How do plastic bags damage the environment?

In summary, plastic bags taking a long time to decompose is bad for the environment because it contributes to pollution, harms animals, and releases harmful chemicals, making it essential for us to reduce our use and properly dispose of them.
  • #1
888eddy
35
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i have been taught that plastic bags damage the environment because they take thousands of years to decompose.

this is not an explanation though. why is it bad that they take ages to decompose? i guess animals get trapped in them and some plastics are toxic but it would seem easy to put the plastic somewhere where animals won't get stuck and stop using the toxic plastics.
 
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  • #2
Exactly - there is sometimes a rather circular argument in a lot of enviromental statements.
blown by the wind they become an eyesore and if they reach the sea they are a hazard to marine life (things eat them because tyhey look like jellyfish) but generally bureied in a proper landfill they are no worse than most of the other things put in a landfill.

Without wishing to starting a flame war - yes they do use oil to make, but not very much energy, much less than some other packaging. And a reusable heavy duty bag is better.
But the 'pastic bags are bad because they are plastic and plastic is bad because it makes plastic bags' is a bit simplistic.
 
  • #3


Hi there,

I completely understand your confusion about why plastic bags taking a long time to decompose is harmful for the environment. Let me try to explain it a bit further for you.

Firstly, let's talk about the decomposition process itself. When something decomposes, it breaks down into smaller pieces and eventually becomes a part of the soil. This process is essential for the environment because it allows nutrients to be recycled and reused by plants and animals. However, plastic bags are made from materials that do not easily decompose, such as polyethylene. This means that they can take hundreds or even thousands of years to break down into smaller pieces.

Now, why is this a problem? Well, for one, it means that plastic bags are taking up valuable space in landfills for a very long time. Landfills are already overflowing with waste, and the slow decomposition of plastic bags only adds to this problem. Additionally, when plastic bags do eventually break down into smaller pieces, they release harmful chemicals into the environment. These chemicals can contaminate soil and water sources, posing a threat to plants, animals, and even humans.

Furthermore, as you mentioned, plastic bags can also harm animals. Many animals mistake plastic bags for food and ingest them, which can lead to choking, intestinal blockage, and even death. Additionally, animals can get entangled in plastic bags, which can cause injuries or prevent them from moving and hunting for food.

While it may seem easy to just avoid using toxic plastics and dispose of plastic bags properly, the reality is that not everyone does this. Many plastic bags end up in the environment, polluting our oceans, rivers, and natural habitats. Even if we try our best to prevent this, the sheer amount of plastic bags being produced and used is still a significant problem for the environment.

In conclusion, plastic bags taking a long time to decompose is harmful to the environment because it contributes to pollution, harms animals, and releases harmful chemicals. That is why it is essential for us to reduce our use of plastic bags and properly dispose of them to minimize their impact on the environment. I hope this helps clarify why plastic bags are a concern for the environment.
 

1. How are plastic bags damaging the environment?

Plastic bags damage the environment in a number of ways. First, they are made from non-renewable resources, such as petroleum, which contributes to pollution and climate change. Additionally, plastic bags take hundreds of years to break down in the environment, leading to litter and harming wildlife. Finally, the production of plastic bags also releases harmful chemicals into the air and water.

2. Are plastic bags biodegradable?

No, plastic bags are not biodegradable. They are made from synthetic materials that do not break down easily in the environment. While some plastic bags may eventually degrade into smaller pieces, they never fully disappear and can still cause harm to animals and ecosystems.

3. What impact do plastic bags have on marine life?

Plastic bags are a major threat to marine life. Many animals, such as sea turtles and seabirds, mistake plastic bags for food and ingest them, which can lead to injury or death. Additionally, plastic bags can entangle and suffocate marine animals. The accumulation of plastic bags in the ocean also disrupts the marine ecosystem and can harm the overall health of marine life.

4. How do plastic bags contribute to landfills?

Plastic bags are a major contributor to landfills. They are not easily biodegradable, so they remain in landfills for hundreds of years. As they break down into smaller pieces, they can also release harmful chemicals into the soil and groundwater. The production of plastic bags also requires a significant amount of energy and resources, which further contributes to the environmental impact of landfills.

5. What are some alternatives to using plastic bags?

There are many alternatives to using plastic bags, such as reusable cloth bags, paper bags, or biodegradable bags made from natural materials. These alternatives are more environmentally friendly and can help reduce the amount of plastic waste in landfills and oceans. Additionally, using reusable bags can save resources and energy in the long run, making it a more sustainable choice for the environment.

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