essay writing on plastic ban

Plastic Pollution Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on plastic pollution.

Plastic is everywhere nowadays. People are using it endlessly just for their comfort. However, no one realizes how it is harming our planet. We need to become aware of the consequences so that we can stop plastic pollution . Kids should be taught from their childhood to avoid using plastic. Similarly, adults must check each other on the same. In addition, the government must take stringent measures to stop plastic pollution before it gets too late.

Uprise of Plastic Pollution

Plastic has become one of the most used substances. It is seen everywhere these days, from supermarkets to common households. Why is that? Why is the use of plastic on the rise instead of diminishing? The main reason is that plastic is very cheap. It costs lesser than other alternatives like paper and cloth. This is why it is so common.

Secondly, it is very easy to use. Plastic can be used for almost anything either liquid or solid. Moreover, it comes in different forms which we can easily mold.

Furthermore, we see that plastic is a non-biodegradable material. It does not leave the face of the Earth . We cannot dissolve plastic in land or water, it remains forever. Thus, more and more use of plastic means more plastic which won’t get dissolved. Thus, the uprise of plastic pollution is happening at a very rapid rate.

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Impact of Plastic Pollution

Plastic Pollution is affecting the whole earth, including mankind, wildlife, and aquatic life. It is spreading like a disease which has no cure. We all must realize the harmful impact it has on our lives so as to avert it as soon as possible.

Plastic pollutes our water. Each year, tonnes of plastic are dumped into the ocean. As plastic does not dissolve, it remains in the water thereby hampering its purity. This means we won’t be left with clean water in the coming years.

Furthermore, plastic pollutes our land as well. When humans dump Plastic waste into landfills, the soil gets damaged. It ruins the fertility of the soil. In addition to this, various disease-carrying insects collect in that area, causing deadly illnesses.

Should Plastic Be Banned? Read the Essay here

Most importantly, plastic pollution harms the Marine life . The plastic litter in the water is mistaken for food by the aquatic animals. They eat it and die eventually. For instance, a dolphin died due to a plastic ring stuck in its mouth. It couldn’t open its mouth due to that and died of starvation. Thus, we see how innocent animals are dying because of plastic pollution.

In short, we see how plastic pollution is ruining everyone’s life on earth. We must take major steps to prevent it. We must use alternatives like cloth bags and paper bags instead of plastic bags. If we are purchasing plastic, we must reuse it. We must avoid drinking bottled water which contributes largely to plastic pollution. The government must put a plastic ban on the use of plastic. All this can prevent plastic pollution to a large extent.

FAQs on Plastic Pollution Essay

Q.1 Why is plastic pollution on the rise?

A.1 Plastic Pollution is on the rise because nowadays people are using plastic endlessly. It is very economical and easily available. Moreover, plastic does not dissolve in the land or water, it stays for more than hundred years contributing to uprise of plastic pollution.

Q.2 How is plastic pollution impacting the earth?

A.2 Plastic pollution is impacting the earth in various ways. Firstly, it is polluting our water. This causes a shortage of clean water and thus we cannot have enough supply for all. Moreover, it is also ruining our soils and lands. The soil fertility is depleting and disease-carrying insects are collecting in landfills of plastic.

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Just a Few Choice Arguments as to Why Plastic Should be Banned

Plastic bags have already been banned in many places, but some argue that plastics themselves should be entirely abolished.

Oct. 22 2020, Updated 5:16 p.m. ET

In terms of recycling, the world is in a much better place than it was a few decades ago. Plastic bags have already been banned in many cities, counties, and countries the world over. Recycled plastic is being used to make just about everything you could imagine. Toys, bottles, tumblers, cutlery, and even a few recycling bins are just the beginning of what we can do with recycled plastic.

Unfortunately, recycling and repurposing the plastic is like putting a Band-Aid on a wound that already needed stitches to begin with. Plastics are everywhere, and while some, like those used for cars or appliances, are a necessary evil, many can be completely eliminated; that’s the argument at least. But how feasible is this solution and why are plastics so bad in the first place?

Why is plastic bad for the environment?

Plastic pollution is one of the biggest problems facing our world today. It was first invented in 1907 by Belgian-American chemist Leo Baekeland. Made from petroleum products, Baekland’s “ bakelite ” plastic was a revolutionary material. It was lightweight, could withstand heat and cold, could hold up over time, and best of all, it was cheap and easy to mass-produce. Baekland couldn’t have anticipated that plastic’s long-term durability would end up making so detrimental and dangerous for the environment.

Plastic doesn’t biodegrade. When it does break down — after a very long time, mind you — it turns into harmful nodules of microplasti c. These microplastic motes find their way into waterways, where they are digested by other creatures, including humans. They sit in the gut, piling up and leeching harmful elements into the body.

Why is plastic bad for humans?

On top of being a pollutant, plastic is known to emit some radiation, and there are theories that some plastic water bottles are carcinogenic if used over time. This means that even using a reusable plastic water bottle isn’t a great idea either. If plastic is so bad for people and so bad for the environment, why are we still using it?

Plastic’s highly-disposable nature is part of the problem as well. We can use a bottle of Gatorade for a few minutes and throw the bottle away when we’re done. It’s too easy and it always has been. It was only when we finally started to see the piles of plastic growing around us, piling up in landfills, and taking up huge swaths of the Pacific Ocean , that we decided something should be done.

Can plastic really be recycled?

Plastic can and has been recycled for decades now, but there are some experts who think that even this isn’t such a good idea. First of all, not all plastic can be recycled . Only certain types, used for certain purposes can be reused and repurposed. When we do recycle plastic, melting it down in order to reprocess it can send harmful burning plastic smoke into the atmosphere. And frankly, we have enough problems with our atmosphere as it is.

Recycling can also be logistically and financially difficult. Plastic recycling requires specialized equipment that is not readily available. Recycling plants require energy to run and people to man them. And unlike plastic production, which is cheap and easily handled after so much practice, recycling offers far less return on investment for businesses. Thus, it’s not nearly as popular as it should be. Not to mention, only about 9 percent of plastic actually gets recycled .

Should plastic be banned?

Based on the convenience and necessity of plastic, there is little chance of any government or organization outright banning it. People wouldn’t allow it. We’ve all become too hooked on the availability and comfort of the stuff. The alternatives aren't well-known either, and that presents a problem in delivering a coherent message to the general public. However, there are several solutions that might make regulating plastic a bit easier.

How can we ban plastic?

The first thing we could do is tax it. This has already been done with disposable grocery bags in some places, where many people are just not willing to pay an extra 10 cents for a plastic bag. That adds up over time. Of course, many consumers have rolled over in favor of convenience, plastic’s most staunch advocate. Recycling can only go so far as we discussed, but it is an option — though there's not much to do about non-recyclable plastics.

Banning single-use plastics is the only true way to do it. Bags were a good start, but bottles, cups, straws, and cutlery will be a harder sell. This is especially true for small businesses and chains who rely on low-cost options to serve and sell their wares. In the end, allowances will always have to be considered. Unfortunately, until everyone is on board, plastics will remain an innocuous, yet destructive piece of our daily lives.

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Should Plastic be Banned

Essay on Plastic Ban: Why We Must Ban Plastic

Plastic bags, made of stable organic polymers, pose a significant threat to the environment. These long chains of carbon atoms are chemically stable, making them resistant to environmental breakdown. Despite their industrial importance and affordability, the environmental impact of plastic bags is becoming evident.

The non-degradable waste from years of plastic use is now causing pollution in the air, water, soil, and every part of nature. Plastic bags take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to land and water pollution globally. The excessive use of plastics introduces them into our food chain, posing health risks such as organ failure and respiratory distress.

Animals, both on land and in water, unknowingly consume plastic, leading to blockages and respiratory failure. Marine animals often die from entanglement in plastic waste. Additionally, plastic bags accumulate in waterways, clogging drains and sewers, resulting in disease vectors and reduced oxygen supply to aquatic animals.

Efforts to tax plastic use have been ineffective. However, before banning plastics, suitable replacements must be available to avoid inconvenience. The urgency to save our planet, our only home, calls for a global ban on plastic bags.

The pervasive use of plastic, while convenient and durable, has unleashed a hidden monster - plastic pollution. This threat affects every corner of the planet, endangering life on land and in water. Banning single-use plastics is crucial for a healthier planet and a brighter future.

Plastic pollution extends to our oceans, with an estimated 8 million tons entering annually. Gyres of plastic debris harm marine life, suffocating sea turtles and posing threats to entire ecosystems. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch serves as a stark reminder of the uncontrolled plastic plague.

The impact on land is equally alarming, with plastic bags causing floods, contaminating the food chain with microplastics, and overflowing landfills. The health risks to humans include disruptions to the endocrine system and potential long-term consequences from exposure to microplastics.

To combat plastic pollution, a multi-pronged approach is needed. Banning single-use plastics, promoting responsible production and disposal, and investing in alternatives are crucial steps. This crisis presents an opportunity for collective action, innovation, and a shift towards a circular economy.

The fight against single-use plastic is not just an environmental crusade but a battle for the health and future of our planet. It requires a shift towards responsible use, mindful disposal, and a commitment to a future where convenience does not harm the planet. By embracing the ban on single-use plastics, we pave the way for a healthier planet and a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.

Towards a Plastic-Free Tomorrow

Imagine a world where beautiful beaches invite you with golden sands, not piles of plastic. Coral reefs thrive with life, free from plastic's suffocating hold. Clean air fills our lungs, untouched by the fumes of burning plastic. This isn't a far-off dream; it's a possible future if we take action.

A plastic ban isn't a fight against convenience; it's a necessary shift for a sustainable future. It's a call to embrace responsibility, innovation, and deep respect for our shared planet. Let's meet this challenge, break free from plastic's grasp, and reclaim a future where life unfolds in vibrant, unspoiled glory.

The plastic crisis isn't a distant threat; it's a fire at our doorstep. A plastic ban might seem drastic, but it's the necessary action we need. By prioritizing our planet's health and our well-being, we can pave the way for a plastic-free future. It's not just about inconvenience; it's about reclaiming our future, one reusable bag, one biodegradable choice at a time.

FAQs on Should Plastic be Banned

1. Are plastic bags a boon for nature or a curse?

Plastic bags are small and lightweight, making them easy to transport.

This may appear to be a blessing to us, but there is another side to the coin.

Because they are light, they are easily carried away by the wind and water.

As a result, they end up in seas and oceans, polluting them. Furthermore, they become tangled in fences and trash our landscapes when carried away by the wind.

The ingredient used to produce plastic bags is polypropylene, which is why they are so long-lasting.

This polypropylene, on the other hand, is made from natural gas and petroleum, and it is non-biodegradable.

There is a common misperception that recycling is a better option than using plastic bags. This eventually compels the producers to produce more, and the process repeats itself with a tiny modification in the number of units produced.

Plastic bags are damaging to human health, even though they are one of the most practical bags for carrying lots of things.

