PLASTIC DOESN’T DISAPPEAR, NEITHER DOES ITS DANGER

Did you know that plastic has now polluted almost every corner of the environment; from the air we breathe, the water we drink, to the soil where we grow our food? In fact, recent studies have found microplastics in the human body, including in the lungs, blood, and even the brain. Yes, our brain!

Why should we be concerned? Is plastic really that harmful?

Plastic pollution is not a new issue. It has been discussed for decades. However, the amount of plastic produced and discarded continues to increase each year, and the uncontrolled disposal cycle has turned plastic into a silent threat to our health and survival.

This year, on 6 June 2025, we celebrate World Environment Day with the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution.” This theme calls on all of us, as consumers, educators, students, policymakers, and communities to take immediate action, as the plastic problem has yet to show any signs of resolution.

How are we affected?

• Plastics can take hundreds of years to degrade. Along the way, they break into smaller pieces that pollute our ecosystems.
• Microplastics enter our food chain through seafood, drinking water, even the air we breathe.
• The long-term health risks are still under study, but scientists link microplastics to inflammation, hormone disruption, and possible neurological effects.

 

What can we do about it?

• Reduce single-use plastics. Bring your own bags to the market, avoid plastic water bottles, and use eco-friendly food containers.
• Recycle properly. Make sure waste is separated correctly to enable effective recycling.
• Educate and raise awareness. We all have a role to play in educating those around us; starting at home, in the workplace, and within our communities.
• Support greener policies. Urge leaders and policymakers to introduce regulations that reduce plastic use and promote innovative alternative materials.

 

Small changes, when done collectively, can lead to powerful impact.

Let us celebrate World Environment Day with real action, not just words. For the earth, for the future of our children, and for our own health. Let’s beat plastic pollution. Not tomorrow. Today!

 

Dr. Rozaini Abdullah

Senior Lecturer

Department of Environmental and Occupational Health

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Universiti Putra Malaysia

Date of Input: 04/06/2025 | Updated: 03/07/2025 | nadia_rahman