Plastic is one of the most commonly used materials in the world, but it has harmful effects on the environment. The following are the reasons why plastic is harmful to the environment.
Non-Biodegradable:
Plastic is non-biodegradable, which means that it doesn't break down naturally in the environment. It can take hundreds of years for plastic to decompose. As a result, plastic waste accumulates in landfills, oceans, and other bodies of water.
Pollution:
Plastic pollution is a major environmental issue that affects wildlife, marine life, and human health. Plastic waste that ends up in the ocean can harm marine life, including turtles, fish, and birds. It can also enter the food chain and harm humans who consume seafood.
Toxic Chemicals:
Plastic contains toxic chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which can leach into the environment and harm human health. These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hormones, leading to developmental and reproductive problems.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
The production of plastic contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. The extraction of fossil fuels, which are used to make plastic, and the manufacturing process both emit greenhouse gases.
Microplastics:
Plastic waste breaks down into smaller particles called microplastics, which can be harmful to marine life and enter the food chain. Microplastics have been found in tap water, bottled water, and seafood.
In conclusion, plastic is harmful to the environment because it is non-biodegradable, causes pollution, contains toxic chemicals, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and breaks down into microplastics. To reduce the harmful effects of plastic, individuals and businesses should reduce their use of plastic and recycle whenever possible.