The environmental impact of our plastic use is complex and challenging to measure, minimize, and mitigate. While public concern is high, it hasn’t always translated into reduced consumption. Plastic products harm marine and freshwater wildlife, pose human health risks from toxins, create end-of-life waste problems, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, and have negative consequences for waste management environments. An estimated 44 million shopping bags are used in Sri Lanka each day.
The majority (around 40%) of plastic products are single-use, a significant portion of total non-fiber plastic production. The wide array of chemicals and properties in plastics are used in everyday items like cars, clothes, kitchenware, and even toys. Their affordability and durability make them ideal for consumer packaging, but these very properties also lead to long-lasting plastic waste.
Fortunately, there are many eco-friendly and long-lasting alternatives to plastic. These alternatives are often easier to recycle due to the lack of contaminants. Options include products made from clay, cement, cane, paper, cardboard, glass, metal, cloth, and plant-based materials like bamboo water bottles and wooden toothbrushes, combs, pens, cutting boards, chairs, etc. Importantly, using a reusable cloth bag or any eco-friendly alternative can significantly decrease the daily use of those 44 million shopping bags.
Nearly 40% of plastic products have a lifespan of less than a year, yet their slow decomposition creates long-term environmental consequences. Shifting away from plastic towards these alternative materials is crucial in tackling plastic pollution’s environmental problems.
Article by – Malmi Galagedara
Faculty of Management Studies
Flyer by- Thathsarani Nishadhi
Faculty of Applied Sciences