As an integral part of our daily lives due to its affordability and durability, it has become a major concern associated with climate change. The accumulation of plastic objects in the environment adversely affects wildlife, habitats and humans. This chapter discusses the pressing issue of plastic pollution and its consequences on our climate and marine ecosystems, highlighting global efforts such as the Green Deal in Europe and the United Nations' initiative for a global treaty on plastic waste.
Plastic waste in our environment in general and in the oceans and seas more specifically, is a growing problem, affecting wildlife, ecosystems and people. Every single piece of plastic that has ever been created still exists in our world, because single-use plastic is manufactured to last forever, yet is often used for only a few minutes, before being thrown away. Carrier bags, drinks bottles, coffee cups, packaging and everything plastic that has a short life, are all a big part of the issue and at the same time a big part of our daily life. Cheap and disposable, they are carried to the oceans from rivers and coastal towns and cities, or simply dumped at sea. The problem is that most of us use more of these plastics than we need to and this is the reason why it is time to act and change our daily life in a way that will contribute in fighting climate change and plastic pollution. It is an urgent call and we need to act today! By working together and each one individually, our choices can help clean up the ocean – and make Earth a safe place again.
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