Effects of Single Use Plastic Packaging on the Environment

Packaging is one of the most important applications of plastics. In fact, about 40% of plastic materials worldwide are used in packaging applications. Plastics have contributed to creating a sustainable, hygienic, energy efficient, cost effective and friendly packaging system. Versatility of plastics has allowed creating an efficient pilfer proof, hygienic and cost-effective packaging of food products like milk, spices, edible oil, bread, confectioneries, rice, wheat flour, snack foods and various types of medicines. Plastics are used for packaging of toiletries, cosmetics, and host of other consumer products of daily and special purpose use required all – rich or poor in urban cities or in the villages. Despite all these benefits, plastics packaging in general, and plastic bags / carry bags – which are a part of the packaging system, are under the scanner. Plastics are blamed for series of health, safety, and environmental problems. Nonbiodegradability of plastics is attributed towards causing waste management problems and choking of the drains in urban cities.