The world’s nations gather again at a UN conference in Geneva to thrash out a deal on the ‘plastic crisis’. Despite two years of negotiations, countries have failed to reach an agreement on cutting plastic production and banning harmful chemicals.
Plastics have exploded in production over the last century, with 200 trillion pieces estimated to be floating in the world’s oceans. If no action is taken, this number could triple. The environmental impact of plastics is a major concern, with levels of plastic waste growing exponentially since 1950.
Research has shown that plastics can harm wildlife by confusing them as food, causing digestion difficulties and fatalities. Microplastics, which break down into smaller pieces, have been found in the deep sea to mountain tops, and across all living systems ever tested.
The “plastic crisis” is a growing danger for human health, with experts estimating that it’s responsible for at least $1.5 trillion in health-related damages per year. Plastics contain over 16,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and cancer-causing.
Countries are trying to agree on targets to cut single-use plastics, bans on harmful chemicals, universal design guidelines for plastic products, and financing for the effort. However, oil-producing nations like Russia and Saudi Arabia oppose limits on production, fearing it could harm their economy.
Individuals can reduce plastic waste by taking reusable containers, cups, bags, and avoiding items that break down into microplastics. Small changes can make a difference in tackling this global crisis.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2kem4plr5o