Meenakshi Rajwanshi*
Department of Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Received : 18th May, 2024 ; Revised : 11th June, 2024
DOI:-https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14991686
Abstract– Plastic waste is a major cause in polluting earth, ecosystem and health worldwide. Plastic waste leads to land pollution as it accumulates in the form of litter. It comes from industries and also generates during transport and off-loading. Plastic waste pollutes aquatic environment through littering or transport in water systems. After mixing in oceans, surface currents, tides and waves results in dispersion and re-suspension of plastic waste. Atmospheric fallout is also a reason of widespread micro-plastics. Plastic pollution (macro, micro, and nano-plastic waste) alters natural cycles, exerts biological impacts on various important species, and leads to ecological toxicity. The future, recycling and socioeconomics of plastic are very complex issues. Other than plastic production, misbehaviour of consumers in terms of improper disposal after using plastic is a major contributor in production of plastic waste. Various economic and political factors, ignorant behaviour of governments and stakeholders, different opinions of scientists, and under-reported or overlooked polluters are the major culprits. To overcome plastic pollution problem, change in pre and post consumption behaviour is important. Education, awareness and reduction in the plastic demand altogether with better industrial solutions and improved government policies can do better in solving plastic pollution problem. A modern plastics economy should replace the existing plastic economy for sustainable development. A green or eco-friendly polymer like ‘green plastic’ is also an option. The policymakers, stakeholders, entrepreneurs, NGOs, citizens and researchers must effort to ensure some sustainable solutions to solve the problem of plastic pollution that will fight to plastic waste related existing issues and future threats as well.
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