(a) Write Two Harmful Effects of Using Plastic Bags On the Environment. Suggest Alternatives to The Usage of Plastic Bags. (b) List Any Two Practices That Can Be Followed to Dispose of the Waste Produced in Our Homes


Introduction

Plastic bags are widely used for carrying goods and commodities all over the world. They are lightweight, strong, and affordable. However, the extensive use of plastic bags has led to a disastrous effect on the environment. The plastic bags are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose.

The article below discusses two harmful effects of using plastic bags on the environment and suggest alternatives to their usage. Furthermore, we will list two practices that can be followed to dispose of the waste produced in our homes.

Two Harmful Effects of Using Plastic Bags on the Environment

Pollution of Land and Water

Plastic bags are non-biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. When they are discarded, they end up in landfills or oceans. In landfills, plastic bags take up space and do not decompose.

In oceans, they harm marine life by getting entangled in their bodies or by being mistaken for food. Plastic bags also release harmful chemicals into the environment when they decompose. These chemicals can seep into the soil and water, leading to pollution of the land and water.

Moreover, plastic bags also contribute to the pollution of the air when they are burned. Burning plastic bags release harmful gases like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and dioxins into the air. These gases can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

Damage to Wildlife

Plastic bags pose a significant threat to wildlife. Animals often mistake plastic bags for food and ingest them. This can lead to choking or blockages in their digestive system, which can be fatal. Moreover, plastic bags can entangle and suffocate animals, causing them to die a slow and painful death.

In addition, plastic bags that end up in waterways can harm aquatic life. The bags can entangle and suffocate fish, turtles, and other aquatic animals. Plastic bags can also release harmful chemicals into the water, leading to the pollution of waterways and damaging the ecosystem.

Alternatives to The Usage of Plastic Bags

Reusable Bags

One of the best alternatives to plastic bags is reusable bags. These bags are made from materials like cotton, canvas, or jute, which are biodegradable and do not harm the environment. Reusable bags are sturdy, durable, and can be used multiple times. They are also available in various sizes and designs, making them a stylish and eco-friendly option.

Paper Bags

Another alternative to plastic bags is paper bags. Paper bags are biodegradable and decompose quickly, making them a better option for the environment than plastic bags. Paper bags are also recyclable and can be used to make other paper products, reducing the need for virgin paper.

Two Practices to Dispose of Waste Produced in Our Homes

Composting

Composting is a process that involves breaking down organic waste into a nutrient-rich soil amendment called compost. Composting can be done at home using kitchen scraps like fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells. Composting reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and produces a natural fertilizer that can be used in gardens or for houseplants.

Recycling

Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new products. Recycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and conserves natural resources. Materials like paper, plastic, metal, and glass can be recycled. Recycling can be done at home by separating recyclable materials from non-recyclable materials and putting them in the appropriate bins.

Conclusion

The extensive use of plastic bags has led to a disastrous effect on the environment. Plastic bags are non-biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to pollution of land, water, and air. Plastic bags also pose a significant threat to wildlife, causing harm to both marine and terrestrial animals. Therefore, it is crucial to find alternatives to plastic bags and adopt practices to dispose of the waste produced in our homes.

Using reusable bags or paper bags instead of plastic bags is an effective way to reduce plastic waste and prevent further harm to the environment. Reusable bags are not only eco-friendly, but they are also durable and can be used multiple times, making them a cost-effective option in the long run. Paper bags are biodegradable and recyclable, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Moreover, composting and recycling are two practices that can be followed to dispose of waste produced in our homes. Composting reduces the amount of organic waste that ends up in landfills and produces a natural fertilizer that can be used for gardening. Recycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and conserves natural resources by converting waste materials into new products.

In conclusion, the harmful effects of plastic bags on the environment are undeniable. However, by adopting alternative practices and disposing of waste responsibly, we can reduce our impact on the environment and protect wildlife from harm. It is up to us to take action and make a difference for a cleaner and healthier plane.

Updated on: 04-May-2023

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