The global plastic issue

The growing plastic production, especially with single use plastics, is one of the biggest environmental issues the modern world faces. 

As plastic waste increases, the ability to dispose of the plastic becomes more and more overwhelming for the world. As disposal methods and landfills become increasingly stretched, the overspill of the plastic waste is forced into the natural world. 

The fundamental problem we face today is the popularity of single use plastics. Products such as water bottles and plastic bags are only used for fleeting moments but remain on our planet for 100s of years. The production of these items must stop.  However, it will only stop once demand stops, or the worldwide plastic issue becomes so catastrophic the corporations are forced to swap for more environmentally-friendly products, at which point it may be too late. Whilst single plastic use remains a multi billion pound industry the latter is unlikely to change, so our buying habits must! 

Issue of plastic waste for our Wildlife

Plastic waste swarms our seas, and also litters our lands, killing sea life, birds and our land animals. According to studies, millions of animals are killed each year from plastics. Most deaths occur from wildlife being tangled into the plastic, however some animals die through consuming the plastics. 

Issue of plastic waste for humans and our children

A high proportion of  plastic waste ends up in the ocean. Rough seas corrode the plastic which results in plastic breakdown which is commonly referred to as microplastics. These microplastics become so small they end up in our water system. What are the long term effects on humans from plastic pollution in our natural world? Who knows, as studies suggest that only half of all plastics ever manufactured have been made in the last 15 years. This is a modern day issue with its true effects on human health and the planet being thus far unknown. We must do all we can to preserve the planet for our children and grandchildren.

What can you do to help?

There are several actions you can take. 

1. Stop buying single use plastics. Stop the supply and demand. Carry your own water bottle and buy reusable carry bags.
2. Put pressure on the corporate plastic producers to stop production.
3. Ensure you recycle all plastics within your possession. 
4. Pick up any plastics you find in your local villages, towns, cities, forests, beaches, parks, industrial estates, shopping centres, anywhere.

Green Paw’s Plastic Clean Up Project

Green Paw’s Plastic Clean Up Project will focus on litter picking and recycling of plastic waste from villages, towns, cities, forests, beaches, parks, industrial estates and shopping centres. We will be organising group meet ups for big plastic cleanups in locations in most need. Especially in areas of natural beauty and beaches. 

This project starts on 22nd February to 1st March 2021 with A Grand Week in Wales, where we will be organising 1000+ individuals/groups/families to collect at least 1 bag of litter/plastic across Wales. 

How do you get involved with A Grand Week in Wales?

Information on the ‘A Grand Week in Wales’

Information on the ‘The Grand Welsh Litterpick’ 

Donate to ‘The Grand Welsh Litterpick’