REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS AS A SOLUTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

Abstract

The environment is a key factor in preserving the life and health of animals. One of the threats to the environment is plastic bags. Plastic bags have become a ubiquitous part of modern life, but their convenience comes at a significant environmental cost. Made from non-renewable resources such as petroleum, these bags are designed for single use, often thrown away after just a few minutes of use. Their lightness makes it easy for them to avoid waste management systems, resulting in widespread pollution of ecosystems around the world. Plastic bags can take hundreds of years to decompose, turning into microplastics that pollute soil, waterways, and oceans. Marine life in particular is severely affected because the animals swallow or become entangled in plastic debris, resulting in injury or death. In addition, the production and disposal of plastic bags contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change. The cumulative environmental impact of plastic bags highlights the urgent need for sustainable alternatives and reduced consumption.
The article discusses the role of reusable shoppers in the context of reducing the level of environmental pollution caused by the use of disposable plastic bags. The ecological, social and economic significance of the introduction of shoppers into the everyday life of the population is analyzed. The results of research on the impact of polyethylene on the environment are presented and the importance of switching to environmentally friendly alternatives is emphasized. The author emphasizes that the conscious use of reusable bags is part of the global trend of sustainable development.