By Debaprasad Misra
World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 which to encourage awareness and action for the protection of the environment. First held in 1972 it has been a platform for raising awareness on environmental issues such as over population, global warming, sustainable development, wildlife crime, land pollution, water pollution, air pollution, marine pollution and noise pollution etc. The day was established in 1972 by the United Nations at the Stockholm Conference on the human environment that had resulted from discussions on the integration of human interactions and the environment. Two Years later, in 1974, the first world Environment Day was held with the theme ‘Only One Earth’.
We are observing the 53rd World Environment Day this year on this very day focusing on the critical issue of ending plastic pollution. Environmental pollution is the biggest problem that the world is facing today. Owing to the rapid increase in population and the development in the field of Science and Technology, the problem of environmental pollution and degradation has crossed its limit. Environmental Pollution can be defined by any undesirable change in the physical, chemical or biological characteristics of any component of the environment which can cause harmful effects on various forms of life or property. On the other hand, for normal and healthy living, a conducive environment is required by all leaving beings including humans, life stock, plants, microorganisms and the wild life. This year’s theme “Ending plastic Pollution” aims to raise awareness about the global plastic crisis. Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic in the environment, causing harm to wild life habitats and human populations. It is a Global issue with a wide range of impacts, from entanglement and ingestion by marine animals to the introductions of micro plastics into the food chains. Most of the pollution that threatens our planet today is caused by human activities.
In short, pollution is a threat to our existence. The major causes of plastic pollution are: land based sources, single used plastics, inefficient waste management, wild life impacts, environmental impacts, economic impacts etc. Plastic pollution indeed permeates every corner of the Planet- even in our bodies in the form of micro plastics. This type of pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing the planet today. The majority of plastic pollution comes from single use plastics like bags, bottles, packaging and straws. These items often escape waste management systems and accumulate in natural environments. Plastic Pollution disrupts marine life, chokes animals, pollutes water and contributes to climate change through the production and degradation of plastic. It can take hundreds of years for plastic to decompose, leading to long-lasting environmental damage. Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue, but a social and economic issue as well. Though useful, plastic damages the environment. There are three major forms of plastic pollution : Micro, Marco, and Mega plastics. Both mega and macro plastics are found in packaging, footwear and other domestic items that have been washed off or discarded in landfills.
Plastic is indeed a general term for a wide range of synthetic materials that are solid objects of diverse shapes. Developed in the 1860s, plastic is one of the most important materials in modern society. Toys, athletic goods and durable household goods are heavy users of plastic. The soft-drinks, personal products and Pharmaceutical sectors are among the most intensive users of plastic packaging. It is the non-bio-degradable nature of Plastic which is mainly responsible for causing a massive environmental problem. Chemical additives used in plastic goods are hazardous to human health. Disposing of plastic by burning only creates more toxic fumes. The Plastic carry bag has become a common item all over the World. Certain plastics can be recycled. Many household articles like water containers and buckets are made of recycled plastics. Non reusable items include carry bags, cups, plates and magazine wrappers. Even in these cases, eco-friendly plastics are available as options. The plastic industry cites the advantages of convenience- low cost, employment potential, recycling possibilities etc.
Ending plastic pollution is a great challenge. However, it may be possible through individual, co-ordinated global efforts. Plastic Production should be reduced and use of plastic bags, straws, cutlery etc. Instead, alternatives like biodegradable, compostable or reusable materials like glass, paper, bamboo etc, should be encouraged. Designing sustainability by creating products that are reusable, durable and recyclable is of urgent necessity today. It is our duty to develop biodegradable plastics and better recycling technologies. It is our prime duty to carry reusable bags, bottles and containers. National campaign like Swachh Bharat should integrate anti-plastic messaging.
World Environment Day is a call to action for individuals, communities and organizations to make a positive impact on the Environment. We should adapt sustainable practices in our day-to-day life by embracing the mantra of “reduce, reuse, and recycle”. It is our duty to join hands with local Government initiatives, clean-up campaigns, tree-planting drives or educational seminars.
Environmental Conservation is not a one-day event, but a lifelong commitment. Let this day be a starting point for adopting sustainable practices and encouraging others to join the cause. Together we can create a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come. Let us embrace the principles of sustainability, stewardship and harmony with nature on World Environment Day. Environment belongs to all, influences all and is important to all. It is one subject that is actually global as well as local in nature. It is undoubtedly true that we are surrounded by plastics. Considering its ecological and environmental hazard, we should lay greater emphasis on pollution prevention than pollution control. The role of every individual in preventing pollution is of paramount importance today. Though our country has banned the use of carry bags made of plastic films of thickness this rule is not being implemented seriously. Concerted and collective efforts should be made by all concerned to make an end of the rapid use of plastics as it is hazardous to us.
(The writer is Registrar, NERIM Group of Institutions)