Rebecca Manzi Every year we produce over 500 billion plastic bags: a petition aims to try to reduce global plastic production by 60% by 2040
Plastic bags have become a stark symbol of the environmental crisis linked to plastic. Each year, the world produces over 500 billion plastic bags, equating to one million bags per minute. These bags, often used for just a few minutes, have a devastating impact on the environment and human health, particularly because 95% of all plastic in the United States will not be recycled.
The massive production and its consequences
The production of plastic bags carries several negative consequences. Primarily, the plastic used in their production is sourced from petroleum, contributing to increased greenhouse gas emissions and the depletion of non-renewable resources. Additionally, many of these bags end up dispersed in the environment after use, contaminating land, waters, and marine ecosystems.
Impact on wildlife and the food chain
The issue with plastic bags is not limited to their dispersion in the environment; it also concerns their impact on wildlife and the food chain. Many marine and terrestrial species ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for food, often with fatal outcomes.
Furthermore, these bags break down into small fragments, known as microplastics, which can be ingested by fish and other marine animals. This introduces plastic into the food chain, potentially reaching humans through the consumption of fish.
Aiming for a 60% reduction in global plastic production by 2040
The irresponsible use and disposal of plastic bags thus pose a significant threat to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. Concrete measures are urgently needed to address this problem by drastically reducing the production and use of single-use plastic bags.
Earth Day 2024 emphasized the importance of ending the production of single-use plastics, including the vast number of plastic bags produced. This year’s theme, “Planet versus Plastic,” is an urgent call to end our dependence on plastic.
The goal of reducing global plastic production by 60% by 2040 is an ambitious but necessary challenge to protect our planet and future generations. According to Earthday.org, the environmental organization coordinating the global campaign, it is crucial to build a plastic-free future for the coming generations.
Promoting sustainable alternatives
It is essential to promote sustainable alternatives to plastic bags, such as reusable bags or biodegradable materials. Additionally, it is necessary to raise public awareness about the risks associated with the use and disposal of plastic bags and to promote more responsible and conscious behaviors.
A petition to support the Global Plastics Treaty can be signed at https://action.earthday.org/global-plastics-treaty. Only through a global and coordinated effort can we effectively address the crisis of plastic bags and protect our planet for future generations.
