INTERNATIONAL PLASTIC BAG FREE DAY: Quantum Leap Towards Circular Economy

Every year on July 3rd, people all around the world come together to celebrate International Plastic Bag Free Day, a day set aside to encourage people to lessen their plastic footprint and raise awareness of the negative environmental effects of plastic pollution. This day serves as a call to action for people, organizations, governments, and communities to take concrete actions toward a more sustainable future. 

Because of its affordability, resilience, and adaptability, plastic has transformed many industries and aspects of daily life. But the same qualities have also rendered plastic a serious threat to the environment. Roughly half of the 300 million tons of plastic manufactured annually worldwide are meant for single-use applications. It can take hundreds of years for these materials to break down in landfills, the ocean, and natural environments. Microplastics, which are now present in everything, from mountain summits to the deepest ocean, are the tiny particles that plastic breaks down throughout this time.

THE IMPACT ON WILDLIFE AND HUMAN HEALTH

For wildlife, the effects of plastic pollution are catastrophic. Plastic waste is commonly mistaken for food by marine species, which can result in ingestion that can cause harm, malnutrition, or even death. Plastic entanglement affects fish, birds, and mammals and can result in asphyxia, drowning, and limited movement. Although the effects of plastic pollution on humans are still being studied, the possibility that microplastics could enter the food chain is becoming more and more concerning. Microplastics have been discovered in drinking water, seafood, and salt, according to studies. Prolonged exposure to microplastics can have detrimental impacts on health.

WHY CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL PLASTIC FREE DAY

Raise awareness: Inform people about how plastic affects their health and environment.

Encourage alternatives: Draw attention to eco-friendly substitutes.

Encourage action: Motivate people, organizations, and governments to use less plastic and adopt environmentally friendly behaviors.

HOW TO CONTRIBUTE

Reducing the use of single-use plastics you use is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to engage. Take reusable containers, bottles, and bags with you when you shop or have a meal out. Choose products that use sustainable packaging. Lead or participate in cleanup events in the community. Since plastic debris can be found in parks, communities and beaches, these gatherings not only help clean up the pollution but also increase awareness of the problem in the community.

Advocate for policies that reduce plastic production and consumption, such as bans on single-use plastics and incentives for recycling programs. Encourage companies who are devoted to cutting plastic waste and making investments in environmentally friendly operations.

COMPANIES THAT ARE PLASTIC FREE

They are some key players in the industry campaigning and setting a perfect example for going plastic-free. Here are a few names -

Specializing in the production of dental hygiene products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, and more, GEORGANICS is dedicated to using plastic-free packaging. They also maintain a small carbon footprint by purchasing from nearby suppliers.

Ethique from New Zealand produces beauty products that are zero waste and come in bar form, making them easy to transport. All products are free of plastic packaging and are both palm oil and cruelty-free.

Stasher's items, designed specifically to minimize the use of disposable plastics, are constructed using a combination of silica and carbon. They manufacture eco-friendly snacks and produce bags for storing food that can be returned to the company once they are no longer needed and then transformed into playground pebbles.

ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY

Technology and innovation are essential for combating plastic pollution. There is hope for less plastic in the environment thanks to developments in biodegradable materials, plastic substitutes, and enhanced recycling techniques. For a sustainable future, development in these fields should be supported.

CONCLUSION

International Plastic Free Day reminds us that we must work together to find a solution to plastic pollution. We can create a healthier planet by supporting sustainable initiatives, pushing for systematic change, and making thoughtful decisions in our daily lives.

Let's use this day to reconfirm our commitment to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment.