According to UN research, nearly 8 million to 10 tons of plastic are found in the ocean alone every year, which is deteriorating the environment
Sumaiya Khanzada
The water is a fundamental and essential requirement for human life on Earth. Water not only fulfills the basic needs of humans, but also plays a crucial role in agriculture and other sectors. Through the marine resources, it contributes to the global economy and provides people with various professions. The rivers and oceans are the largest ecosystem in the world, regulating the environment and protecting the climate. Not only this, but we also obtain 40% of the oxygen from the ocean, which is a vital component for our life. It also absorbs 20% of the annual CO2, helping to protect our environment. We cannot even imagine life without the ocean; it is a great blessing from Allah.
However, irresponsible human behavior is severely damaging this blessing. According to UN research, nearly 8 million to 10 tons of plastic are found in the ocean alone every year, which is deteriorating the environment. Plastic waste makes up 80% of all marine pollution. Research states that, by 2050, plastic will likely outweigh all fish in the sea. In the last ten years, we have produced more plastic products than in the previous century.
Read: Ocean plastic pollution an overview: data and statistics
Read: Plastic pollution damages marine life and threatens human health. Many diseases that were once rare are now becoming more common, and they are having a severe impact on human health. Not only this, but the marine animals also inhale an extra 40% of CO2 annually, which is harmful to their health and affects their well-being, leading to their death. As a result, the fish trade is decreasing, and it is impacting the economy. If this continues, we will gradually be deprived of this blessing, and human life on Earth will become increasingly difficult.
To protect our planet from this hardship and make life easier, we need to adopt certain actions to protect it.
Read: Pollution of ocean: Causes, Effects and Prevention
Read: Reduce the use of plastic: We should minimize the use of plastic in our lives as much as possible.
Recycle garbage: We need to recycle and use waste, and organize campaigns and sessions to raise awareness among people, along with implementing policies.
If we follow these strategies, we can create a healthier planet for future generations and ensure it is protected for them.
____________
Sumaiya Khanzada is undergraduate student at department of anthropology and archaeology, University of Sindh Jamshoro
