With the industrial revolution scientists were able to invent new products. As a result of this, scientists Eric Fawcett and Reginald Gibson were able to experiment with some chemicals and high pressures to invent polythene.
In the past, polythene was regarded as a wonderful creation but now people are aware that polythene has become a major environmental issue.
There are many types of polythene. But almost all of these don’t decay. They accumulate in the environment and create many other problems
Polythene bags are not expensive. A medium sized bag will cost around two rupees. Anyone can buy polythene bags easily. Therefore, at present the use of polythene has increased and with it environmental pollution has increased too. Many people are in the habit of carelessly throwing polythene bags and polluting the environment. This often leads to problems like land pollution and land infertility. Polythene also blocks sewage outlets and sources of water.
Rain water which has collected in polythene bags provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Unfortunately, we cannot burn polythene. Burning polythene creates many harmful gases and substances. Many animals die after eating polythene as it cannot be digested. Nobody thinks of the ill effects of polythene. They only think about their convenience.
We should try to reduce the use of polythene. Taking reusable bags when you go marketing is a simple way of reducing the use of polythene. Recycling polythene is another solution.
If we protect the environment, the environment will protect us. Therefore, we should minimise the use of polythene.
Sethmi Sahanya
Grade 11
MR/Thelijjawila Royal College
Thelijjawila