Topic Reading-Vol.3353-6/16/2021
Dear MEL Topic Readers,
Plastic pollution: take-out food is littering the oceans
There are millions of convenience stores all over the world selling items that are packed in plastic packages, containers, or wrappers. And most of them are still taken out in plastic bags. Also, food deliveries are becoming popular in many cities around the world having been fueled by the Covid-19 pandemic and funded by investors who want to jump on the bandwagon. But this business model also is creating more single-use plastic consumption.
According to a new study, scientists claim that eight out of 10 litters found around rivers, oceans, shorelines, and seafloor were made of plastic, and over 40% of the plastic litter was from take-out food and drinks. They are mostly single-use plastic bottles, food containers, wrappers, and even bags. If you look at European rivers, as much as 80% of the litter released into the ocean is plastic, including both pieces and single-use, like bottles, food packaging, and bags.
Unfortunately, today’s convenience and economy are unfriendly and unsustainable for the environment. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were agreed upon by all UN member states. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investments are becoming more influential in financial investment. Unfortunately, most politicians are paying more attention to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and business people are pursuing higher Return on Investment (ROI), both of which are creating more single-use plastic litter.
How soon will the world set higher priorities on reducing Single-Use Plastic (SUP)?
Enjoy reading the article and learn about what is threatening the rivers and oceans.
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