The Harmful Effects of Plastic on our Environment and human health

The World Health Organization (WHO) published shocking research in 2018 which exposed the presence of microplastics in 90% of bottled water which had been tested – only 17 were free of plastics out of 259. Today while there is not enough evidence on the impact of microplastics on human health, most scientists agree that it is an emerging area of concern and that if thousands of species (breed) worldwide are dying because of it, it can’t be that good for us either.

 

plastic Pollution

The side effect of plastic on human health

The chemicals are used in the production of plastic are toxic and detrimental to the human body. The plastic can be dangerous in multiple ways. Chemicals like cadmium, lead, and mercury directly can come in contact with the human. They have been found in many fish in the ocean.

These toxins can cause cancers, congenital disabilities, and immune system problems and childhood development issues. The other toxins like BPA or health biphenyl-A found in Plastic bottles or food packing materials. When the polymer chains of BPA are broken down and enter the human body through contaminated water of fish, it could lead to some serious damage to our body. The BPA can decrease the thyroid hormone receptor which can lead to hypothyroidism.

 Apart from these several effects, we also suffer some serious diseases due to plastic. Here are some adverse health effects which are commonly found in individuals:-

Diseases Causes by Plastic

1. Asthma

2. Liver Damage and Cancer

3. Pulmonary cancer due to inhalation of poisonous gases by lungs resulting in cancer.

4. Brain and nerve damage

5. Kidney disease

Tips to Use less Plastic:

So what can we do about that? It is highly important for us that we get rid of these problems. Let's know here how we can avoid uses of plastic:-

 • Stop buying packed water. The plastic bottles contribute the most to plastic junk, as almost 30 million bottles are dumped into the trash.

 • Always carry your own cloth/paper shopping bags. Though it seems a small thing, if followed diligently you can reduce the use of plastic shopping bags.

 • Choose cardboard over plastic bags because the cardboard is biodegradable and hence environment-friendly.

 • Whether you are at restaurants, try to reduce the use of straws.

 • One of the best ways to reduce the packing waste is to shop in bulk. That will reduce the plastic waste from your house too.

 • Try to store your food in Tiffin box or glass containers etc. Throw away your zipper bags and go for reusable containers.

 These simple tips are very useful in batting the plastic junk. 

How will we avoid a plastic outbreak:

1. Keep plastic bags handy. Use them many times. Use a carry bag (made of cloth or paper) with you when you buy goods.

2. Avoid using plastics that have to be thrown away after one use, such as thin plastic glasses, liquids, drinking straws, and similar items.

3. Promote the use of traditional clay pottery.

4. Try to reduce plastic stuff. Gradually, instead of plastic material, replace with wood and other material.

5. Choose plastic PETE and HDPE type goods. This plastic is easily recycled.

6. Try to use plastic bags and polystyrene foam sparingly. Their recycling rate is very low.

7. You at least try to throw away the plastic stuff.

8. Discuss the low use of plastic around you.

9. Many such centers have also been established in our country where plastic recycling is done. Make arrangements to get your waste there.


10. Do not try to eliminate plastic yourself. Plastic does not end up in the water, neither on land nor underground. Burning is also highly harmful to the environment.

  In addition, the government should certainly do their share in encouraging green practices by supporting environmentally friendly behavior and introducing stricter penalties for offenses against nature.