Key Points:
– The use of single-use plastic bags in England has dropped by 98% since retailers began charging for them in 2015.
– Seven leading grocery chains have seen a significant decline in the distribution of plastic carrier bags, from 7.6 billion in 2014 to 133 million last year.
– Environmental campaigners are urging the government to learn from this success and take further action.
Analysis:
1. Impact on Human Health:
– The reduction in single-use plastic bags will have a positive impact on human health.
– Plastic bags take hundreds of years to decompose, and their production contributes to air and water pollution.
– By reducing the usage of such bags, the amount of plastic waste entering ecosystems and potentially reaching human bodies through food and water sources will decrease.
2. Impact on Climate Change:
– Although plastic bag usage has a relatively small impact on climate change compared to other factors, the reduction is still significant.
– The production of plastic bags requires fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
– By decreasing the demand and distribution of plastic bags, there will be a reduction in the extraction and burning of fossil fuels, leading to a decrease in carbon emissions.
3. Actions Individuals Can Take:
– Avoid using single-use plastic bags and opt for reusable bags instead.
– Support governmental initiatives and policies that aim to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable alternatives.
– Educate and raise awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on the environment and human health.
– Engage in recycling programs and properly dispose of plastic waste instead of letting it end up in landfills or oceans.
Original Article:https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jul/31/government-urged-to-repeat-success-of-plastic-bag-charge