INTRODUCTION
Plastic has become omnipresent in our everyday lives, used for packaging our food, making our electronic devices, and more. Plastic pollution, commonly referred to as “plastic pollution,” results from the accumulation of plastic waste in our environment. It has detrimental consequences for the Earth, oceans, seas, and rivers, affecting wildlife, their habitats, and humans.
Recycling of plastic waste, a powerful weapon against climate change
Recycling is often considered a key solution to mitigate the environmental crisis. It provides an opportunity to give a second life to plastic materials and reduce the demand for raw materials. One of the major advantages of recycling is its ability to reduce our dependence on virgin resources. For example, recycling paper preserves forests, while recycling glass limits the extraction of non-renewable sand. By recycling plastic, we reduce the demand for oil, a precious resource often associated with geopolitical issues. Additionally, recycling contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The production of materials from virgin raw materials often generates a significant carbon footprint. By recycling, we minimize these emissions, thereby contributing to the fight against climate change. Recycling also has a significant impact on reducing pollution. By avoiding landfilling or incineration of waste, we limit the release of toxic substances into the air, soil, and water, which has positive effects on human health and environmental quality. Recycling should become a universal reflex for all.
Reducing plastic use, a second battle in the war against climate change
Given that plastic materials are not environmentally friendly, and that some plastics are not recyclable, an immediate reduction in their use is imperative. To achieve a circular economy and preserve the climate, it is essential to stop using certain plastics, such as Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polypropylene (PP), and Polystyrene (PS), which are difficult to recycle and harmful. For emerging African countries facing alarming plastic pollution, recycling may pose economic challenges, as some plastic packaging does not contain enough raw materials. Moreover, the complexity of certain products, composed of various types of different plastics, complicates the sorting required for recycling. To win the war against climate change and its effects, it is imperative to reduce plastic use and return to more sustainable methods, such as the traditional household basket.
CONCLUSION
If preserving the environment means protecting food production, preventing air and water pollution, providing for people’s needs, and safeguarding their health, it is essential to promote plastic recycling while advocating for a parallel reduction in its use. This ensures a victory against climate change and its effects.