Americans use 14 billion plastic shopping bags each year. According to EarthDay.org, each year there are four trillion plastic bags used worldwide. Most of these plastic bags are discarded and end up clogging water ways and harming wildlife. Most plastic is not biodegradable and could remain in the environment for as long as 2,000 years. Scientist predict that by 2050 there will be more plastic than the weight of fish in the ocean.
A lot of supermarket chains are trying to do their part in saving the planet. With this knowledge, supermarkets like Giant Eagle are taking steps to become plastic free by 2025. I feel this is a step in the right direction. I find it easier shopping with a personal tote. It grants the ability to organize groceries how I see fit and makes for less trips to and from the car when unloading.
Aside from plastic bags, companies like Disney and Starbucks are making efforts to remove plastic straws. There are many dangers when it comes to plastic straws. Plastic straws, even when made with recyclable materials, are too lightweight for sorters and drop through sorting screens. Straws are doing major damage to our aquatic life. Straws make it into oceans and become ingested by the animals, often resulting in death. The use of a reusable straw can make a large impact on the environment. We only have one planet so we should all do our part in making it better.
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