World Environment Day celebrates its 50th anniversary this year

Despite their negative environmental impact, plastics have become an essential element of human life.
The fifth of June is World Environment Day, which serves as a reminder of our responsibilities to eliminate plastic pollution.

World Environment Day celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, having been managed by UNEP since 1973.
World Environment Day has developed to become the largest global venue for environmental outreach.
#BeatPlasticPollution is the theme. The theme of this year’s World Environment Day is the critical need to battle plastic waste.

Plastic pollution is a significant global issue that must be addressed immediately.
Every year, about 400 million tonnes of plastic are manufactured, with less than 10% recycled.
Plastic pollution has a severe impact on ecosystems and poses a risk to human health.

Plastics’ Versatile Nature: Plastics are synthetic materials that can be formed and moulded to meet specific needs.
Plastic Types: Commodity plastics including PET, HDPE, PVC, LDPE, PP, and PS dominate global production.
Different Properties and Identification Codes: Plastics can be identified by their resin identification codes (RIC) and have distinct properties.

Plastics have revolutionised many industries, yet they pose serious environmental challenges.
Plastics decompose slowly, resulting in the persistence of plastic trash.
Microplastics, both primary and secondary, accumulate in a variety of situations.
Toxic substances and health hazards
Toxic compounds found in microplastics endanger human health.
Bisphenol A (BPA) in microplastics can be harmful to human health.

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a massive accumulation of plastic and microplastic garbage in the Pacific Ocean.
It originated as a result of converging ocean currents and is located in the North Pacific Ocean.
It has a surface size of 1.6 million square kilometres and smaller areas in other oceans.

The Importance of Collective Action: Plastic pollution necessitates collaborative efforts and prompt action.
Reminder of Responsibility on World Environment Day: World Environment Day serves as a reminder of our duty to combat plastic pollution.

Plastic Recycling in the Future: Advanced recycling technologies provide new ways to efficiently recycle plastic trash.
Circular Economy Models: Adopting circular economy ideas can help reduce plastic waste and encourage sustainable resource use.
Campaigns for Education and Awareness: Raising awareness and educating the public about the consequences of plastic pollution can result in behavioural change.
Collaboration between Industries and Governments: Collaboration between industries and governments is crucial for developing comprehensive plastic pollution-reduction measures.

Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1930051#:~:text=WED%20is%20held%20annually%20on,marks%20the%20event's%2050th%20anniversary.