Let the Earth Breathe. Don't Suffocate It !

You and I have caused the current problem of plastic pollution that we face today. With our indiscriminate dumping of plastic on the streets, out of our vehicles, and in countless other ways, we have contributed to a crisis suffocating our planet. It's time to take responsibility for our actions and change before it's too late.

You and I have made living difficult for aquatic life, gradually wiping away their existence. The consequences of our plastic pollution are grave, as marine animals mistake plastic for food, leading to internal injuries, starvation, and death. The delicate balance of our oceans is being disrupted, threatening the very survival of marine ecosystems. It's a harsh reality that we must confront head-on.

But it's not just the marine life that suffers. The people in rural environments also bear the direct impact of plastic pollution. Many rural communities rely on natural resources for their livelihoods, such as fishing, farming, and tourism. With plastic waste infiltrating their surroundings, their income sources are under threat. Fishermen struggle to catch fish due to entanglement in plastic debris, and farmers find their land polluted, affecting crop growth and soil quality. The pristine landscapes that attract tourists become tarnished, leading to decreased visitors and economic opportunities.

The effects of plastic pollution on rural communities extend beyond the immediate economic implications. As plastic waste contaminates water sources, it seriously threatens public health. Access to clean drinking water becomes compromised, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and affecting the community's overall well-being. A cycle of harm perpetuates and intensifies if we do not take action.

A plastic bottle discarded carelessly is a future problem buried deeply on the surface.

If our heroes of the past acted this way, we would not have what we currently call Earth. Let's have a heart for the Earth, just as our ancestors did. In their limited knowledge, they were full of wisdom, and now, with an abundance of knowledge, we must strive to find the wisdom to protect our planet for future generations.

You and I must come together to find practical solutions to tackle this crisis. Suitable disposal of plastic waste is essential. We must prioritize recycling and support initiatives that promote the responsible use of plastic. Governments, businesses, and individuals must collaborate to implement sustainable practices and reduce the production and consumption of single-use plastics.

Education is also key in addressing the problem at its roots. However, you and I must raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic pollution; we can inspire others to take action. Encouraging behavioural changes, such as using reusable bags, bottles, and utensils, can significantly reduce plastic waste. It's a small step for us but a giant leap for the health of our planet.

Let's be assertive in our pursuit of change. You and I can make a difference, one conscious decision at a time. Embrace our power as individuals and collectively work towards a plastic-free future. The time to act is now for the sake of our Earth, the marine life, and the rural communities that rely on its resources.

In conclusion, the burden of plastic pollution falls upon us, and it's our responsibility to lighten that burden. Our actions today will determine the fate of our planet tomorrow. Let's not be blinded by convenience or short-sightedness. Instead, let's rise to the challenge and show the world we can be the change we wish to see. Let the Earth breathe freely, for you and I hold its future in our hands.

Remember, "A plastic bottle discarded carelessly is a future problem buried deeply on the surface." Let's act with wisdom and responsibility, ensuring that our legacy is one of environmental stewardship. Together, we can create a world where the beauty of nature thrives, rural communities thrive, and the Earth breathes with renewed vitality. Abisola GBENGA-MARTINS Auriane Koster, PhD, LEED Green Associate Oreoluwa Babajide YEKEEN, HABEEB OLAWALE Dapo Omolade Hybrid Group UNEP-WCMC UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre UN Environment Programme Environment Agency Plastic Recycling Abiodun Olakitan Valentine Ebikade