The theme for this year is ‘solutions to plastic pollution’
Photo: Author provided World Environment Day is celebrated in over 150 countries and organised by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) annually on June 5th. On this World Environment Day, it is crucial to reflect on the state of our planet and renew our commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.
The theme for this year is ‘solutions to plastic pollution’. The campaign #BeatPlasticPollution calls for global solutions to combat plastic pollution.
Ecosystems provide us with essential services, including clean air, water, food and climate regulation. However, they are under severe stress due to human activities such as deforestation, pollution, habitat destruction and climate change.
Plastic pollution has become a global crisis, posing significant threats to our environment, wildlife and human health. Each year, millions of tonnes of plastic waste end up in our oceans, rivers and landfills, causing irreversible damage. On World Environment Day 2023, it is imperative that we address this pressing issue and work towards beating plastic pollution through sustainable solutions.
The problem lies in the pervasive use of single-use plastics, such as bags, bottles, straws and packaging materials. These items are designed for convenience but have severe consequences for our planet.
Plastics do not biodegrade; instead, they break down into smaller pieces known as microplastics, which persist in the environment for centuries, harming marine life and entering our food chain.
Plastic waste in Meeru Matha beach in Sirsa village, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. Photo: Author provided
Some mind-boggling statistics on plastic pollution & beyond:
Plastic production: Since the 1950s, around 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic have been produced globally.
Plastic waste generation: In 2019, the world generated approximately 368 million tonnes of plastic waste, with only 9 per cent being recycled.
Plastic in oceans: It is estimated that 8 million tonnes of plastics enter the oceans every year, which is equivalent to dumping one garbage truck of plastic into the ocean every minute.
Microplastics: Microplastics, small plastic particles less than 5 millimetres in size, have been found in various ecosystems, including oceans, rivers and even in the air. The extent of microplastic pollution is still being studied.
Impact on wildlife: Over 800 species, including seabirds, marine mammals and turtles, are affected by plastic pollution. Animals can become entangled in plastic debris or mistakenly ingest it, leading to injuries, suffocation or death.
Biodiversity Loss: According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, around 1 million plant and animal species are currently threatened with extinction, which is more than ever before in human history.
Climate change: Global average temperatures have increased by about 1 degree Celsius since the pre-industrial era. The impacts of climate change include rising sea levels, melting glaciers and polar ice caps, more frequent and severe extreme weather events as well as disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity.
Deforestation: It is estimated that, since 1990, 420 million hectares of forest have been lost through conversion to other land uses. Deforestation contributes to climate change, loss of biodiversity and soil erosion.
Air pollution: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nine out of 10 people worldwide breathe polluted air. Air pollution is linked to various health issues, including respiratory diseases, heart problems and premature deaths.
Water scarcity: Approximately 2 billion people globally lack access to safe drinking water and around three billion people experience severe water scarcity at least a month per year, according to the report published by UNESCO on behalf of UN Water and UN 2023 Water Conference in New York.
Renewable energy: Renewable energy sources, including solar, wind and hydropower, accounted for around 16 per cent of global electricity generation capacity in 2023.
Circular economy: Less than 6 per cent of the world’s economy is currently considered circular, meaning that most resources are extracted, used and discarded without being reused or recycled.
These statistics underscore the urgent need for collective action and sustainable practices to address environmental challenges as well as protect our planet's ecosystems and resources.
Plastic waste entangles in trees suffocating the roots causing harm. Photo: Author provided
The state of our planet’s environment is a cause for concern. We continue to witness the devastating impacts of climate change, biodiversity loss, deforestation, pollution and resource depletion.
The repercussions of these issues are felt across the globe, affecting ecosystems, wildlife and human livelihoods. The alarming rise in extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods and wildfires, serves as a stark reminder of the need to prioritise environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
To combat plastic pollution, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. First, we need to prioritise the reduction of single-use plastics. Governments, businesses and individuals must collectively commit to minimising their reliance on disposable plastics. This can be achieved through the promotion of reusable alternatives, the adoption of packaging-free options and the implementation of effective waste management systems.
Education and awareness are crucial components of the solution. World Environment Day provides an ideal platform to educate people about the harmful impacts of plastic pollution and inspire behavioral change. By raising awareness about the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling plastics, we can empower individuals to make conscious choices and actively participate in the fight against plastic pollution.
Furthermore, innovation and technological advancements play a significant role in finding sustainable alternatives to plastics. Governments and industries should invest in research and development of biodegradable and compostable materials, as well as promote the use of recycled plastics. Encouraging innovation and supporting businesses that prioritise sustainable packaging solutions will drive positive change and foster a circular economy.
Legislation and policy measures are critical in tackling plastic pollution effectively. Governments must implement robust regulations to restrict the production and use of single-use plastics.
In India, the government notified Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, prohibiting identified single-use plastic items from July 2022. Additionally, established extended producer responsibility programmes ensure that plastic producers take responsibility for the entire life cycle of their products, including their proper disposal and recycling.
Partnerships and collaborations are essential for addressing plastic pollution comprehensively. Governments, businesses, non-governmental organisations and individuals must join forces to develop and implement strategies for waste reduction, recycling infrastructure and plastic waste management.
Sharing best practices, knowledge and resources will lead to more effective solutions and accelerate progress in tackling plastic pollution on a global scale.
World Environment Day 2023 serves as a call to action for every individual, community and government. The time to act is now. By embracing sustainable habits, fostering community engagement, advocating for effective policies and promoting education and awareness, we can be just inhabitants of the Earth and also its caretakers.
On this World Environment Day, let us unite with a shared commitment to protecting and preserving our environment for present and future generations. Let us renew our commitment to beat plastic pollution.
By embracing sustainable alternatives, promoting awareness, supporting innovation and advocating for strong policies, we can create a world where plastic pollution is no longer a threat.
Let us commit to being stewards of the environment, working collectively to restore ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and build a sustainable and resilient world. Together, we can create a future where humans and nature coexist harmoniously, ensuring a prosperous and thriving planet for all.
Views expressed are the authors’ own and don’t necessarily reflect those of Down To Earth.
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