Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash A straw for your soft drink, a candy bar wrapper, a plastic bag to carry groceries: taken individually they seem undamaging but together they are overwhelming our natural systems. Since the 1950s, the production of plastics has outpaced other materials. Many of the plastics that are produced are meant to be thrown away after just one use. These include items such as grocery bags, food packaging, bottles, straws, containers, cups, cutlery, etc. According to the US EPA, in 2018 landfills received 27 million tons of plastic. Most plastics do not biodegrade. Instead they slowly break down into smaller fragments known as microplastics. Plastic waste causes a plethora of problems when it leaks into the environment. Plastic bags can block waterways and exacerbate natural disasters. By clogging sewers and providing breeding grounds for mosquitoes and pests, plastic bags can increase the transmission of vector-borne diseases like malaria. High concentrations of plastic materials, particularly plastic bags, have been found blocking the airways and stomachs of hundreds of species. Plastic bags are often ingested by turtles and dolphins who mistake them for food. There is evidence that the toxic chemicals added during the manufacturing of plastic transfer to animal tissue, eventually entering the human food chain. Making small changes to reduce plastic in our everyday lives can help the plastic situation. Here are some ways that you can help reduce your consumption of plastics in your household:
When you cannot eliminate plastic completely, make sure to recycle plastic when you are finished with it. Many options exist for recycling materials either through your municipality or other organizations. From terracycling wrappers to recycling specialty plastics, make sure to contact your local solid waste district to find out local recycling options. For Warren County residents, you can contact Warren County Solid Waste District at 513.695.1209, or visit https://www.co.warren.oh.us/solidwaste/
5 Comments
11/9/2022 07:08:54 pm
I appreciate that you explained that our natural system is getting affected when plastic waste are spreading throughout the city, recycling is a must. Yesterday, my uncle mentioned he and his friends were hoping to find a plastic processing solution for disposing of their plastics in their homes but not in the waste. He asked if I had any idea what would be the best recycling solution. Thanks to this informative article. I'll tell him he can consult a trusted plastic processing company as they can answer all his inquiries.
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7/4/2023 09:10:55 am
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9/25/2023 09:33:58 pm
"Plastics aplenty in the bin" is a concerning reality reflecting the pervasive use of single-use plastics in our daily lives. From disposable packaging to plastic bottles and bags, our reliance on these materials has inundated landfills and oceans, leading to environmental degradation. To address this issue, it's imperative to prioritize reducing plastic consumption, reusing whenever possible, and promoting effective recycling practices. Additionally, governments, industries, and individuals should collaborate to drive innovation in sustainable alternatives and waste management systems. Only through collective efforts can we mitigate the plastic pollution crisis and protect our planet for future generations.
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1/30/2024 06:30:58 am
Your inclusion of the "Plastic Diet Challenge" is a stroke of genius. It transforms the daunting task of reducing plastic consumption into a fun and achievable mission. It's a rallying cry for readers to be mindful of their plastic footprint without feeling overwhelmed.
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Warren County SWCD Staff BlogA blog to keep you informed on all the latest news at Warren County SWCD and in the conservation world. Archives
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