2. How to minimize the use of plastic?

Plastic bag-related hazards are frequently disregarded and underestimated.

This is because individuals do not consider the long-term consequences of the compact, easy-to-carry bags they use on a daily basis.

Plastic bags have been banned in a number of several throughout the world.

In many Indian states, the use of plastic bags has also been limited by the government.

To ensure that the usage of these bags is prohibited, the government must take stringent measures. There needs to be a complete ban on the production of plastic bags.

Retailers must also be penalized if they offer plastic bags.

Those who are caught carrying plastic bags should be penalized as well.

3. Why should plastic be banned?

There are a variety of reasons why governments around the world have enacted tough regulations to limit the use of plastic bags. Here are a few reasons

Plastic bags that have been discarded are heavily damaging the land and water.

Plastic bags have become a hazard to the lives of both terrestrial and aquatic species.

Waste plastic bags emit chemicals into the soil, rendering it infertile.

The use of plastic bags has a harmful influence on human health.

The drainage issue is caused by plastic bags

4. What problems are caused by plastics?

Here are some of the issues that plastic bags cause:

Non-Biodegradable- Plastic bags do not decompose. As a result, disposing of plastics is the most difficult task.

Environmental Degradation- They are destroying nature as a result of their negative impact. Today, plastic bags are the leading cause of land pollution. Plastic bags that end up in aquatic bodies are a major source of pollution. As a result, we may conclude that these are wreaking havoc on our ecosystem in every manner possible.

Animals and Marine Creatures are Harmed- Plastic particles are inadvertently consumed by animals and aquatic species. According to research, waste plastic bags are a major cause of untimely animal fatalities.

Illness in Humans- Toxic chemicals are released during the manufacture of plastic bags. These are the leading causes of death. The polluted environment is a key cause of a variety of diseases that are easily spread among humans.

Sewage Back-Up- The biggest cause of drain and sewage blockages, especially during rainstorms, is waste plastic bags. This could result in a flood-like situation, disrupting people's daily lives.

5. Does plastic cause pollution?

Yes, plastic causes pollution. Plastic bags are a key source of plastic pollution, a type of waste that is wreaking havoc on our ecosystem. It poses a threat to human life on the planet. To decrease pollution, plastic bags must be prohibited. Plastic bags pollute the environment, the air, and the water. This is why they have been outlawed in a number several. However, they are still widely used in most parts of the world, and they are proving to be environmentally hazardous.

6. Are Plastic Bags Banned in India?

In October 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a nationwide ban on single-use plastic which is used for carrying food for eating or drinking cups that is discarded immediately after one use was put into effect so as to achieve the goal to make India plastic-free by 2022. As this kind of plastic is not easily recyclable it is a great way to conserve nature.

7. What are the Alternatives to Plastic?

As of now till there are other options one can use paper bags or cotton bags, these are easily available and can also be easily hand-made. The material is so good that it lasts a long time and doesn’t get damaged easily and when dumped is decomposed easily as it is made of biodegradable and renewable sources.

Essay on Plastic Ban for Students and Children in 1000+ Words

In this article, read an Essay on Plastic Ban for Students and Children in 1000+ Words. This includes history of plastic bags and discussion on ‘Plastic Bags – A Boon or A Curse?’.

Lets Start this Essay on Plastic Ban…

Table of Contents

Essay on Plastic Ban (1000+ Words)

Plastic bags are a significant source of plastic pollution. Plastic pollution significantly contributes to the deterioration of our environment.

There should be a plastic ban to decrease in plastic pollution . Plastic bags cause land, water and air pollution. Decomposing of plastic waste is also a significant challenge which leads to an increase in plastic pollution.

Using plastic has been banned in various countries because of the adverse effects. However, plastic products have been used in various parts of the world, thereby causing hazards to the environment .

Plastic bags are easily available in the market and are widely used. Plastic bags are usually available in grocery stores and are used to carry grocery items like rice, fruits, veggies, wheat flour and other grocery items. The plastic bags are available in various sizes; they are much more economical and easy to use.

However, bags harm the environment. The plastic items and bags that we use in our day-to-day life are hazardous for our environment. This is a major problem than it appears. Scientists say that plastic bags are a major cause of water pollution .

Plastic waste is also responsible for making agricultural land infertile and also many other problems. Many countries throughout the world, including India , have banned the use of plastic bags to ensure a greener environment .

History of Plastic Bags

The plastic products that we use today were originally acquainted with the world by Alexander Parkes at London’s Great International Exhibition in the year 1862.

Parkes’ used a natural subsidiary to f cellulose as the material, which was formed when warmed and was kept in shape after cooling it.

Coining the word “Plastic”

The word plastic was coined in the year 1909. The word was first used by Leo H. Baekeland to describe a type of material that constituted Bakelite,” a substance he made from coal tar, which was used to make many things like phone, camera and ashtrays.

Plastics were used as a critical segment in the production of all these things. Plastics turned out to be well known throughout the world only after World War 1 when oil becomes effortlessly accessible.

Plastic Bags – A Boon or A Curse?

‘Need to Encourage People for Plastic Ban’

Plastic bags are very lightweight and can be easily carried anywhere.

This may sound like a boon for people, but however, there is also another side if the use of plastic bags. Since it is lightweight in nature, it is easily carried away by wind and water.

This is the reason that it blows away anywhere like seas and oceans and pollutes it. They also destroy the beauty of landscapes. A material called polypropylene is used to make plastic bags. It makes them much durable to use.

Natural gas and petroleum are used to make polypropylene. Natural gas and petroleum are non-biodegradable in nature.

The production of various plastic products, including plastic bags releases greenhouse gases like methane, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, which is the major cause of global warming throughout the world.

People believe that recycling is an alternative to the misuse of plastic waste; however, it is a misconception. An average of only 5% of all the plastic waste can be recycled, and the remaining 95% find its way in soil, water and other landscapes.

According to the latest report, about 35 – 40 % of all the plastic waste is being recycled, and the location of the remaining 60 % is not even known. This makes the plastic producers produce even more number of plastics, and a minor change occurs in the number of recycled products.

Plastic bags considered to be one of the most convenient ways to carry loads of products. However, plastic ban is the solution as it is harmful to human health .

The plastic bag contains a few chemical and synthetic substances in them which can potentially disturb the typical working of the hormones of the human body.

Most of the plastic products that are discharged in the seas and oceans, like plastic bags contain contaminations like PCB’s (polychlorinated biphenyl) and PAHs (Polycyclic fragrant hydrocarbons) which can affect the hormone structure.

When sea animals eat these substances, it travels through the food web and finally reaches to a human while consuming fish.

How can we minimize use of plastic?

Plastic ban has soared high in several countries. The government of India has also made plastic ban in various states of the country. The use of plastic bags should be stopped throughout the country, and strict measures should be taken to implement this.

There must be a ban on the production of plastic bags also.
Retailers must be fined to sell plastic bags.
People who use and carry plastic bags should be fined.
Some amount must charge plastic bags of good quality which are easily available in the market; this will significantly reduce the use of plastic bags.
A good option should be available in the market, which can substitute plastic bags.
It should also be cost-efficient.

Plastic ban is a movement in the right direction. Most of the biggest economic countries of the world like China, USA and many European countries have banned the use of plastic bags.

There are many countries which have not implemented plastic bags, and they should do it soon. Some of the concerns arise on which people depend as a source of livelihood.

However, on the other side, the plastic ban is a sole need as these bags are destroying our environment. Innovators will eventually come up with an alternative for plastic ban everywhere. This will, in turn, create products and companies, and finally, people will get employment.

When it comes to production costs, plastic bags and cheaper and much easier to produce as compared to eco-friendly bags, however, the demerit is that the plastic bags undergo wear and tear easily. In fact, people discard them in the garbage bins as soon as they carry their products home.

Eco-friendly bags like that of cotton bags are much durable, and also it can be washed and reused again. Eco-friendly bags are cheaper for the long run because it doesn’t have government intervention to clear them from the street.

They are easily degradable and can be cleared from the face of the world. It is not wise to spend money on something that costs almost three times the amount to get rid of it.

10 Lines on Plastic Ban

The world produces more than 6 billion metric tons of plastic waste annually.
Plastic is dumped in lands and oceans, causing massive pollution and environmental problems.
Plastic is a human-made material and hence cannot be degraded in nature.
Scientists are working on a natural degradation of plastic through certain types of bacteria and enzymes.
On average, a person consumes more than 100 kilograms of plastic each year.
There are more than 12.7 million times of plastic in our oceans as of now.
Irresponsible disposal of plastics will lead to disturbance in the natural ecosystems as well as our food chain.
Banning plastic altogether is not possible because we are heavily dependent on plastic every day.
From our Smartphone’s to computers to medical devices, plastic exist in every sphere of our lives.
Plastic bags should be banned because the alternative for it exists like jute bag, gunny bag or paper bags.

There are many problems which are caused due to plastic waste, and it has often been overlooked and underestimated.

This is because people don’t think about the long term effect that plastic is causing to the environment. People look at the benefits that they are getting from it.

People do not consider plastic ban and keep using plastic bags owing to the convenience they offer and ignore the adverse effects that are caused to the environment.

I hope you liked this essay on plastic ban. Must share this essay with your friends.

Why Plastic Bags Should Be Banned

Categories: Environmental Issues Plastic Bags

About this sample

Words: 924 |

Published: Dec 16, 2021

Words: 924 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

The environmental catastrophe of plastic pollution, the human health implications of plastic, the economic costs of plastic pollution, works cited.

Achilike, K. (2019). The Impact of Plastic Bag Ban on the Environment. European Journal of Business and Management Research, 4(2), 16-23.
Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). Plastic Pollution. https://www.epa.gov/trash-free-waters/plastic-pollution
Ghosh, P. (2020). Ban on Single-Use Plastics in India: A Critical Analysis. Asian Journal of Legal Studies, 4(1), 1-10.
Hopkins, S. (2018). Plastic Pollution and the Global Throwaway Culture: Environmental Injustices of Single-Use Plastics. Routledge.
Kaza, S., Yao, L., Bhada-Tata, P., & Van Woerden, F. (2018). What a Waste 2.0: A Global Snapshot of Solid Waste Management to 2050. World Bank.
Naeem, N. (2018). Plastic Bags and Their Impact on the Environment. Global Journal of Environmental Science and Management, 4(1), 1-10.
National Geographic. (2021). Plastic Pollution. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/plastic-pollution/
United Nations Environment Programme. (2018). Single-Use Plastics: A Roadmap for Sustainability. https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/25496
Verghese, K., Lewis, H., Lockrey, S., & Williams, H. (2019). Packaging for Sustainability. Springer.
World Wildlife Fund. (2021). Plastic Pollution.

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Should Plastic Bags Be Banned Everywhere?

New York has a new law that bans most single-use plastic bags like the ones found in grocery stores, drugstores and boutiques. Do you think all communities should do the same?

By Shannon Doyne

Find all our Student Opinion questions here.

