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.
So much of what we consume is made of plastic, since it is inexpensive, yet durable. However, plastic is slow to degrade- taking over 400 years or more- because of its chemical structure, which presents a huge challenge. Not only that, but also it is threatening the ability of the global community to keep global temperature rise below 1.5°C, as greenhouse gases (GHG) are emitted throughout the plastic life cycle. Indeed, extraction, refining and manufacture of plastics are all carbon intensive activities, not to mention the emissions from when it’s being incinerated as a part of the waste disposal.
For all these reasons, reducing plastic consumption and raising awareness about plastic recycling is crucial if we truly want to overcome the problem of plastic waste and protect our home-planet before it is too late.
