A recently released study by the United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, concludes that plastic pollution is expected to double by 2030.
The study is released at a time when action to stop environmental damage is intensifying around the world.
To reduce plastic pollution, the UN agency proposes that fossil fuels be replaced by renewable energy sources. UNEP believes it is possible to reverse this crisis, provided there is political will and urgent action.
The report shows that in 2015, greenhouse gas emissions caused by plastics were equivalent to 1.7 giga tons of CO2. But by 2050, emissions are projected to increase to 6.5 giga tons.
The study authors point out that some alternatives to the plastics crisis are also harmful to the environment, including biodegradable plastics, which cause "a similar threat to conventional plastics."
Inger Andersen, UNEP's executive director, says the survey makes "strong scientific arguments about the urgency of acting to protect the oceans.
Statistical data indicate that plastics account for 85% of marine litter. But by 2040, this volume is expected to triple. Estimates indicate that each year up to 37 million tons of garbage end up in the oceans, representing 50kg of plastic for every meter of coastline.
Because of this, shellfish, birds, turtles, and mammals face serious risks of suffocation, poisoning, behavioral problems, and starvation.
The damage also affects human health. The study reveals that the human body is also vulnerable to plastic pollution, as particles are ingested while consuming fish, drinks and even common salt. Microplastics can also penetrate the pores and be inhaled when they are suspended in the air.
The report also reveals the impacts to the economy: by 2040, there could be an annual financial risk of $100 billion to businesses if governments require industry to cover the costs of waste treatment.
UNEP believes it is crucial to address the global pollution crisis as a whole. The Plastics Pollution Report is released just days before the start of the UN Climate Change Conference, COP-26.
UN News