When you buy something in a store, do you rely on the store’s plastic bags to get your items home? Or do you bring your own reusable bag — or just skip the bag entirely? For residents of New York state, the store-provided plastic bag won’t be an option any more as of March 1.

What do you think about New York’s new law? Is something similar in effect where you live? If not, do you wish it were? Why or why not? How concerned are you about the negative environmental effects of errant bags that end up in animal habitats and landfills?

In “ Get Ready, New York: The Plastic Bag Ban Is Starting ,” Anne Barnard writes about the law and its intended outcomes:

New York is banning the distribution of single-use plastic bags statewide on Sunday, a move with the ambitious goal of reducing the billions of discarded bags that stream annually into landfills, rivers and oceans. The law forbids most businesses from handing out the thin bags that are ubiquitous in supermarkets, bodegas and boutiques, making New York the third state to bar the bags after California, where a ban has already changed the way millions of people shop, and Oregon, where one took effect last month. If successful, the transition could spur a cultural sea change as significant as the end of smoking in bars, or the shift in attitudes ushered by seatbelt laws: Once optional, buckling up is now so automatic for most people that it happens almost unconsciously. New Yorkers currently use 23 billion plastic bags each year, state officials say, many of which end up as one of the most problematic forms of garbage. They blow across streets and become caught in trees. They harm birds and marine creatures. They clog sorting machines, making recycling them cumbersome.

The article goes on to describe successes in other places that have worked to decrease the use of plastic bags:

Measures in other countries and localities have significantly reduced plastic bag use, and a study in Washington found a 5-cent bag fee there had cut down on plastic pollution in waterways. The laws — including a de facto ban in Hawaii, where all counties forbid such bags — also aim to address climate change by reducing the planet-warming emissions from making the petroleum-based bags. California’s ban led to a 72 percent drop in plastic bag use. Although the law passed narrowly in a referendum — and opinions on it remain divided — implementation was relatively smooth.

Not all plastic bags are subject to the ban:

There are exceptions to the bag ban : Plastic can be used for takeout food; uncooked meat or fish and other products that could contaminate items; weighed produce; and prescription drugs. Newspaper bags, garment bags and bags sold in bulk, like trash or recycling bags, are also exempt. Paper bags are still allowed, and local governments can impose a 5-cent fee for each one a customer takes. The cities and counties that opt in to that fee will keep 2 cents per bag to spend on programs aimed at distributing reusable bags, and the remaining 3 cents will go to New York’s Environmental Protection Fund. Customers on food stamps and public assistance will be exempt from paper-bag fees.

The article notes that the new law has some opposition:

There, of course, are skeptics of the plastic ban, especially in New York City, where most people do not drive to supermarkets and shops. A bedrock feature of life in the city is running errands on the spur of the moment, or making impulse buys while walking or using public transportation. “This is going to be the worst thing to happen to this store,” said Sal Husain, who manages a C-Town grocery store in the Inwood section of Manhattan. “It’s OK to protect the environment, but there’s going to be a lot of problems with customers.” …. Across the street, Fatih Demir has been selling fruits for the past 15 years from a stand pitched below a white canopy. Most of his business comes from subway riders heading to and from the A train, he said. “Our customers keep asking, ‘What’s going to happen?’” he said. “The woman who sells next to me keeps asking, ‘What’s going to happen?’ People don’t have the time to prepare for this stuff. This is America, where people most value their time.”

However, other New Yorkers have embraced the ban:

In some ways, the transition has already begun, as eco-conscious New Yorkers have voluntarily adopted reusable bags and the stores cater to them. For some shoppers and stores, bags emblazoned with slogans and images have become a fashion statement, a method of virtue signaling and even an economic opportunity. That transition was on display on Thursday in Manhattan. Some residents could be seen trying to untangle bundles of loaded plastic bags spinning between their fingers. Others gripped reusable totes with both hands or pushed hand carts stuffed with both plastic and reusable bags. Sylvie Kande, 62, of Harlem, was carrying paper bags out of a Whole Foods Market in Midtown. She said the ban was a good idea. “It’s been done already in countries all around the world, and if it’s done there, it could be done here,” Ms. Kande said. “Everybody has to make sacrifices. And I know this is much easier for the bourgeoisie than it is for the working class, and it’s going to take some time. But we have to do it. This is an important transition.”

Students, read the entire article, then tell us:

To what degree do you agree with Ms. Kande who stated that no longer using single-use plastic bags is an “important transition”?

Do you think the ban will motivate shoppers to bring their own bags to stores? Do you and your family tend to use reusable bags? What are the pros and cons of embracing this practice?

Some people think that the ban will be more of a hardship on working class people — such as those who walk instead of get around in cars or those who rely on public transportation? What do you think? In light of this, should the ban be selectively enforced? Why or why not?

The article mentions that some people like plastic bags because they reuse them at home for various purposes. Does this happen in your house? If so, how are these bags used?

You read about the types of single-use bags as well as purchases that are not subject to the ban. Do you think each of these exemptions is sensible? Explain. Do the exceptions reduce the ban’s effectiveness, in your opinion?

A related interactive notes that in New York City, plastic bags “have become part of the city’s visual landscape, the kind of everyday objects so pervasive that they seem invisible.” Look at the bag designs in the collection. Do you think plastic bags tell us something about the time and place in which they are or were used? If so, what?

Students 13 and older are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.

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Should Plastic be Banned Essay

One type of pollution that is seriously harming our ecosystem is plastic pollution, to which plastic bags are a significant contributor. It poses a risk to Earthly life. The reduction of usage of plastic bags is necessary to minimize pollution. Plastic bags pollute the land, the air, and the water. This is the rationale behind the bans on them in a number of nations. Nevertheless, these are still frequently utilized and proven to be harmful to the environment in most regions of the world.

In this article, we will exoplore essays arguing in favor of banning plastic bags. Let’s see.

Table of Content

Long and Short English Essay on the Need for a Plastic Bag Ban

Short essay on why plastic bags should be banned – 200 words, essay on environmental pollution and plastic – 300 words, essay on why plastic bags are harmful for health – 400 words, essay on problems caused by plastic bags – 500 words, long essay on why plastic bags should be banned – 600 words.

You can use these various length essays on the topic of why plastic bags should be prohibited for your examinations and school projects. You can choose any essay on why plastic bags ought to be outlawed based on your needs and preferences.

Plastic bags are frequently used and easily found in stores. Because they are useful for transporting groceries, these are particularly well-liked at grocery stores. These come in a variety of sizes and are reasonably priced in addition to being lightweight. But we don’t consider the expense of utilizing these bags. These bags are depleting our lovely surroundings. Indeed! The ecology is at risk from the plastic bags we use on a daily basis.

The issue is far more serious than it first seems. According to researchers, one of the main reasons for water pollution is plastic bags. Some other reasons would be infertility of crop lands.

Many states in our nation have banned the use of plastic bags. Nevertheless, this rule hasn’t been properly implemented. These are still offered for sale. The stores give these bags to customers, who are happy to take their belongings in these convenient tote bags. It’s time for each of us to realize how serious the problem is and to give up using plastic bags.

The level of pollution in our surroundings is increasing daily. It has grown significantly since the start of the industrial revolution. In the previous few decades, pollution has multiplied due to an increase in factories and automobiles on our globe. While factory and car smoke has negatively impacted air quality and made breathing difficult, trash from homes and businesses has primarily contributed to the pollution of water and land, which has led to a number of serious illnesses.

Plastic: Major Cause of Environmental Pollution

Plastic is one of the primary drivers of contamination in the modern world, in addition to other things. Plastic is normally used in the creation of a wide range of things, like plastic sacks, kitchenware, furniture, entryways, sheeting, bundling material, ledges, and that’s just the beginning. Plastic is gotten from non-renewable energy sources like oil and petrol. Individuals like plastic items since they are more reasonable and lightweight than wood or metal items.

How much plastic waste that is challenging to discard is becoming because of the expanded utilization of plastic. The material plastic isn’t biodegradable. It deteriorates and ages over the long haul, yet it never mixes in with the dirt. Plastic adds to natural harm and is available in the climate for many years. Poisons that damage soil and water are delivered into landfills. Plastic couldn’t actually be scorched to dispose of it since consuming plastic deliveries destructive exhaust that can prompt significant medical conditions. Accordingly, discarding plastic has become progressively troublesome.

Along these lines, a few countries have prohibited plastic packs, which contribute essentially to plastic contamination. In any case, just prohibiting plastic packs won’t cut it. To decrease ecological contamination, extra plastic articles should likewise be prohibited.

It is imperative that we comprehend the extent to which plastic is devasting our ecosystem and making life more difficult for humans, animals, plants, and marine life. Reduced plastic product consumption is necessary to maintain a cleaner environment.

The ubiquitous plastic bags we use on a daily basis pose a threat to life as we know it. These have gradually crept into our lives and are now a significant contributor to both human and animal illness.

Plastic Bags: Dangerous to Human Well-Being

The health of individuals is enormously hurt by plastic packs. Plastic packs just adversely influence human wellbeing from the second they are created until they are discarded as garbage.

The wellbeing of individuals who work in the plastic pack industry is harmed by the risky synthetics made during the most common way of giving plastic sacks their ideal shape. Food bundling often utilizes plastic packs. As per scientists, a few destructive substances from the plastic get into the food items that are bundled in it. Accordingly, rather than keeping the food securely pressed, plastic sacks pollute it. Various occurrences of plastic sullying food have been recorded. Devouring such food can seriously endanger one for food contamination, stomach related issues, and different sicknesses.

Furthermore, a lot of non-biodegradable trash is delivered by plastic packs. For almost 500 years, this junk is as yet present on the planet. The nature of drinking water is brought down when this waste material gets into water bodies. Throughout recent many years, there has been a huge decrease in the nature of drinking water. The essential driver of this is the developing amount of plastic packs that are being discarded in drinking water sources like streams. Various ailments spread by water have supplanted this.

Plastic Bags: Cause Serious Illness in Animals

Plastic back trash significantly affects creatures, particularly marine life. After utilizing the plastic packs, we imprudently dispose of them. Most of the rubbish places where the exposed animals assemble looking for food are loaded up with these plastic sacks. Animals habitually consume entire plastic sacks or minimal plastic particles with their dinner. Over the long run, the limited quantity of plastic that collects in their bodies prompts medical problems. Be that as it may, assuming that they gulp down the entire plastic sack immediately, they risk being quickly choked to death.

The marine life is in a comparable situation. Plastic waste has extraordinarily expanded the contamination of oceanic bodies. The water that marine life drinks is turning out to be more regrettable subsequently. Fish, turtles, and other amphibian creatures likewise consume plastic.

Thus, plastic bags are really bad for your health. We should cease using them and replace them with more environmentally friendly options.

