The ever increasing population, along with the rapid urbanization and consumerism has led to millions of tonnes of plastic waste being generated, which has not been without its dire consequences – both on the environment and on human health. Microplastics are increasingly prevalent in our food and water, posing immense risk to our health – with growing evidence proving that ingestion of microplastics causes endocrine disruption, weight gain, insulin resistance, decreased reproductive health and even cancer.
The fight against plastic pollution begins with tomorrow’s leaders today.
Krish Keswani, 22, India
However, not all hope is lost. Many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and youth-led organizations in India are striving diligently to increase awareness about the adverse effects of plastics, organizing multiple clean up drives and urging governments and key stakeholders to follow through with the ban on single use plastics.
The UN Environmental Assembly and its member states vowed to implement a Global Treaty for Plastic Pollution by 2025. This treaty can very well be the guiding beacon for youth and pave the way forward for innovative yet sustainable solutions to overcoming the plastic crisis. Plastic pollution needs to be tackled with urgency and precise planning – treating it as a health emergency and not just an environmental one.
Youth and children need to play a pivotal role in ensuring governments and stakeholders stay true to their words. The fight against plastic pollution begins with tomorrow’s leaders today. The futures rests in the out hands, the hands of the youth – let’s come together as one and protect it from plastic.
