With an estimated annual production of 78 million tonnes of plastic, only 14% of which is recycled, plastic pollution poses a serious threat to our environment.
To combat plastic pollution, the federal government has unveiled a comprehensive 10-year plan. This initiative, spearheaded by the ministry of climate change, will be carried out in collaboration with provincial governments and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
At its core, the plan aims to curtail the consumption of plastic bags and other disposable plastics, simultaneously fostering recycling efforts and waste reduction measures. The government is actively seeking feedback from trade organisations and the general public regarding this ambitious plan to combat plastic pollution.
With an estimated annual production of 78 million tonnes of plastic, only 14% of which is recycled, plastic pollution poses a serious threat to our environment. The remaining majority damages ecosystems when it enters landfills, oceans, and other natural habitats. In addition to harming wildlife, this pollutes waterways and exacerbates the negative effects of climate change.
The government’s plan represents a commendable stride towards combating this crisis. However, in order to bring about real change, it is imperative that every person actively participate.
People can significantly reduce their plastic footprint by embracing simple but effective habits like using reusable bags, straws, and utensils as well as recycling and composting whenever practical.
Businesses can also contribute by minimizing their reliance on single-use plastics and by offering recycling and composting facilities for their patrons.
According to experts, consumers should make “green choices” at home by selecting products with less plastic packaging. They should steer clear of cosmetics and personal hygiene products containing microbeads and move away from the throwaway culture.
“We should readopt our traditional way of shopping in which people used to bring their own reusable bags,” a government official has stated. Straws made of plastic are typically not recyclable, making them one of the most common marine plastics. Therefore, we will consult with private companies to determine its alternative.”
“We create a lot of litter as a society, and a lot of our waste is made of plastic,” he stated. We can have an impact if we reduce our waste. It takes north of 400 years for plastic to disintegrate, which is an unquestionably prolonged stretch of time considering how much plastic we really want to dispose of.”