Since plastic sacks are lightweight and helpful to deal with, they are exceptionally famous. Moreover, we don’t have to purchase these when we go out to shop, dissimilar to fabric or paper packs. Since they are modest, the storekeepers give them out without limitation when clients purchase anything. Retailers and clients the same blessing plastic sacks for the reasons recorded previously. In any case, we likewise need to see the more extensive picture and see past the transient accommodation.

Problems Caused by Plastic Bags

Here are some of the problems caused by plastic bags:

(a) Non Biodegradable

Packs made of plastic don’t biodegrade. The biggest problem is disposing of them. They don’t crumble; all things being equal, they separate into little particles and infiltrate soil and water bodies. For many years, they wait in the dirt and water, delivering unsafe synthetic substances that hurt our exquisite planet.

(b) Deterioration of environment

Due to their adverse consequences, they are obliterating the normal world. Nowadays, one of the primary reasons of land defilement is plastic packs. The pre-owned plastic sacks are unloaded in landfills, where it will take them approximately 500 years to separate. Since these sacks are lightweight, the breeze can convey them to significant stretches. Land tainting results from their littering of the encompassing region and landfills. One of the primary drivers of water contamination is plastic sacks that end up in water bodies. Accordingly, these are hurting our biological system in each way.

Plastic garbage is eaten by creatures and marine life notwithstanding food. Since plastic can’t be separated, it becomes trapped in their digestive organs. Different creatures and marine life experience grave medical problems because of a lot of plastic structure up in their digestive organs. At times, creatures accidentally gulp down the entire plastic pack. They are gagged to death when something becomes held up in their digestion tracts or throat. Especially famous for consuming the full plastic sack immediately, ocean turtles botch it for jellyfish. Studies uncover that disposed of plastic packs have been a critical supporter of untimely creature passings.

(d) The Reason Behind Human Illness

When plastic bags are made, hazardous chemicals are released into the air, endangering the health of those who work on them. Food contained in plastic bags may potentially be harmful to your health. Furthermore, waste plastic bags pollute the environment, as was already explained. One of the main factors contributing to the spread of many diseases among humans is pollution.

(e) Blockage in Sewage

Rubbish plastic sacks every now and again become trapped in channels and sewers in the wake of imploding in water or being passed up the breeze. The two individuals and creatures might be in danger from stopped up channels and sewers, especially while it’s coming down. Water develops in the channels because of plastic sack deterrents. This could create what is going on like a flood and impede individuals’ day to day routines.

We must recognize the issues that the convenient plastic bags are causing and put an end to their use. It’s time for our government to enact stringent legislation outlawing plastic bags.

One of the fundamental supporters of ecological debasement is plastic sacks. Since plastic is a non-biodegradable material, plastic packs dirty the biological system significantly for many years after they are left in the climate. It is currently exceptionally important to ban plastic packs before they thoroughly annihilate our planet.

Countries Where Plastic Bags are Prohibited

To restrict the utilization of plastic packs, various countries have either forced charges on them or through and through prohibited them. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Britain, Germany, Hawaii, South Africa, Morocco, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Taiwan, New York, Italy, Scotland, Rhode Island, and Maine are a couple of these. The utilization of plastic packs has essentially diminished because of these activities. But since these endeavors haven’t been as effective in executing them, the issue actually hasn’t been completely fixed.

In a few of these countries, there is an underground market for plastic packs, and these dangerous sacks are as yet being sold unlawfully.

Reasons to Ban Plastic Bags

The governments of several nations have implemented strict policies to restrict the use of plastic bags for a variety of reasons. Among these are a few of these:

Plastic bag waste is severely damaging the land and water.
Animals that live on land and in water face a threat from plastic bags.
Plastic bag waste releases chemicals into the earth, rendering it unusable for cultivation.
The health of people is being severely impacted by plastic bags.
Plastic bags cause issues with drainage.

Maintain a Tab

It is challenging to suddenly stop utilizing plastic packs when we have become so used to them. We should continually be helping ourselves to remember the adverse outcomes that plastic sacks have on the climate and screen our utilization of them assuming we are to prevail in this goal. We will ultimately become acclimated to living without these packs.

L ook for Substitutes

Plastic bags have a lot of environmentally acceptable substitutes. Every time we go to the market, we can bring a reusable jute or cloth bag to carry our groceries and other belongings instead of the plastic ones.

Reuse: Before tossing away the plastic bags we now own at home, we should utilize them as often as possible.

Raise Awareness

We may likewise bring issues to light through informal, despite the fact that the public authority ought to utilize commercials and hoardings to bring issues to light of the adverse consequences of plastic packs and the requirement for a boycott. We can illuminate the young locally, maids, and vehicle wash drivers about the mischief that plastic sacks do to the climate and urge them to quit any pretense of utilizing them.

Plastic sack related issues are as often as possible ignored and underestimated. This is a consequence of people not considering the drawn out impacts of the little, lightweight sacks they use consistently. They keep on utilizing these sacks regardless of realizing that they have adverse consequences on account of how advantageous they are.

What is Plastic?
Plastic Pollution
Single Use Plastics – Concerns and Solutions

FAQs on Should Plastic be Banned Essay

What is a 5 sentence on plastic.

Plastic is an artificial material that doesn’t break down naturally. We haphazardly incorporate it into practically all daily products. Plastic waste builds up and contaminates the environment. Its buildup affects the land, rivers, and seas.

Why we should stop using plastic?

The remaining three quarters, which are not recycled, end up in our environment where they contaminate our oceans and disrupt our ecosystem. Marine life is particularly vulnerable since most plastic debris from less developed nations ends up in the ocean.

Why is plastic harmful?

Plastic persists in the ecosystem for a very long time, endangering species and dispersing pollutants. The use of plastic also fuels global warming. The chemicals used to make almost all plastics are derived from the burning of fossil fuels including coal, oil, and gas.

What is the slogan for no plastic?

“No plastic, no pollution.” “Protect Earth: avoid plastic.” “Say no to plastic, make Earth magic.” “Use less plastic, love Earth more.” This is the slogan for no plastic.

How plastic is affecting our life?

They offer packaging that minimizes food waste, such as the use of packaging with a modified environment to keep meat and vegetables fresher longer (Mullan, 2002). Plastics lower transportation costs and, thus, atmospheric carbon dioxide emissions because of their light weight.

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How To Write An Essay On Plastic Ban In 10 Lines, Short And Long Form

Key Points To Remember When Writing An Essay On Plastic Ban For Lower Primary Classes

10 lines on plastic ban for children, short essay on plastic ban in english for kids, long essay on plastic ban for children, what will your child learn from the plastic ban essay.

Essay writing is integral to all students’ school curriculum, including debates and speeches. An essay on plastic ban for classes 1, 2 and 3 teaches kids to gain awareness of the dangerous effects of environmental pollution caused by plastic and how it contributes to global climate change. Plastic pollution is disastrous for both humans and marine animals. Simply banning the use of plastic is not enough. Humans must alter their ways, follow the law, and treat mother nature kindly. Here are some crucial points on plastic pollution and sustainable practices that kids can incorporate in their essays, speeches, and, most importantly, in their ways of living.

Essay writing is a creative expression that needs proper research and practice for quality output. Here are some tips to remember while writing an essay on the ban of plastic for lower primary classes.

The essay should have an introduction, body and conclusion.
Gather relevant information on the topic and divide the essay into different paragraphs.
Use simple language and avoid spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors.
The essay must have a clear line of argument.

The art of essay writing helps develop writing skills, vocabulary, and a definitive writing style. Here is an essay for classes 1 and 2 that can create positive curiosity among children and help to perfect future assignments.

Widespread use of plastic causes severe illness for humans apart from environmental pollution.
Plastic is not a natural element and is produced with the use of chemicals.
Plastic decomposition is a slow process, so the waste remains on Earth for many years.
Plastic waste released into water bodies causes immense water pollution.
Plastic bags disposed of carelessly cause clogged drains and sewage lines.
We should switch to reusable, eco-friendly, and sustainable alternatives to plastic.
Waste plastic releases chemicals that enter the soil, making it infertile.
The disposal of plastic indiscriminately will ruin our planet entirely.
Banning plastic bags or levying taxes by the government can keep our environment safe.
The Indian government has issued guidelines to states to ban single-use plastic items from July 1, 2022.

An essay on the Plastic ban is essential to every kid’s learning. Here is a short essay for class 1, 2 and 3 that can educate children on better use and waste management of plastic products.

Plastic bags have gained widespread popularity as they are important industrially and are very cheap. However, they are non-biodegradable and take a long time to break into small particles. Only a few plastic bags are recyclable, and they create environmental pollution. Even the energy used for plastic production negatively affects our environment. The burning of plastic bags emits gas and smoke that are immensely toxic. When plastics found in the garbage are consumed by animals and sea creatures, it results in the death and extinction of these species. These bags can even jam the sewage lines if not disposed of away properly. Preservation of food in plastic bags can not only intoxicate it but causes fatal diseases like cancer. Even doctors advise us not to regularly drink hot beverages in plastic glasses and polythene, which may affect our health. Plastic bags strewn all over the land causes a decline in soil fertility and productivity. Plastic waste also affects marine life and causes an imbalance in biodiversity. We can find plastic waste everywhere, and it causes severe damage to nature. Recycling plastic bags is a very complicated, lengthy, and costly process, but it is possible to reduce the harm to mother nature by reusing plastic objects instead of throwing them after single use or switch to sustainable materials. Understanding the same, the Indian government has issued guidelines to states to ban single-use plastic items from July 1, 2022.

An essay for class 3 helps to evaluate a student’s research, analytical, and writing skills. Here is a long essay on plastic ban in English for kids that would encourage them to appreciate nature and ways to protect it.

Plastic bags are most convenient to use when shopping, either for groceries or daily provisions. Being lightweight, easy to carry, and readily available in the market, they have become an essential part of everyday life. However, this convenience of using them comes at a very high cost that may affect the environment and our human health negatively. Littering by indiscriminate use of plastics can cause significant damage to our environment. It threatens our natural resources such as water, trees, and crops. As plastics get defragmented into small pieces, they get easily swept away into our soil and end up in oceans, then consumed by wildlife and marine life. Thereby, the number of animals and marine life reduces or becomes extinct. Approximately 46,000-1,000,000 fragments of plastics can be seen floating within every square mile of the oceans. The use of 1 trillion non-biodegradable plastic bags worldwide and the burning of plastic bags are damaging our earth. When these plastic bags are burned, they release toxic gases into the atmosphere, creating air pollution. Several cities around the world have banned the usage of plastic bags, while some have implemented legal procedures against the use of plastic bags. Countries like China, Bangladesh, and India have banned using and selling polythene bags with a thickness of fewer than 50 microns. Plastics are generally made from non-renewable fossil fuel-based resources like polypropylene (material made from petroleum and natural gas). With the extraction and production, greenhouse gases are created that contribute to global warming and climate change.

According to Green Tumble reports, almost 35% of turtles die by ingesting plastic. ABC News reports found 25 bags in the stomach of a crocodile in Australia. According to a National Geographic report, nearly 90% of seabirds consume discarded plastic. We all must collectively contribute to making the plastic ban a success. Only when an educated lot of society takes it up as their responsibility to support the campaign against plastic ban we can save the environment.

