Only recently has been very apparent that Global warming is becoming a problem. The crisis is due to the fact that we need to use less plastic.

Global warming

Our world is warming increasingly because the landfill spots are now growing in size and are not bio-degrading within the lifetime of a person. This time frame is crucial as it sets the length in which it is good for products to go round in its life cycle and not clutter the Earth. When the plastic is taking longer to bio-degrade, it will pollute the Earth for longer. It will fill the air with Carbon Dioxide from the process of Decomposition. Carbon Dioxide absorbs all the heat rays which are IR (Infrared Rays) so the Earth stays warm.

The Carbon Cycle’s 4 processes

There are four processes of the Carbon cycle: Decomposition, Combustion, Respiration and Photosynthesis. Firstly, Decomposition is the process of the matter rotting away and giving off Carbon Dioxide as the cells breathe (carry out the process of respiration). Secondly, Combustion is the process of matter or gas burning to create heat and CO2. Thirdly, Respiration is the process of living organisms oxygen in and carbon dioxide out. Finally, Photosynthesis is the process in which converts Carbon Dioxide back into Oxygen through plants. Photosynthesis is the only process in the cycle that can reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Single-use plastics

In the UK, the quantity of plastics thrown away in the weekly garbage is most commonly a single-use plastic. Single-use plastics like the ones that wrap our salads and fruits in the supermarket are almost everywhere. Although these plastics keep our food clean and fresh, they pollute the world the most. Scientists have found that not many single-use-plastics are indeed recyclable. Therefore, the plastic and waste in landfill are drastically piling up. All the landfill will decompose and if it does so slowly, the air will become more polluted with CO2.

Effects of plastic pile up

Land and Sea are both affected greatly by plastic waste on Earth. Animals in the Oceans are getting poisoned from the chemicals in the plastics and microplastics. Whales found washed up on beaches have commonly been autopsied and found to be with a full stomach of plastic bags. Whilst, Polar bears have less ice to fish and get back home to because the ice is too thin. Predator numbers falling affect the food chains.

Reduce Global warming effects by lowering carbon dioxide levels

To help reduce the Global warming effect we can use less plastics. I have explored and researched a few simple ways to change your life to be greener. If you still have a good toothbrush, plastic bag, water bottle, or pen, still carry on to use it until it is finished before purchasing longer-lasting items.

Eco-friendly items to try:

1. Fabric/Tote bags – Fabric bags are a great alternative to plastic bags and a more durable when carrying items.

2. Bamboo toothbrush – Another alternative is a bamboo toothbrush, the toothbrush biodegrades up to 100 times faster than the average plastic toothbrush. The average toothbrush takes 400 years to biodegrade whilst a bamboo toothbrush takes up to 4-10 years to degrade and can also be compostable in a year.

3.Travel cutlery set (wooden) – In addition, you may also want to try and get yourself a nice and light wooden cutlery set for travels or everyday meals this ensures that less plastic cutlery will be used in takeaways.

4.Hydro Flask – You may also want to try and use a reusable bottle, the water from the tap is a fresh drink better than bottled water if filtered or served cold.

5. Refillable pens – If you are a stationery lover like me try getting pens that are refillable.

6. Plants – Plants are a great a source of oxygen and the more plants grown the more carbon dioxide is recycled. (High oxygen levels also help to increase brain productivity).