Earth Day Resolution: End Plastic Pollution

By: Umair Raza (National Secretary, Positive Pakistan)

As the world moved towards development from the non-industrial era, the extent of urbanization got higher and the migration from rural to urban areas also got accelerated with time. This caused pressure on the society. So, in order to meet the needs of the rising population, industries introduced the concept of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) plastics in the society. Due to its cheap, lightweight and portative nature, plastics are now widely used in the world. As the population is rising tremendously over time, plastic consumption is also increasing at an exponential rate. But unfortunately, it could not dispose of properly due to its non-degradable nature.

Plastic pollution can be reduced by many ways:

• Stop using those plastic goods that are used only once i.e., straws, disposable cutlery, coffee-cup lids, plastic wraps etc. 
• Make a replacement for those goods which are reusable and recyclable ones.
• Stop buying plastic water bottles. Each year, around 20 billion water bottles are thrown into the trash.
• Try to carry reusable bottles along with yourself.
• Try to cook your own food, because your own meal doesn’t require any takeout container or bags. It will reduce the consumption of plastic cutlery.
• Bring your own cutlery with yourself even when you eat outside restaurants.
• Try to purchase secondhand goods which do not carry plastic packaging.
• Support tax on the plastic bags in order to stop the plastic bags manufacturing in the society.
• Start creating awareness through social media, advocacy sessions among, universities, colleges in order to highlight the damages of plastic pollution and reducing its consumption.
• By changing habitats, we can create a difference in society by making a much bigger footprint.