Problems Caused By Plastic and Plastic Bags

Death Of Animals – Many animals ingest plastic bags every year. They die due to choking or other issues.
Toxic Chemicals – Plastic bags contain chemicals including BPA that cause harmful diseases in humans like ulcers, obesity, and asthma.
Clogging Of Drains – The drainage system is often blocked by the accumulation of plastics as
Groundwater Pollution – Chemicals mixed into the groundwater reservoirs enter our bodies through the plants and drinking water.

What You Can Use Instead of Plastic

There are many eco-friendly alternatives to plastic bags like recycled paper bags, jute bags, reusable cotton tote bags, and glass bottles.

How Can We Minimise The Use of Plastic?

Plastic bags contribute to plastic pollution in our environment. Here are some ways to minimise the use of plastics.

Many Indian states need to restrict the utilisation of plastics as directed by the government of India
By following stricter measures and creating general awareness, we can reduce the use of plastics.
More fines must be imposed on retailers for selling plastic bags.
The public should be fined for carrying plastic bags.

Plastic Ban In India

The Indian government has banned plastics to save our beautiful mother earth. At first, Sikkim went completely plastic-free, and then Himachal Pradesh became the first state to restrict plastic and polythene bag in 2009. In 2016, Karnataka banned all single-use plastic items, while Delhi banned all disposable plastic items in 2017. Later, Bihar, Tamilnadu, Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttarakhand implemented the ban in 2019. The Indian government has issued guidelines to states to ban single-use plastic items from July 1, 2022.

Your child will understand why they should not use plastic and why the plastic ban is important for our environment. They will also get aware of various ways to stop plastic usage.

Our throw-away culture causes plastic pollution in oceans and impacts biodiversity. We should find alternative and sustainable solutions to make our planet plastic-free for a better tomorrow.

Essay On Plastic Pollution for Kids How to Write An Essay On Land Pollution for Children Essay on Environmental Pollution for Lower Primary Classes

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Expert Commentary

The good and the bad of plastic bag bans: Research review

Government bans on lightweight plastic shopping bags have spread in recent years amid fears about plastic’s negative impact on the environment. But alternatives are not necessarily better.

Republish this article

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License .

by David Trilling, The Journalist's Resource December 13, 2016

This <a target="_blank" href="https://journalistsresource.org/environment/plastic-bag-bans-grocery-shopping-environment/">article</a> first appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://journalistsresource.org">The Journalist's Resource</a> and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.<img src="https://journalistsresource.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/cropped-jr-favicon-150x150.png" style="width:1em;height:1em;margin-left:10px;">

Plastic bags kill wildlife, clog waterways and pack landfills. Discarded bags can spread malaria if they collect rainwater, offering mosquitos a casual breeding ground. In recent years, local and national governments have begun phasing out or banning lightweight plastic shopping bags. But alternatives are not necessarily greener: People buy more plastic trash bags when shopping bags are unavailable. And a British government study found single-use paper bags contribute more toward global warming than plastic bags.

Not so straightforward:

For some activists, the effort to reduce the use of plastic shopping bags is both urgent and too late. According to a 2008 estimate in Waste Management, people around the world discard between 500 billion and 1 trillion plastic bags a year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) lists single-use plastic bags as a major contributor, along with food wrappers and fishing nets, to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch — vast, shifting waves of trash that often arrive via storm drains and rivers and can entangle marine life or be ingested . According to a 2014 estimate published in PLOS ONE , more than 5 trillion pieces of plastic (not all from bags) weighing a combined 250,000 tons are floating in the world’s oceans.

Yet substitutes also offer cause for concern. A comprehensive 2011 study by the British environmental agency argued that plastic bags are greener than many alternatives. A paper bag must be used four or more times “to reduce its global warming potential to below” that of conventional plastic bags. The reason is that paper production — from the felling of trees to the emissions and effluent from paper factories — is dirty. The study found “no significant reuse of paper bags,” not even as trash-can liners.

Legislation:

With a referendum in November 2016, California became the first state to ban single-use plastic bags, according to the National Conference on State Legislatures, which keeps an active list of American laws. Thicker, reusable bags are still available for purchase for 10 cents. Before California, cities often organized the bans: In 2016, for example, Cambridge became the first Massachusetts city to ban plastic bags altogether and require merchants to offer paper bags for a fee of no less than 10 cents. By contrast, Missouri’s legislature in 2015 forbid cities and counties in the state from enacting plastic bag bans.

The European Union passed legislation in 2015 aiming to cut plastic bag use in half by 2019 and half again by 2025. E.U.-member France went further, banning single-use plastic bags on July 1, 2016, and phasing in other , more restrictive bans in the upcoming years – including the prohibition of plastic cooking utensils by 2020.

Do these bans work? They do appear to reduce the number of shopping bags used, but the effect on demand for (potentially pernicious) alternatives is unknown.

Five years after Ireland instituted a 15 Euro cent levy on plastic bags in 2002 – Irish stores had been giving out 1.2 billion each year for free – a paper published in Environmental and Resource Economics suggested a 90 percent reduction in use.
One year after its ban San Jose reported “a reduction in bag litter of approximately 89 percent in the storm drain system, 60 percent in the creeks and rivers, and 59 percent in city streets and neighborhoods.”
Researchers at Cardiff University, in the United Kingdom, found that a fee for plastic bags introduced in October 2015 has led to a sharp decline in the number of shoppers who take single-use bags at checkout, from 25 percent to 7 percent after one year.
China, which banned many types of plastic bags in 2008, claims some successes. But some reports suggest the rule has been difficult to enforce.

Academics have measured consumer behavior and public opinion on plastic bags in many countries, including Turkey , Uganda and Canada . A 2016 study in Social Marketing Quarterly examines how shoppers respond to different incentives for bringing their own shopping bags – such as avoiding a fee or paying a tax – and remarks “that a penalty framed as a tax may be more effective in motivating shoppers to bring reusable bags.”

“Biodegradable” plastic bags:

In 2010, raw plastics production in the U.S. used the energy and natural gas equivalent of 172 million barrels of oil, government figures suggest. But some newer plastics are made from vegetable matter, allowing manufacturers to claim their plastics are biodegradable. In theory, that means these plastics can be used to feed bacteria that convert them into water, carbon dioxide and biological matter. But the process rarely works in a landfill – these products need to be composted with the right microbes. When they’re not, they may not break down at all or can release methane, a greenhouse gas. So-called starch-polyester bags, made from a blend of vegetable matter and synthetic plastics, had the highest global warming impact in the 2011 study conducted by the British environmental agency “due to the high impacts of raw material production, transport and the generation of methane from landfill[s].”

The European Union hosts an online forum to discuss biodegradable plastic bags.

Researchers have looked into the policy challenges of biodegradable plastics, how they break down in the ocean and wider environmental impacts .

Our health:

Besides assuming a deviant place in marine ecosystems, there are concerns about the synthetic compounds in plastic that may be oozing into our food. One of the main building blocks of plastics, bisphenol A (also known as BPA), has been shown to stimulate breast cancer cells and damage the quality of rat sperm. Phthalates are another subject of disquiet.

Microbeads:

Another plastic causing concern is the microbeads found in some exfoliating facial scrubs and toothpastes, which are rinsed down drains into rivers, lakes and oceans . A 2015 study in the Marine Pollution Bulletin estimated that between 4,594 and 94,500 microplastic particles pass into the sewer during each use (between 16 and 86 metric tons annually in Britain alone). A forthcoming study in Chemosphere finds that microbeads do not accumulate in the gut when fed to goldfish, though both studies recognize their chemical effect in the food chain is unknown. In 2015, President Obama signed the Microbead-Free Waters Act to ban microbeads in hygienic products, though they continue to be used in other countries.

Arguments for plastic:

Proponents of plastic bags argue that they are hygienic and cheap and preserve foods that would otherwise spoil. A number of lobbies have worked to confound legislation that would reduce the availability of plastic bags. In California, for example, The Washington Pos t found that the American Progressive Bag Alliance – a Washington-based group run by a plastics lobby – spent over $3 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 to oppose California’s attempts then to legislate a ban.

Plasticfilmrecycling.org (a project of the American Chemistry Council ) is supported with funds from large multinationals like Dow Chemical and ExxonMobil. Some organizations – such as the Plastics Industry Association , which directs visitors to the American Progressive Bag Alliance and bagtheban.com — support recycling as a solution, rather than less plastic.

Plastic shopping bags are widely reused as trash-can liners, the British environmental agency study points out. When they are banned, the study adds, consumers purchase more plastic trash bags: “The reuse of conventional HDPE [plastic] and other lightweight carrier bags for shopping and/or as bin-liners is pivotal to their environmental performance and reuse as bin liners produces greater benefits than recycling bags.”

Anti-plastic lobbying and activism:

The California plastic bag ban received support from the California Grocers Association . Grocery stores stood to benefit because the law mandated they charge 10 cents for reusable bags.

The American Forest and Paper Association argues for the use of paper bags and against the imposition of fees on paper bags.
A website – plasticbaglaws.org – founded by a California lawyer who consults for activist organizations, has a number of useful links .
The Worldwatch Institute , another nonprofit campaigner, estimates at least 267 animal species have suffered “from entanglement or ingestion of marine debris, and plastics and other synthetic materials.”

Other resources:

This 2011 E.U. study shows, among other things, that residents of eastern E.U. members and Portugal use the most plastic bags in the union.
Journalist’s Resource profiled a 2016 paper on gender stereotypes and environmentally friendly behavior that found some people think recycling is feminine.
A 2015 paper in the Journal of Marketing found that people who bring reusable grocery bags on their shopping trips may purchase more junk food.
NOAA has fact sheets on microplastics in the ocean and plastic marine debris .

Keywords: Trash, pollution, waste, plastics, regulations, petrochemicals, chemical lobby

About The Author

David Trilling

Essay on Why Plastic Bags Should be Banned in English for Children and Students

Table of Contents

Plastic bags are a major contributor to plastic pollution – a kind of pollution that is deteriorating our environment. It is a threat to life on Earth. Plastic bags must be banned in order to reduce pollution. Plastic bags cause land, air as well as water pollution. This is the reason why these have been banned in various countries. However, these are still being widely used in most parts of the world and are proving to be hazardous for the environment. Essay on Why Plastic Bags Should be Banned.

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Long and Short Essay on Why Plastic Bags Should be Banned in English

Here are essays on why plastic bags should be banned of varying lengths to help you with the topic in your exams and school assignments. You can select any why plastic bags should be banned essay as per your need and interest:

Short Essay on Why Plastic Bags should be Banned – Essay 1 (200 words)

Plastic bags are readily available in the market and are used widely. These are especially popular at the grocery stores since they come handy in carrying the grocery items. Available in various sizes these are quite economical and also easy to carry. However, the cost we are paying for using these bags is overlooked. These bags are costing us our beautiful environment. Yes! The plastic bags that we use in our everyday life are hazardous for the environment.

