems, reproductive problems, and certain types of cancers.
