To demonstrate the magnitude of this global and local issue, “every year, we use up to 5 trillion disposable plastic bags,” and “nearly 50% of plastics used are single-use products such as bottles, plastic bags, packaging, straws, stirrers, spoons, and forks” (India Times). In particular, according to a 2016 survey by Statistics Korea, the amount of plastic consumed per capita in South Korea was 98.2 kg, which is the most in the world (even more than the US, with 97.7 kg per capita) (Kyunghyang Shinmun). 

The problem has recently come to light after, in 2017, China announced that it would not accept imports of plastics exported from other countries like South Korea, leading to South Korea’s plastic staying in the country and accumulating in landfills due to the recycling companies being unwilling to recycle the added plastic (Lim). Afterward, the nation faced the challenge of moving towards a more sustainable model of waste disposal and reduction of plastic, since plastic waste began to accumulate in the landfills and the streets. Also, in the rural areas without proper recycling systems, plastic (such as polyethylene that makes up vinyl) has continually been left in empty fields and cause problems with underground waterways, unable to be biologically broken down (Kim). These problems have highlighted the importance of sustainable waste disposal systems that not only preserve the ecosystem but also continue as long-term solutions.

Plastic waste has many consequences, due to its harmful chemicals, and one significant impact is pollution. The disposal of plastic can result in air and water pollution, which release toxic chemicals and microplastic that find their way into the ecosystem and its organisms, including humans. Therefore, many species of plants and animals are affected by the phenomena caused by improper disposal of plastic waste. 

One solution to this problem is to raise awareness about the saying “Reduce, reuse, and recycle," because, while it might not directly change the flow of plastic on a larger scale, it would break the cycle of plastic within our community. Working to reduce plastic would cut down on the amount of plastic consumed most directly, while other methods such as recycling and reusing have external costs and limitations. Reducing plastic can be done by using eco-friendly alternatives that can replace plastic products, such as reusable bottles instead of disposable ones, paper straws instead of plastic ones, and more. 

Based on this analysis, it seems like there are two options: watch the world change… or make change itself. Therefore, let’s all try to promote alternatives to plastic!