The problem is much serious than it appears. Researchers claim that plastic bags are a major cause of water pollution. These are also responsible for making our agricultural lands infertile and a cause of a number of other serious problems. Many countries have banned the use of plastic bags in order to ensure a cleaner and greener environment. India is also among one of these countries.

Our country has banned the use of plastic bags in many states. However, the implementation of this rule hasn’t been proper. These are still available in the market. The retailers provide goods in these bags and the shoppers gladly take their stuff in these easy to carry bags. It is time each one of us must understand the severity of the issue and stop the use of plastic bags.

Essay on Environmental Pollution and Plastic – Essay 2 (300 words)

Introduction

The degree of pollution in our environment is rising by the day. It has increased rapidly with the advent of industrial revolution. The growing number of factories and vehicles on our planet has increased the pollution level many folds in the last few decades. While the smoke from the vehicles and factories has polluted the air adversely making it difficult to breathe, the industrial and residential waste has contributed majorly to the water and land pollution giving way to several serious illnesses.

Plastic: Major Cause of Environmental Pollution

Among other things, plastic plays a major role in pollution in today’s time. Plastic which is derived from fossil fuels such as oil and petroleum is being widely used for manufacturing numerous things including plastic bags, kitchenware, furniture, doors, sheeting, packing material, counter tops and what not. People prefer items made of plastic as these are light weight compared to wood or metal items and are also quite economical.

The increasing use of plastic is increasing the amount of plastic waste which is hard to dispose of. Plastic is a non-biodegradable substance. It breaks into pieces, deteriorates over the time but does not become one with the soil. Plastic remains in the environment for hundreds of years and adds to environmental pollution. It goes into the landfills and leaks pollutants that damage soil and water. Plastic cannot even be disposed of by burning as on burning it produces poisonous gases that can cause serious diseases. Disposing plastic has thus become a big challenge today.

Plastic bags that form a major part of the plastic pollution are thus being banned in many countries. However, merely banning plastic bags shall not help. Ban must be imposed on other plastic items as well to bring down the environmental pollution.

It is high time we must understand the intensity at which plastic is destroying our environment and making life difficult for plants, animals, marine creatures as well as human beings. The use of plastic products must be lowered to ensure a cleaner environment.

Essay on Why Plastic Bags are Harmful for Health – Essay 3 (400 words)

Plastic bags that we commonly use in our everyday lives are a threat for life on Earth. These have slowly swept into our lives and are becoming a major cause of illness in animals as well as human beings.

Plastic Bags: Harmful for Human Health

Plastic bags are extremely harmful for human health. From the time these are manufactured till the time these are disposed of as waste – plastic bags do nothing but harm the human health adversely.

The toxic chemicals produced while giving plastic bags their desirable form have a negative impact on the health of those involved in their making. Plastic bags are widely used for food packaging. Researchers claim that some toxic elements from the plastic enter the food items packed in them. Plastic bags thus contaminate the food rather than keeping it safely packed. Many cases of plastic causing harm to the food have been reported. Eating such food can cause food poisoning, intestinal problems and other health hazards. Plastic bags can even lead to suspected human carcinogen.

Apart from this, plastic bags produce immense amount of non-biodegradable waste. This waste remains on earth for almost 500 years. This waste material enters water bodies and degrades the quality of drinking water. The quality of drinking water has gone down drastically in the last few decades. It is majorly because of the increasing amount of plastic bags being dumped in the rivers that are a source of drinking water. This has given way to various water-borne diseases.

Plastic Bags: Cause Serious Illness in Animals

Animals and marine creatures are worst effected by waste plastic bags. We throw the plastic bags thoughtlessly after use. These plastic bags form a major part of the garbage areas where the innocent animals go looking for food. Animals often eat small plastic content and even the entire plastic bags along with their food. Small plastic content accumulates in their body and causes health problems over the time. On the other hand, gulping the entire plastic bag in one go can suffocate them to death instantly.

It is the same with the marine creatures. The water bodies are polluted immensely because of plastic waste. It is deteriorating the quality of water that marine creatures drink. Fishes, turtles and other marine creatures also eat plastic content and sometimes gulp the entire plastic bag mistaking it for food and eventually fall ill.

Plastic bags are thus extremely harmful for health. It is in our favour to stop their use and switch to eco-friendly alternatives.

Essay on Problems Caused by Plastic Bags – Essay 4 (500 words)

Plastic bags are quite popular because these are light weight and thus easy to carry. Besides, unlike cloth or paper bags, we do not even require purchasing these as we go shopping. These are economical and thus given freely by the shopkeepers on the purchase of goods. It is because of all these reasons that plastic bags are preferred by both shopkeepers and shoppers. However, we need to look beyond momentary convenience and see the bigger picture.

Problems Caused by Plastic Bags

Here are some of the problems caused by plastic bags:

Non Biodegradable

Plastic bags are non-biodegradable. Thus, disposing them of is the biggest challenge. They break down into small particles and enter the soil and water bodies however they do not decompose. They remain in the soil and water for hundreds of years and release toxic chemicals thereby damaging our beautiful planet.

Deterioration of Environment

They are destroying the nature owing to their harmful effect. Plastic bags have become a major cause of land pollution today. The waste plastic bags are thrown into the landfills where they take almost around 500 years to decompose. These bags are light in weight and are easily carried by the wind to places far and wide. The litter caused by them on the land and the landfills causes land pollution. The plastic bags that enter the water bodies are a major cause of the water pollution. These are thus deteriorating our environment in every possible way.

Harmful for Animals and Marine Creatures

Animals and marine creatures consume plastic particles along with their food. Plastic cannot be digested and thus gets trapped in their intestines. Large amount of plastic is accumulated in the intestines of various animals and sea creatures and results in serious health problems in them. Sometimes, animals gulp the entire plastic bag by mistake. This gets stuck in their throat or intestines and chokes them to death. Sea turtles are especially known to have the entire plastic bag in one go mistaking it for jelly fish. Research shows that waste plastic bags have been a major cause of untimely animal deaths.

Cause of Illness in Humans

The production of plastic bags releases toxic chemicals that can cause serious illness among those involved in their production. Food packed in plastic bags can also cause health hazards. Besides, as mentioned above waste plastic bags cause environmental pollution. Polluted environment is a major cause of various diseases caught by the human beings.

Clogged Sewage

Waste plastic bags often run down with water or are blown by the wind and get trapped in the drains and sewers. Clogged sewers and drains can be a threat to the human beings as well as animals especially during rains. The water gets accumulated as the drains are blocked because of plastic bags. This can result in flood like situation and disrupt the normal life of people.

We need to understand the problems being caused by the easy-to-carry plastic bags and stop their use. It is time our government should take some strict measures to ban plastic bags.

Long Essay on Why Plastic Bags should be Banned – Essay 5 (600 words)

Plastic bags are a major cause of environmental pollution. Plastic as a substance is non-biodegradable and thus plastic bags remain in the environment for hundreds of years polluting it immensely. It has become extremely essential to ban plastic bags before they ruin our planet completely.

Countries that have Banned Plastic Bags

Many countries around the globe have either put a ban on plastic bag or levi tax on it in order to restrict its usage. Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Morocco, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Taiwan, England, Germany, Hawaii, New York, Italy, Scotland, Rhode Island and Maine are among some of these. These measures have brought down the usage of plastic bags to a large extent. However, the problem hasn’t been solved completely because the implementation of these measures hasn’t been as successful.

Black market for plastic bags exists in some of these countries and these toxic bags are still being circulated illegally.

Reasons to Ban Plastic Bags

There are numerous reasons why the government of various countries have come up with strict measures to limit the use of plastic bags. Some of these include:

Waste plastic bags are polluting the land and water immensely.
Plastic bags have become a threat to the life of animals living on earth as well as in water.
Chemicals released by waste plastic bags enter the soil and make it infertile.
Plastic bags are having negative impact on the human health.
Plastic bags lead to drainage problem.

Public Must Support Plastic Bag Ban

While the Indian government has imposed ban on the usage of plastic bags in many states, people are still seen carrying these bags. Shopkeepers stop providing plastic bags to the shoppers for a few days every now and then but switch back to them as the government doesn’t take any strong measures to stop their production and distribution. It is time we must contribute our bit to make this ban a success.

We, the educated lot of the society must take it as our responsibility to stop the use of plastic bags and ensure that those around us stop using these too. Here is how we can support the government in this direction:

We are so accustomed to using plastic bags that it is difficult to stop their usage completely all of a sudden. In order to be successful in this mission, we must keep reminding ourselves about the harmful effects of the plastic bags on our nature and keep a tab on their use. Gradually, we will become habitual to doing without these bags.

Seek Alternatives

There are many eco friendly alternatives to plastic bags. Instead of taking plastic bags to carry our grocery items and other stuff, we can carry a reusable jute or cloth bag each time we head to the market.

We should reuse the plastic bags we already have at home as many times as we can before throwing them away.

Spread Awareness

While the government should spread awareness about the harmful effects of plastic bags and the need to ban them by way of advertisements and hoardings, we can also spread awareness through word of mouth. We can educate our house help, car cleaner and kids in the society about the environmental problems caused due to plastic bags and urge them to stop its use.

The problems caused due to plastic bags have often been overlooked and underestimated. This is because people do not look at the long term effect of these small, easy to carry bags they use in their everyday life. They keep using these bags owing to the convenience they offer completely ignoring the fact that these bags have adverse effect on the environment and are a threat to life on earth.

Other Helpful Resources on Plastic Bags

Essay on Single Use Plastic Ban

Students are often asked to write an essay on Single Use Plastic Ban in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Single Use Plastic Ban

Introduction.

Single-use plastic is a type of plastic that is used only once before being discarded. These include items like plastic bags, straws, and water bottles.

Problem with Single-Use Plastic

Single-use plastics cause environmental harm. They take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to pollution. Animals can mistake them for food, causing harm.

Benefits of a Ban

Banning single-use plastic reduces pollution and protects wildlife. It encourages the use of reusable items, promoting sustainability.

In conclusion, a single-use plastic ban is essential for the environment. It promotes a healthier, more sustainable world.

250 Words Essay on Single Use Plastic Ban

Single-use plastics, the ubiquitous symbols of consumer culture, have become a pressing environmental concern. They are non-biodegradable, causing significant harm to ecosystems and wildlife, and contributing to the world’s growing waste problem.

The Need for a Ban

The call for a ban on single-use plastics is not without reason. According to the United Nations, approximately 8 million tons of plastic ends up in the oceans annually, wreaking havoc on marine life and ecosystems. Furthermore, the production and disposal of these plastics contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.

Challenges and Alternatives

While the necessity of the ban is evident, its implementation presents challenges. Single-use plastics are deeply entrenched in our daily lives, from packaging to disposable cutlery. Transitioning requires not only viable alternatives but also a shift in societal behavior and consumption patterns. Alternatives like biodegradable plastics, reusable containers, and zero-waste products are gaining traction, but their widespread adoption calls for substantial infrastructure and policy support.

