By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY

The World Ambassador

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ISLAMABAD: Plastic pollution has become a serious environmental issue worldwide, and the problem is rapidly increasing in Pakistan. The excessive use of plastic bags, bottles, and packaging in daily life poses a severe threat to the environment, public health, and natural resources.

What Is Plastic Pollution?

Plastic is a synthetic material made primarily from petroleum. It does not decompose naturally or quickly. As a result, plastic waste remains in the environment for years, accumulating in land and water, and eventually breaking down into microplastics.

Environmental Impacts of Plastic Pollution

1) Water Pollution

Plastic waste travels through drains and canals into rivers and seas, where:

Fish and turtles ingest plastic, mistaking it for food
Aquatic ecosystems are disrupted
Sources of drinking water can become contaminated

2) Soil Pollution

Plastic buried in the ground:

Reduces soil fertility
Affects crop productivity
Prevents proper absorption of rainwater

3) Air Pollution

Burning plastic:

Releases toxic smoke
Increases respiratory and skin diseases
Worsens overall environmental pollution

4) Impact on Wildlife

Birds and animals become trapped in plastic waste or ingest it as food, putting their lives at serious risk.

Microplastics and Human Health

Microplastics can enter the human body through water, fish, and food. According to experts, they may:

Disrupt the hormonal system
Cause long-term health problems

Root Causes of the Problem

Excessive use of single-use plastics
Lack of effective recycling systems
Low public awareness
Poor waste management practices

Solutions: What Should We Do?

At the Individual Level

Use cloth or paper bags
Choose reusable bottles
Avoid plastic straws and disposable cutlery

At the Community and Government Level

Enforce strict bans on single-use plastics
Establish recycling plants
Launch public awareness campaigns

Plastic pollution is a challenge that can only be addressed through collective action. If we adopt responsible habits today, we can ensure a cleaner and safer environment for future generations.