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Plastic pollution is caused by the widespread use of plastic, especially single-use plastic, and its inability to decompose in nature. Learn how plastic enters the environment through various pathways, such as rivers, wind, and wastewater.
Oct 11, 2024 · Plastics are persistent large-scale pollutants, and plastic debris (such as bottles, straws, containers, and plastic wrap) and particulates have been found in many environmental niches, from Mount Everest to the bottom of the sea.
Apr 25, 2023 · Plastic pollution is a global crisis that affects wildlife, climate and human health. Learn about the sources, effects and actions to reduce plastic waste, and support the UN's efforts to end plastic pollution by 2024.
Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic objects and particles (e.g. plastic bottles, bags and microbeads) in the Earth's environment that adversely affects humans, wildlife and their habitat. [ 1 ][ 2 ] Plastics that act as pollutants are categorized by size into micro-, meso-, or macro debris. [ 3 ]
Plastic pollution can alter habitats and natural processes, reducing ecosystems’ ability to adapt to climate change, directly affecting millions of people’s livelihoods, food production capabilities and social well-being.
Sep 23, 2024 · Learn how plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, affecting wildlife, human health, and the planet. Find out why plastics are so ubiquitous, how they move around the world, and what can be done to stop them.
As plastic pollution is a transboundary issue, a global plastics treaty is needed to ambitiously reduce plastic production, phase out harmful subsidies, eliminate products and chemicals of concern, and adopt strong national plans and rigorous reporting and compliance mechanisms.