In conclusion, a ban on single-use plastics is an urgent environmental imperative. However, it necessitates a holistic approach that addresses the complexities of the issue, from the availability of alternatives to behavioral change. The path towards a plastic-free world is challenging, yet with concerted efforts, it is achievable. The ban on single-use plastics is but the first step in this journey towards sustainable living.

500 Words Essay on Single Use Plastic Ban

Single-use plastics, also known as disposable plastics, are used only once before they are thrown away or recycled. They include plastic bags, straws, coffee stirrers, soda and water bottles, and most food packaging. The ubiquity of single-use plastic is a significant contributor to environmental pollution, posing a serious threat to ecosystems and human health. Therefore, there has been a global push for a single-use plastic ban.

The Problem with Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics are non-biodegradable, meaning they do not decompose naturally in the environment. Instead, they slowly break down into smaller pieces, known as microplastics, which can take hundreds to thousands of years to decompose completely. This slow decomposition leads to persistent environmental contamination.

Moreover, single-use plastics are a primary source of marine pollution. They endanger marine life as animals often mistake plastic waste for food, leading to ingestion and entanglement. The microplastics also enter the food chain, posing potential health risks to humans.

Given the detrimental impact of single-use plastics, a ban is necessary to mitigate these effects. A ban would significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated, consequently reducing environmental pollution. It would also drive innovation in the development of sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.

Challenges in Implementing a Ban

However, implementing a single-use plastic ban is not without challenges. Plastics are integral to many industries due to their cost-effectiveness, light weight, and durability. Thus, a sudden ban could disrupt these industries and potentially lead to job losses.

Additionally, there is the challenge of managing consumer behavior. Many consumers are accustomed to the convenience of single-use plastics, and changing this behavior requires time and education.

Possible Solutions

Despite these challenges, solutions exist. Governments can gradually phase out single-use plastics, giving industries time to adapt and innovate. They can also provide incentives for companies to develop and use sustainable alternatives.

Education and awareness campaigns can help change consumer behavior. People need to understand the impact of their actions on the environment and be encouraged to adopt more sustainable practices.

In conclusion, the single-use plastic ban is a necessary step towards a sustainable future. Despite the challenges, it is feasible with careful planning, innovation, and public education. The ban will not only reduce environmental pollution but also drive the development of sustainable alternatives, ultimately contributing to the health of our planet and future generations.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Essay on Single Use Plastic
Essay on Should Plastic be Banned
Essay on Say No to Plastic

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Plastic Pollution Essay

500+ words essay on plastic pollution.

Plastic has become an integral part of our daily lives. We begin our day using mugs and buckets made of plastic for bathing. Further, as we trace back our activities throughout the day, we use plastic in the form of water bottles, combs, food packaging, milk pouches, straws, disposable cutlery, carry bags, gift wrappers, toys etc. The wide use of plastic has resulted in a large amount of waste generated. Plastic has been so much used that plastic pollution has become one of the environmental problems that the world is facing today. It has impacted the environment, our health and well-being. We have all contributed to this problem, and now it’s our responsibility to work towards it to reduce and ultimately End Plastic Pollution. This essay on plastic pollution will help students to understand the harmful effects of using plastic and how it is affecting our environment. So, students must go through it and then try to write their own essays on this topic. They can also practise CBSE essays on different topics as well.

Plastic Pollution

The accumulation of plastic products in huge amounts in the Earth’s environment is called plastic pollution. It adversely affects wildlife, wildlife habitat, and humans, which has become a major concern. In 2008, our global plastic consumption worldwide was estimated at 260 million tons. Plastic is versatile, lightweight, flexible, moisture-resistant, strong, and relatively inexpensive, because of which it is excessively used by everyone. It has replaced and displaced many other materials, such as wood, paper, stone, leather, metal, glass and ceramic. Plastics have come to clutter almost every landscape. In the modern world, plastics can be found in components ranging from stationery items to spaceships. Therefore, the over-consumption of plastic goods, discarding, littering, use and throwing culture has resulted in plastic waste generation and thus creating plastic pollution.

Every day, thousands of tons of pollutants are discarded into the air by natural events and human actions. Far more damaging are the substances discharged into the atmosphere by human actions. Most plastics are highly resistant to the natural processes of degradation. As a result, it takes a longer period of time to degrade the plastic. It has resulted in the enormous presence of plastic pollution in the environment and, at the same time, adversely affected human health. It is estimated that plastic waste constitutes approximately 10% of the total municipal waste worldwide and that 80% of all plastic found in the world’s oceans originates from land-based sources.

How to Manage Plastic Pollution?

To save the environment from plastic waste, we should minimise and ultimately end the use of plastic. Each one of us has to learn the following 4 R’s:

Refuse – Say no to plastic, particularly single-use plastic, as much as possible.
Reduce – Limit or reduce the use of plastic in daily life.
Reuse – Reuse plastic products as much as possible before disposing of them.
Recycle – Plastic products should be recycled into other usable products. This reduces the demand for manufacturing raw plastic required to make various plastic products.

Apart from that, we should educate other people around us. We should create awareness campaigns in public places and help people know about plastic pollution and its harmful effects. We should stop this culture of using and throwing and start reusing things. When everyone takes a pledge to minimise the use of plastic, then we will be able to manage plastic pollution.

Students must have found this Essay on Plastic Pollution helpful for improving their writing section. They can also access more study material related to CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive exams, by visiting the BYJU’S website.

Frequently asked Questions on Plastic pollution Essay

How does plastic pollution affect the environment.

Excessive usage of plastic products has caused the accumulation of this plastic on Earth. Plastic is non-biodegradable and does not naturally degrade or break down thus these plastics are flooded over the Earth.

How to reduce plastic usage?

Replacement of plastic items with jute, cotton and other biodegradable items needs to come into practice more.

What are the simple steps to avoid plastic overuse?

The simple 3 R method can be followed: “Reduce, reuse and recycle”.

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Plastic Ban Essay in English for Students

January 15, 2022 by Sandeep

Essay on Plastic Ban: A toxic synthetic material that is essentially non-biodegradable is called plastic. Plastic disposed of in public places is consumed by cows and stray animals and can lead to health complications. Plastic pollution contaminates the land, causes soil erosion, and decreases soil fertility. Below we have provided Plastic Ban Essay in English, written in easy and simple words for class 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 school students.

Essay on Plastic Ban

Plastic is a synthetic material, which means that it does not occur naturally and is made by humans. Plastic has many uses in daily life and is highly convenient, which is why it can be found almost anywhere. Many substances found in nature are biodegradable, which means that they can be dumped on land, and they will naturally degrade over time without harming the environment.

Plastic is non-biodegradable, which means that it does the opposite. It degrades very slowly and is capable of causing significant damage to the surroundings and hence to the Earth as a whole. Around the world, many people are very careless with their disposal of plastic items. Sometimes people create massive landfills, thinking that if all the plastic is dumped far away from people’s homes, it won’t cause a problem.

This is false because it makes the surroundings toxic and can harm the surrounding animal and plant life. Moreover, some people burn plastic, which creates poisonous gas. Some people even go as far as to dump plastic in the sea; this is dangerous because a plastic bag looks like a jellyfish to an innocent turtle. They end up accidentally consuming the plastic, which chokes and kills them. Some fish also get stuck in plastic and die because of being trapped.

Therefore we must spread awareness about the dangerous effects of plastic pollution. To prevent contributing to this dangerous phenomenon, one can start finding ways to reduce the use of plastic, reuse plastic goods, and recycle them. Instead of using plastic bags, we can use cloth or natural fiber bags and even use only stainless steel containers to store food.

Plastic Ban in India

The plastic ban in India was probably the best thing that the Indian government did for the sake of our beautiful mother Earth. However, the plastic ban has not yet been implemented in all the states of India, and there are only a few states that are currently practicing it.

Sikkim was the first place in India to be completely plastic free, and Himachal Pradesh was the first place ever in India to ban plastic and polythene bags, a ban initiated in 2009. In the years following then, there have been 25 more states that have picked up the initiative too and followed in their lead. In some states, a complete ban is being followed, while other states follow only a partial ban. Karnataka, in the year 2016, had banned all single-use plastic items. In 2017, our capital city Delhi banned all disposable plastic items.

The latest states to have joined the bandwagon are Bihar, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, and Tamil Nadu, the last state being Tamil Nadu which implemented the ban on 1st January 2019. Each state has set up exemptions to the ban and a fixed penalty in case of going against the ban and using the plastic item. At present, almost 25 states have banned plastic in India. India has also announced that by 2022, all single use plastic items will be banned entirely in India.

Alternatives to Plastic

The alternatives to plastic are almost never ending. The best part about these alternatives is that they are reusable and biodegradable when the time comes for them to be disposed of. All polythene and plastic bags must be replaced entirely by either paper bags for the lighter materials or cloth bags for other heavy items.

Cloth bags are probably the best alternative because they can be reused as many times as you’d like and can even be washed and dried. Paper bags are also helpful and can be easily recycled. However, it is not as good an alternative because many trees are cut down to make one sheet of paper. Hence, I support cloth bags for maximum usage.

According to a study from Plymouth University, plastic pollution affects at least 700 marine species. At the same time, some estimates suggest that at least 100 million marine mammals are killed each year from this disastrous pollution. The amount of relief the plastic ban has brought to our environment is almost immeasurable. But just by banning something, the problem is not completely solved. We need to follow the law with all our efforts and dedication to seeing that our actions are not detrimental to our mother, Earth.

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Single Use Plastics Essay – 500 Words [2024]

The use of single-use plastics is causing extensive damage to the environment. So it is a big concern for the world. So today we are sharing this topic Single Use Plastic Essay In English 500 Words to my readers.

Table of Contents

Introduction

In our country India, many companies produce millions of tons of single-use plastics every year, most of which can not be recycled. Once the single-use plastic is used then it is thrown away in the garbage. It is very harmful to the life of human beings, animals, plants, and marine creatures. That is why the Indian government has strictly banned the use of these things.

What is single-use plastic?

Generally, single-use plastic means disposable plastic. All the plastic products that we cannot reuse are called single-use plastic. The main component of single-use plastic is petroleum. These are produced at very low cost and we are used widely nowadays. Since it cannot be used more than once and it is not spoiled, these are extremely harmful to the ecology.

Examples of single-use plastic

Single-use plastics include plastic bags, plastic glass, polythene, straws, plastic cups, dishes, plastic soda, water bottles, and food packaging items. All these items are used only once and after that are thrown far away in the garbage.

Harmful effects of single-use plastic

1. Single-use plastics are not biodegradable. They usually go under the ground where it is buried it goes into the water and after sometimes it goes into the sea through rivers.

2. Plastics break down into smaller particles by entering soil and water bodies and they do not decompose. Single-use plastics live in the soil and water more than hundred years.

