Will Plastic Remain on Earth, or Will We?

Spacetospace April 13, 2025Space Science

The diseases caused by plastic raise the question: how can we rid ourselves of this massive disaster? This has become a major challenge across the world, with microplastics emerging as the biggest concern. Plastic has reached every vein of our bodies. It is not just accumulating as waste along roadsides but is also settling in various organs of our bodies. We must understand that plastic is extremely dangerous to human life, and our well-being lies in freeing ourselves from it.

Nowadays, plastic is everywhere. It’s in our cars, clothes, food packaging, and even in our homes and bloodstreams. Along with the challenges of waste management, plastic contributes significantly to global warming by emitting large amounts of carbon dioxide. To create a circular economy for plastic, it is necessary to consider every stage of the product’s life—from production to disposal—while trying to keep useful plastic within the economy and as far away from the environment as possible.

Impact of Plastic on the Planet

Plastic is widespread across our planet. The very qualities that make plastic so useful—mainly its durability—also make it harmful to our health and the environment. Plastic is not biodegradable, meaning it does not decompose in the ecosystem. Instead, it breaks down into tiny fragments and eventually becomes microplastic. Microplastic is any plastic piece smaller than 5 millimeters, though many are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Plastic is also a major contributor to climate change. As a result, plastic is destroying our planet and damaging our health.

Solving the Problem

Given today’s needs, becoming less dependent on plastic is one of the most difficult steps. The good news is that even small changes can make a big impact. Every small change matters! Here are some ways you can reduce your use of plastic—and help ensure that it’s not a matter of “Plastic or Us” on this planet:

Instead of using disposable plastic bottles, carry a refillable water bottle. Use your own utensils when going out, and take your own containers from home to pack food at hotels or restaurants.

In your kitchen, choose glass or metal containers for food storage. They last indefinitely and are more environmentally sustainable than plastic.

Use wax wraps instead of plastic bags—they are widely available in stores.

Stop using plastic grocery bags. Look for bags made from natural fibers like cotton or hemp—new or old.

If you still rely on plastic, don’t throw it away. Plan to replace it with a better alternative once its lifespan ends.

Recycling plastic is also a major step toward solving this issue.

#April13#Will Plastic Remain on Earth, or Will We?#space science# spacetospace