We all know plastic bags are really bad for the environment, but sometimes it's hard to fully understand the impact they have when they wash into the ocean.
Well, here's a way to help you comprehend the effects of plastic on the ocean: plastic bags, bottles and nets have created a "plastic stew" twice the size of Texas in the sea, which is growing due to constant dumping of plastics. That's right, twice the size of the US state of Texas!
Mercola.com reports "Plastic Bag Island" is in the Pacific Ocean, and this floating mass of rubbish is damaging the wildlife that call this patch of water home. In just one area, 1 million seabirds, 100,000 marine mammals, and countless fish have died after coming into contact with the toxic plastics.
And it's not just animals being affected. If a human were to eat a fish that had ingested toxic chemicals, then those chemicals could be passed onto us.
Things you can do to minimise your own contribution to Plastic Bag Island:
- Instead of buying bottled water daily, try using a refillable bottle that is made from a light metal or a certified-safe plastic. They last for years and are perfectly hygienic. Your local health food store should stock them.
- When you can, opt for natural foods that aren't packaged in plastic. Have a piece of fruit instead of a packet of chips. Not only will it be healthier for you, it's one less piece of plastic that ends up in landfill.
- Don't forget the green bags when your family does the grocery shopping. Try sticky-taping a reminder to the steering wheel of Mum's or Dad's car. And when you're out scoping for a bargain, there are some seriously cute reusable shopping bags around, minus the slightly offensive supermarket green! Try ChipChop.com.au.
- Spread the word! Forward this article onto your friends by hitting the "send to a friend" button below. Power in numbers, people!
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