3. The use of single-use plastic is very dangerous for humans, and animals.

4. With the food of water aquatic animals the plastic particles go inside the body. Since plastic is not digestible it has a deadly effect on the body of aquatic animals.

Elimination of single-use plastic

It is now known to all of us what single-use plastic can do to our beautiful planet. So it’s time to eliminate or at least reduce the use of plastics in our daily life. Following are some ways which can be acquired to deal with this burning problem.

Reduce of usage of Plastics

To effectively reduce the menace of plastic pollution, we ourselves are badly in need of reducing our usage of plastics. Everyone should build habits of carrying reusable shopping bags, avoiding bottled water, and drinking tea from a reusable cup. The main motto should be not to use plastics when there is a better alternative.

Reuse of Plastics

In spite of all our efforts, if we found hornists and have been compelled to use, then we should think about reusing those plastics. Many plastics can be reused for different purposes e.g. in art and craft, as resistance, etc. So before throwing the plastics into the garbage we just have to consider its reusage.

Recycle of Plastics

In unavoidable cases, one should go for recyclable plastic instead of single-use plastic, so that these can be reprocessed into new products and thus the load of plastics may be reduced in the wastage pant.

Awareness of using Plastics

Apart from all means, the most important work is to grow awareness among the people to change the mindsets and make a significant behavioral change regularly the reduction of single-use plastic.

Single-use plastics are a serious threat to the environment. It can really be one of the major causes of the destruction of our beautiful planet. So it is crucial to reduce, rather stop the usage of single-use plastic by getting habituated with eco-friendly products. Everyone should take an oath at the core of their heart to protect our world from plastic pollution.

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Governor hopes to delay ban on single use plastic

Critics of a ban argue for recycling, but there are limited markets, and some plastics cannot be recycled.

In 2021, when Democrats controlled the General Assembly and Ralph Northam was governor, they approved a bill banning single-use plastic containers – including polystyrene foam used for take-out orders. That ban was supposed to begin in 2023 – and at the non-profit Environment Virginia, state director Elly Boehmer Wilson was pleased.

“Plastics don’t decompose,” she explains. “They break down into little pieces that remain on this earth forever, and so we are consuming what’s estimated at a credit card’s worth of plastic every week.”

And, she says, the stuff is dangerous for wildlife – turtles, birds and marine mammals that mistake it for food.

“It fills up their stomach, so they have the sensation of being full, but they actually starve to death. Whether it be a turtle or a washed ashore whale, when they open up the stomach they see it’s jam-packed with plastic.”

Because it’s lightweight trash that’s easily blown from garbage cans and trucks, and because there’s so much of it, she adds, plastic pollution has become a big problem.

“Whether it’s intentional litter or if you walk down your alley and see that – even though it’s lined with trash cans – there are still little pieces of plastic everywhere.”

Wilson reports the legislation was popular with the public, but when Republicans took control of the state house and governor’s mansion, they pushed the start date to 2025. Now, Glenn Youngkin wants the ban to begin in 2028 for big companies and 2030 for smaller ones. Environmentalists hope to stop this new delay.

“Nothing we use for just a couple of minutes should be polluting our planet and our bodies for generations to come,” Wilson concludes.

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Should Plastic Be Banned Essay for Students
500+ Words Essay on Should Plastic be Banned. Plastic bags are a major cause of environmental pollutio n. Plastic as a substance is non-biodegradable and thus plastic bags remain in the environment for hundreds of years polluting it immensely. It has become very essential to ban plastic bags before they ruin our planet completely.
Plastic Ban Essay
Essay on Plastic Ban. Plastic bags are a very big threat to the environment. They are mostly made of organic polymers which are nothing but long chains of carbon atoms. These polymers are very stable chemically and hence, cannot be broken down by environmental factors easily. Plastic bags are widely used as they are important industrially and ...
Plastic Pollution Essay for Students and Children
The government must put a plastic ban on the use of plastic. All this can prevent plastic pollution to a large extent. FAQs on Plastic Pollution Essay. Q.1 Why is plastic pollution on the rise? A.1 Plastic Pollution is on the rise because nowadays people are using plastic endlessly. It is very economical and easily available.
Arguments Why Plastic Should Be Banned
Banning single-use plastics is the only true way to do it. Bags were a good start, but bottles, cups, straws, and cutlery will be a harder sell. This is especially true for small businesses and chains who rely on low-cost options to serve and sell their wares. In the end, allowances will always have to be considered.
Should Plastic be Banned Essay for Students in English
The pervasive use of plastic, while convenient and durable, has unleashed a hidden monster - plastic pollution. This threat affects every corner of the planet, endangering life on land and in water. Banning single-use plastics is crucial for a healthier planet and a brighter future. Plastic pollution extends to our oceans, with an estimated 8 ...
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From this essay on "Should Plastic Be Banned", students will get to know the damage that plastic causes to the environment and why it is essential to ban plastic items. We have also compiled a list of CBSE Essays on different topics, which will help students to improve their essay-writing skills. So, students must go through them and ...
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Students are often asked to write an essay on Plastic Ban in their schools and colleges. And if you're also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic. ... 500 Words Essay on Plastic Ban The Imperative of Plastic Ban. Plastic, a material once celebrated for its durability and versatility, has ...
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Essay on Plastic Ban (1000+ Words) Plastic bags are a significant source of plastic pollution. Plastic pollution significantly contributes to the deterioration of our environment. There should be a plastic ban to decrease in plastic pollution. Plastic bags cause land, water and air pollution. Decomposing of plastic waste is also a significant ...
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Why Plastic Bags Should Be Banned. Plastic, once hailed as a revolutionary material for its versatility and convenience, has now evolved into an unprecedented global environmental crisis. The ubiquity of plastic in our daily lives has led to a proliferation of plastic waste, causing profound harm to ecosystems, human health, and economies ...
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In " Get Ready, New York: The Plastic Bag Ban Is Starting ," Anne Barnard writes about the law and its intended outcomes: New York is banning the distribution of single-use plastic bags ...
Should Plastic be Banned Essay for Students in English
Plastic bags pollute the land, the air, and the water. This is the rationale behind the bans on them in a number of nations. Nevertheless, these are still frequently utilized and proven to be harmful to the environment in most regions of the world. In this article, we will exoplore essays arguing in favor of banning plastic bags.
Essay On Plastic Ban in English for Classes 1,2,3 Kids: 10 Lines
Essay writing is integral to all students' school curriculum, including debates and speeches. An essay on plastic ban for classes 1, 2 and 3 teaches kids to gain awareness of the dangerous effects of environmental pollution caused by plastic and how it contributes to global climate change.
The good and the bad of plastic bag bans: Research review
Anti-plastic lobbying and activism: The California plastic bag ban received support from the California Grocers Association. Grocery stores stood to benefit because the law mandated they charge 10 cents for reusable bags. The American Forest and Paper Association argues for the use of paper bags and against the imposition of fees on paper bags.
Should Plastic Be Banned: Essay
As of 2016, 100 million metric tons of plastic waste have ended up in the ocean. 75% of all plastic produced is waste because it is single-use and disposable. Plastic waste is often majorly mismanaged, and plastic is left uncollected, openly dumped, littered, or managed through uncontrolled landfills. Of the mismanaged waste about 87% of it is ...
Should Plastic be Banned Essay
The plastic ban on disposable water bottles is an excellent idea because it will reduce waste and help the environment. However, the Government needs to ensure that all pre-existing containers are recycled instead of thrown away. This will ensure that there is no unnecessary waste and pollution. We hope this essay on should plastic be banned ...
(Essay on Why Plastic Bags Should be Banned) in English
Short Essay on Why Plastic Bags should be Banned - Essay 1 (200 words) Plastic bags are readily available in the market and are used widely. These are especially popular at the grocery stores since they come handy in carrying the grocery items. Available in various sizes these are quite economical and also easy to carry.
Essay on Single Use Plastic Ban
Students are often asked to write an essay on Single Use Plastic Ban in their schools and colleges. And if you're also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic. ... 500 Words Essay on Single Use Plastic Ban Introduction.
Essay on Plastic Ban in India
According to a UN Plastic collective report an estimated 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic has been produced since the early 1950s and is still disturbing the land and its dwellers because of hazardous noxious effects. According to a report India alone generates 9.46 tonnes of plastic waste every year.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: Plastic Bags
Sample Answer Analysis. 1. No one would deny that the plastic bags used in supermarkets and shops have a negative effect on the environment because they do not degrade and end up as litter in our cities or oceans. 2. However, the replacements for plastic bags also carry significant environmental risks. 3.
Plastic
The Plastic - A Boon Or A Bane? essay 100, 150, 200, 250 words in English helps the students with their class assignments, comprehension tasks, and even for competitive examinations. You can also find more Essay Writing articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.
Plastic Pollution Essay For Students In English
The simple 3 R method can be followed: "Reduce, reuse and recycle". Plastic Pollution Essay: Go through the 500+ Words Essay on Plastic Pollution and know about plastic pollution, how it is generated and the way through which it can be controlled. Then practice and try to write your essay in your own words.
Plastic Ban Essay in English
Essay on Plastic Ban: A toxic synthetic material that is essentially non-biodegradable is called plastic. Plastic disposed of in public places is consumed by cows and stray animals and can lead to health complications. Plastic pollution contaminates the land, causes soil erosion, and decreases soil fertility. Below we have provided Plastic Ban Essay in English, written in easy and simple words ...
Single Use Plastics Essay
Single-use plastics live in the soil and water more than hundred years. 3. The use of single-use plastic is very dangerous for humans, and animals. 4. With the food of water aquatic animals the plastic particles go inside the body. Since plastic is not digestible it has a deadly effect on the body of aquatic animals.
Governor hopes to delay ban on single use plastic
Governor Youngkin has proposed more than 200 amendments to the state budget, and one of them would delay the implementation of a ban on single-use plastics. As Sandy Hausman reports, plastic and ...
A Tenured Professor Was Removed From the Classroom After Writing a Pro
A tenured professor was removed from the classroom after she wrote a pro-Palestine essay. Jodi Dean (above), a professor of politics at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, was temporarily removed ...

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Just a Few Choice Arguments as to Why Plastic Should be Banned

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Essay on Plastic Ban: Why We Must Ban Plastic

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Why Plastic Bags Should Be Banned

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The good and the bad of plastic bag bans: Research review

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Essay on Why Plastic Bags Should be Banned in English for Children and Students

Long and Short Essay on Why Plastic Bags Should be Banned in English

Short Essay on Why Plastic Bags should be Banned – Essay 1 (200 words)

Essay on Environmental Pollution and Plastic – Essay 2 (300 words)

Essay on Why Plastic Bags are Harmful for Health – Essay 3 (400 words)

Essay on Problems Caused by Plastic Bags – Essay 4 (500 words)

Long Essay on Why Plastic Bags should be Banned – Essay 5 (600 words)

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