Introduction

Scientifically called polymers, plastics of which there are two main families, (thermosets and thermoplastics) are the cause of plastic pollution. Plastic pollution is the destruction or degradation of ecosystems and natural habitats by introducing plastic elements. 

The current state of plastic pollution

Since 1950, more than 9 billion tons of plastic have been produced. Every year, nearly 400 million tons of plastic are produced, of which 1/3 is only used once and 2/3 end up in the oceans. Thus, it is estimated that there are 32 million tonnes of plastic in the seas and oceans, and nearly 109 million in rivers. Unfortunately Africa, which produces only 7% of the world’s plastic, is the continent most affected by plastic pollution 

Causes of plastic pollution

There are several causes of plastic pollution. Namely the overproduction of single-use plastics or thermoplastics (thermoplastics contribute to 90% plastic waste), the overconsumption of plastic products, and the poor management of plastic waste (only around 10% of the plastics produced get recycled against nearly 90% dumped in nature)

Consequences of plastic pollution

Plastic pollution is the second biggest environmental threat to our planet after climate change, plastic is responsible for the emission of nearly 3.4% of greenhouse gasses which increase the crisis climate on the earth. Microplastics and nanoplastics are found in the air, in water and in food, causing for animals (54% of the marine mammal species have been entangled in or ingested plastic), fishing, agriculture, tourism and especially environmental problems. Through the loss of natural habitats, ecosystems and biodiversity, plastics cause cancer in humans, respiratory disorders, nutritional and reproductive problems in animals and also humans.

Solutions to plastic pollution

Promoting the circular economy (production-use-recycling) would solve the plastic crisis. Solutions includes

• Reduction of only-use and non-biodegradable plastics in favor of reusable bags, reusable plastic bottles.
•  For electronics, make sure to repair or upgrade/recycle the old item when you need something new,
• Use non-plastic utensils.
•  Promote biogas, and the use of plastic construction materials (tiles, cobblestones, chairs). 
• More importantly, promote the use of fuels based on recycled plastic waste (succeeded in Cameroon) instead of fossil fuels.  

Conclusion

The production of plastic in the world has doubled in 20 years and its waste could quadruple by 2050. Unfortunately, only 10% of the production of plastic is recycled, compared to nearly 90% dumped in nature and landfills. Therefore, it is URGENT to put our hand together to face this scourge, by reusing, recycling and diversifying our products. And especially by leaving a linear economy (Production use-discharge) to a circular economy.

LET’S ALL FIGHT AGAINST PLASTIC POLLUTION!!!