Four to five trillion plastic bags are manufactured every year. Plastic bags are very popular with both retailers as well as consumers because they are cheap, strong, lightweight, functional, as well as a hygienic means of carrying food as well as other goods. Even though they are one of the modern conveniences that we seem to be unable to do without, they are responsible for harming the environment, killing wildlife, and using up the precious resources of the earth. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over three hundred billion plastic bags are used each year in the US alone and one hundred billion of those wind up in the trash. Less than 5% of plastic bags are recycled.
Plastic bags are used for an average of ten minutes before they are disposed of. Plastic bags litter our oceans, parks, beaches, and streets. And, if they are burned, they infuse the air with toxic fumes. Plastic bags are responsible for the killing of over 100,000 animals such as dolphins, turtle’s whales, sea lions, and penguins every year. Many animals ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for food, and therefore die. Plastic bags are non-biodegradable. The decomposition of plastic bags takes at least 500years and when they do break down toxic substances enter the soil. Plastic bags are made with fossil fuels which are a non renewable energy source. Plastic production uses approximately eight percent of the world’s oil production.
The following steps can be taken to lessen the impact of plastic bags on the environment: reuse plastic bags, recycle plastic bags by returning them to the store, or use paper bags; you can also use reusable shopping bags which are made from renewable materials. Reusable bags are convenient and come in a variety of sizes. If all of us refuse to use plastic bags, we can make a difference to the environment and the health and welfare of all living things.
Lynne
Great post, Lynne.
I always use jute bags now – wish I could remember to put them in the car each time though…have to keep buying new ones!
Enjoy the journey.
Mandy