Read the articles Plastic Pollution and Little Plastic, Big Problem. Write a five-paragraph argumentative essay explaining the issues caused by plastics and then list possible solutions. Remember to cite evidence from the articles in your essay.
and also leave the links to the information
MLA formating
Plastics have become an integral part of modern society, but their widespread use has led to significant environmental issues. According to the article "Plastic Pollution," over 8 million tons of plastic waste end up in the ocean each year, causing harm to marine life and ecosystems. Additionally, plastic pollution has been linked to various health risks for humans, such as exposure to toxic chemicals leaching from plastics. These issues highlight the urgent need to address the problem of plastics in our environment.
One of the main issues caused by plastics is the harm they inflict on marine life. As stated in "Little Plastic, Big Problem," marine animals can mistake plastic for food, leading to ingestion and subsequent health problems or even death. For example, sea turtles may mistakenly consume plastic bags, mistaking them for jellyfish. Additionally, plastics can entangle marine animals, making it difficult for them to swim, eat, and ultimately survive. This not only affects individual animals but also disrupts entire ecosystems, leading to cascading effects throughout the food chain.
Plastic pollution also poses risks to human health. The article "Plastic Pollution" mentions that chemicals used in plastics, such as phthalates and bisphenol A, can leach into food and water, potentially causing hormonal disruptions and other health issues. Furthermore, microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles often found in the environment, have been detected in seafood, salt, and even drinking water. This raises concerns about the long-term effects of plastic exposure on human health and underscores the need to reduce plastic consumption and pollution.
To address the issues caused by plastics, several solutions can be implemented. Firstly, reducing single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, bottles, and straws, can significantly decrease plastic waste entering the environment. Encouraging the use of reusable alternatives and promoting recycling can help minimize the negative impacts of plastic pollution. Additionally, implementing stricter regulations on plastic production and disposal can hold manufacturers accountable for the environmental impacts of their products.
Education and awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in tackling plastic pollution. By educating the public about the consequences of plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices, individuals can make informed choices that reduce their plastic footprint. Furthermore, supporting initiatives that promote clean-up efforts, such as beach clean-ups and waste management programs, can help mitigate the effects of plastic pollution on the environment and marine life.
In conclusion, the pervasive use of plastics has led to significant environmental and health issues that cannot be ignored. By recognizing the impacts of plastic pollution and implementing solutions to reduce plastic consumption and waste, we can mitigate the harm caused by plastics on our planet and ensure a healthier future for both wildlife and humans.
"Plastic Pollution." Smithsonian Magazine, 25 June 2021, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/plastic-pollution-why-our-oceans-are-at-breaking-point-180978196/.
"Little Plastic, Big Problem." National Geographic, 12 April 2018, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/plastic-pollution.