KNYSNA NEWS - Over the years we have seen the impact of plastic pollution become more and more extreme. The question is, why don't we ever stop? Stop littering and carelessly dumping wrappers and lollipop sticks everywhere – except in the bin.
Why don't we simply stop and take three seconds of our time to pick up a bottle cap that just happened to be stepped on and throw it away? Well, maybe it's because we just don't care. Though, not caring does not help anyone anymore.
It's a pity that the majority's selfish attitude has an effect on the entire human race. It is also due to this way of living that about 6.3-billion kg of plastic land up in our oceans each year – that's about 680 000kg each hour and to which we owe the loss of marine life and destruction of vegetation.
Harmful to humans too
Not only does plastic pollution have an effect on the environment, it is also rather harmful to us as humans. As plastic finds its way into our main water sources, toxins and hazardous chemicals leak into the water.
These chemicals then land up in our bloodstream and bodily tissue, which can be linked to cancer, hormonal imbalance, impaired immunity and other potentially terminal, but preventable health ailments. Lastly, not only is plastic pollution harmful but also displeasing to the eye, resulting in some countries losing millions each year in the tourism industry and many more in the attempt to clean up the mess.
Sadly, what's done is done and cannot be undone. Now all that remains is to do all it takes to fix what has the ability to be fixed and prevent past mistakes from repeating in the future. We can start doing so by reducing through reusing, be it purchasing a metal bottle that could be filled and refilled, making it reusable, unlike the standard bottled water that will most likely be used only once.
How about buying local and organic groceries? Not only does it support local entrepreneurs but the products do not require plastic packaging for preservation and the freshness is also vital for your health.
Reuse, reuse, reuse
And my all-time favourite, the shopping bag made of 100% recyclable materials – this does not only contribute to looking after the environment but also helps you save money.
Finally, you're probably familiar with the saying, "You've got to make the most of what you have," Well, unfortunately, the world as we have it has turned into our rubbish dump, but we can still redeem ourselves by perhaps regularly stuffing plastic wrappers into 2-litre cool drink bottles, turning two common polluters into useful eco-bricks to build houses for the less privileged… The possibilities these days are endless, and this could even give birth to many DIY projects. It's not only eco-friendly but can be fun too.
Your contribution matters, however small. As individuals you and I might not be able to change the entire world but you could take just 20 minutes of your time to educate the youth about plastic pollution – they are the future, after all. I challenge you to get those around you involved in what will hopefully transform into the green evolution. This our world and we only have one.
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