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.
Article #1 Plastic Pollution
Article #2 Little Plastic, Big Problem
Plastics have become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives, from the packaging of our groceries to the utensils we use at fast food restaurants. However, the convenience of plastics comes with a significant cost to the environment. According to the article "Plastic Pollution," plastic waste has become a major environmental concern, with an estimated 8 million tons of plastic entering the oceans each year. This plastic pollution has devastating effects on marine life, with millions of birds, fish, and other animals dying each year due to entanglement or ingestion of plastic debris.
In addition to harming marine life, plastic pollution also poses a threat to human health. As plastics break down into smaller pieces, they can release toxic chemicals that can contaminate water sources and food supplies. Studies have shown that these chemicals can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to a range of health problems including infertility, cancer, and developmental disorders. This highlights the urgent need to address the issue of plastic pollution before it causes further harm to our ecosystems and ourselves.
One possible solution to the problem of plastic pollution is to reduce our reliance on single-use plastics. As mentioned in the article "Little Plastic, Big Problem," single-use plastics make up a significant portion of plastic waste, and implementing bans or taxes on these items can help reduce the amount of plastic entering the environment. In addition, promoting the use of alternative materials such as biodegradable plastics or reusable containers can also help to decrease our plastic footprint.
Another solution to plastic pollution is improved waste management practices. Proper disposal and recycling of plastic waste can prevent it from ending up in our oceans and waterways. Increasing access to recycling facilities and educating the public on the importance of recycling can help to reduce the amount of plastic waste that is improperly disposed of. Additionally, investing in technologies that can effectively recycle and repurpose plastic waste can help to create a circular economy for plastics, reducing the need for new plastic production.
Ultimately, addressing the issue of plastic pollution requires a combination of individual actions, government regulations, and corporate responsibility. By reducing our use of single-use plastics, improving waste management practices, and investing in sustainable alternatives, we can work towards a future where plastic pollution is no longer a threat to our planet and its inhabitants. It is imperative that we take action now to protect our environment and ensure a healthier, cleaner world for future generations.