Pollution is the excessive use of substances that disrupt ecological balance and cause health issues. Plastic pollution, a significant concern, results from the widespread use of polythene and plastic, which, despite their benefits, now cause severe environmental and health problems.

Plastic pollution leads to ecosystem disruption, habitat destruction, and health issues in wildlife and humans. Marine life is severely impacted as animals ingest plastic, leading to gastrointestinal problems and toxic accumulation. Plastics in soil take centuries to degrade, altering soil properties and harming plant and microorganism growth. Non-biodegradable plastics break into microplastics, further disrupting ecosystems.

Animals ingesting plastic suffer feeding issues and mortality. Microplastics in food pose health risks to humans, including endocrine dysfunction, cancers, and reproductive disorders. Plastic pollution also strains government resources for cleanup, affects tourism, and promotes habitats for disease-spreading pests. Additionally, degrading plastics emit greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change.

To mitigate these effects, a comprehensive approach is needed: reducing plastic consumption and production, improving waste management, promoting recycling, and developing alternatives. Collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities is essential to reduce plastic pollution and achieve sustainability.

Article by – Krikashi Rajapaksha
Faculty of Applied Sciences

Flyer by – Sanduni Jayawardena
Faculty of Applied Sciences