Plastics are synthetic materials that are widely used in many industries due to their versatility, durability, and low cost of production. It comes in many different types, each with unique properties and characteristics.

Plastics can be used for,

Packaging: It is used for food packaging, medical packaging, and shipping containers.

1.     Construction: It is used for piping, insulation, roofing, and flooring.

1.   Automotive: It is used for car parts such as dashboards, bumpers, and interior trim.

1.   Electronics: It is used for computer housings, phone cases, and other electronic components.

1.    Medical: It is used for medical devices such as syringes, IV bags, and prosthetics.

1.  Consumer goods: Plastics are used in the manufacturing of many consumer goods such as toys, furniture, and appliances.

Due to the mass production, use and disposal of plastics, there is a significant impact on the Earth’s environment. Through pollution, waste ends up in landfills and oceans which can cause land and water degradation and wildlife harm. Furthermore, it also leads to climate change due to the large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions its production and disposal causes.

What can we do prevent this situation from escalating further?

Some actions taken by the government of Sri Lanka include:

•  In 2018 Sri Lanka implemented a ban on single-use plastics.
• Launched several public education campaigns to raise awareness and encourage individuals to adopt more sustainable practices.
• Organized several beach clean-up campaigns in partnership with local communities, NGOs, and private sector organizations.

Established a network of recycling centers across the country to collect and process plastic waste.

•  MAS Foundation For Change:

Introduced Sri Lanka’s first floating trap device that is used as a barrier for waste flowing into the ocean. This device allows the collection of over 65,000kg of waste that is prevented from entering the oceans and is distributed for recycle and reuse.