Understanding the Environmental Cost of Plastic Waste

Plastic waste has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of the 21st century. Plastics are incredibly durable and take hundreds, if not thousands, of years to break down naturally, leading to the accumulation of waste in landfills and natural environments. The majority of plastic produced is used once and then discarded, leading to an overwhelming amount of waste. This includes items like bottles, bags, packaging materials, and straws, all of which contribute to land and ocean pollution. Wildlife, including marine life, are especially affected, as many animals mistake plastic for food, leading to injury or death when they ingest or become tangled in it.

In addition to threatening animal populations, plastic waste also harms ecosystems. For example, plastics can break into smaller particles called microplastics, which can infiltrate water sources and enter the food chain. The production of plastic itself also causes environmental damage, as it relies heavily on fossil fuels and results in carbon emissions. Efforts to manage plastic waste have increased globally, from recycling initiatives to banning single-use plastics in some countries. While progress is being made, tackling plastic pollution requires a global shift in consumption patterns, better waste management, and increased support for alternative materials that are more sustainable and biodegradable.

SUMMARIZE SECTION

Summarize the reading in your own words or use the questions to help you explain the main points.

  1. Why is plastic waste such a major environmental issue?

  2. How does plastic pollution affect wildlife and ecosystems?

  3. What are some solutions for reducing plastic waste?

Your Summary: ________________________

PARAPHRASE THIS POINT

Say this sentence in fewer words:
“Plastic takes hundreds of years to break down and has a harmful impact on land, oceans, and wildlife.”

Your Sentence: ________________________

VOCABULARY SECTION

Microplastics – Tiny plastic particles that result from the breakdown of plastic waste, often harmful to wildlife and the environment.
Example: “Microplastics can be found in oceans and freshwater systems.”
Your Sentence: ________________________

 

Ecosystem – A community of living organisms interacting with each other and their environment.
Example: “Pollution can disrupt fragile ecosystems, threatening biodiversity.”
Your Sentence: ________________________

 

Biodegradable – Capable of being decomposed by natural processes, often referring to materials that break down safely in the environment.
Example: “Biodegradable bags are a sustainable alternative to plastic bags.”
Your Sentence: ________________________

 

Recycling – The process of converting waste materials into reusable materials to reduce the need for new resources.
Example: “Recycling helps conserve raw materials and reduces pollution.”
Your Sentence: ________________________

 

Fossil Fuels – Natural fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, that release carbon when burned and contribute to global warming.
Example: “Reducing the use of fossil fuels is important for combating climate change.”
Your Sentence: ________________________

QUOTE FROM THE READING

  • How does plastic waste affect wildlife and ecosystems?

  • Respond with a quote from the reading.

Your Thoughts: _____________________________

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