Today is International Earth Day and the theme is, “Say no to plastic.” Even if it was not the theme, it is perhaps the most important need today. Our oceans and landfills are overburdened with plastic waste. Precious flora and fauna are getting chocked and killed thanks to plastic waste. The worst part is that, plastic is non-biodegradable.
“Earth Day 2018 is dedicated to providing the information and inspiration needed to fundamentally change human attitude and behavior about plastics,” said the Earth Day Network statement.
It was 48 years ago on this day, Aprill 22 that the first Earth Day was celebrated in the US. It was founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson. It was chosen as a day to make people aware of the environment and its importance in our lives.
On this Earth Day, which has now gained importance among the youth across the world, the idea is to encourage people to cut down on their plastic consumption. This can be easily done by paying a close attention to the number of plastic items each person consumes annually and to make a conscious effort to reduce the amount.
According to a paper published in scientific journal, Chemistry and Biology in 2009, plastic is non-biodegradable and disposed plastic can remain in the environment for up to 2,000 years.
Some Indian states like Sikkim, Delhi and Maharashtra have successfully banned plastic goods that are used for daily needs like plastic bags and bottles. However, the rest of the nation needs to follow through and categorically say ‘no’ to using plastic.
It is up to the human race to clean up plastic waste and make the earth green once more.
So, on this International Earth Day, take a pledge and stop plastic consumption.