The Plastic Problem: Why Tackling Pollution Matters for Sustainable Living

Md. Jannatul Naeem Jibon
Jun 2
2 min read

Updated: Jun 2

What is Plastic Pollution?

Plastic is everywhere—in the water we drink, the food we consume, and the air we breathe. Addressing plastic pollution throughout its entire lifecycle is essential to protect both human health and the environment, as well as to ensure sustainable development.

Plastic pollution is the buildup of plastic items and tiny plastic particles, such as bottles, bags, and microbeads, in the natural world. This pollution harms people, wildlife, and their habitats.

The Importance of Tackling Plastic Pollution

Eliminating plastic pollution is crucial for achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate action (SDG 13), responsible production and consumption (SDG 12), protecting marine life (SDG 14), and preserving ecosystems and biodiversity (SDG 15).

The Scale and Impact of Plastic Pollution

Every year, the world produces about 430 million metric tons of new plastic. If this trend continues, plastic use could nearly triple by 2060. Unfortunately, most plastic products are used only once before being discarded. This “take-make-waste” approach has led to 79% of plastic waste accumulating in landfills or natural environments, 12% being burned, and less than 10% recycled.

Plastic pollution causes the following damage:

Ecosystem Harm: Millions of tons of plastics enter the environment annually, destroying habitats, harming wildlife, and disrupting vital natural processes. Around 88% of marine species are affected by plastic pollution.
Climate Crisis Acceleration: Plastics are derived from fossil fuels, and the plastic industry is the fastest-growing source of industrial greenhouse gases. In 2019, plastic production and burning released as much greenhouse gas as 189 coal-fired power plants. Without action, plastic pollution threatens global efforts to keep temperature rise below 1.5°C.
Human Health Risks: Plastic poses health hazards throughout its life cycle. Microplastics have been detected in human lungs, blood, and breast milk. From extraction to disposal, plastics release harmful chemicals that can affect immune and hormone systems and increase cancer risks.

Strategies to Combat Plastic Pollution

To address plastic pollution effectively, the following solutions are essential:

Reduce Single: Use Plastics – Minimize reliance on disposable plastic items.
Improve Waste Management and Recycling: Enhance collection, sorting, and recycling infrastructure.
Promote Biodegradable and Alternative Materials: Support the development and use of eco-friendly substitutes.
Raise Public Awareness and Education: Inform communities about the impacts of plastic and how to reduce waste.
Enforce Producer Responsibility: Hold manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their plastic products.