- Plastic is not biodegradable
The plastic industry is responsible for producing over 80% of the world’s garbage. Most plastics are non-biodegradable and take hundreds of years to decompose. In fact, some plastics do not even break down at all! Plastics are made out of petroleum products and are toxic to humans and animals.
2. Plastic is bad for the environment
Plastic production uses fossil fuels and creates air pollution. When plastic breaks down, it releases chemicals called phthalates into the water supply. These chemicals have been linked to birth defects, cancer, and hormone disruption.
3. Plastic is bad for our bodies
When we eat food wrapped in plastic, it leaches dangerous chemicals into our bodies. According to the EPA, BPA (a chemical commonly found in plastic) is associated with breast cancer, prostate cancer, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
4. Plastic is bad for wildlife
Animals often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish and choke on them. Birds and fish mistake plastic debris for food and choke to death. Animals who ingest plastic may become ill and die.
5. Plastic is bad for human health
Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical commonly found in plastic, has been shown to cause reproductive problems, disrupt hormones, and increase the risk of certain cancers. Studies show that people who drink bottled water containing BPA are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder.
6. Plastic is bad for marine life
Marine life mistakes plastic debris for food and chokes to death. Marine mammals and birds mistake plastic debris for nesting material and suffocate. Fish mistake plastic debris for shelter and get stuck in nets.
7. Plastic is bad for bees
Bees collect pollen and nectar to make honey. But they can’t distinguish between plastic and pollen and end up eating plastic instead. Bees then starve to death.