.png)
Sustainable packaging and plastic regime can't co-exist at a time. We live in an era when sustainable packaging is mandatory to save the planet. The term sustainability is itself a buzzword for many. Sustainability is using resources in such an efficient way that we don't face scarcity of resources in the future. Our demand should not compromise the need of the future generation. After all, we don't own this planet; we lease it to the next generation. Eco-friendly packaging is the only way to sustainable development.
Why is plastic packaging a threat?
We can't reverse the harm done by plastic. All we can do is switch to sustainable packaging.
The reason to discuss this matter lies in the facts mentioned below.
Despite plastic being toxic to the environment, plastic production has increased exponentially since 1950. There are already claims of doubling the rate of production by 2050. Now, think of the environmental problem it will create. That's why the packaging industry should be redesigned.
Over half of the plastic on the planet has been manufactured in the last 15 years.
Every year, around 8 billion tons of plastic waste contaminate the oceans. Plastic enters the ocean from coastal regions.
What's more devastating is that plastic waste is non-biodegradable. Hence, it is not broken down and remains unaltered for a long time contaminating water bodies.
Plastic waste is highly toxic to aquatic life and stimulates the growth of pathogens in water, endangering the lives of many marine animals.
Owing to its non-biodegradable nature, plastic sinks to the sea bottom and lie there for years. Plastic forms sediment at the bottom, blocking resources for bottom-dwelling plants and threatening the extinction of exotic sea fauna.
Plastic is fragmented by sea waves and sun rays in the ocean to form microplastic. It is highly hazardous for marine life.
Alternative to Plastic
For these reasons, Plastic packaging is a big no to avoiding climate change. Plastic usage should be terminated to meet the required Eco- friendly measures. Packaging companies can switch to sustainable packaging.
There are several ways to sustainable packaging. For instance, the packaging sector should use eco-friendly materials such as recycled paper for packaging. Paper bag is reusable, recyclable, and biodegradable in the long run. It also solves the problem of animal waste, turning waste paper into a recycled paper bag. It is an excellent alternative to plastic.
Conclusion
It's high time to seek sustainable packaging approaches in day-to-day product packaging. Plastic pollution has already done much harm to the planet. The damage is evident in climate change. Hence, we should switch to Eco-friendly packaging means. The packaging industry is moving toward recycled paper usage for product packaging. It aids in recycling, and paper is also biodegradable. Unlike plastic, the paper doesn't pile up at the sea bottom. Biodegradable packaging keeps an eye on sustainability in the long run.
Comments